🏛 Basic Information & Overview
Line Name: Yokohama Seaside Line (Kanazawa Seaside Line)
Operator: Yokohama Seaside Line Co., Ltd. (Third-sector company, majority owned by the City of Yokohama)
Type: New Transit System (automated, rubber-tired guideway)
Opened: 1989 (Heisei 1)
Length: Approx. 10.6–10.8 km
Route: Shin-Sugita (connected to JR Negishi Line) – Kanazawa-Hakkei (connected to Keikyu Line)
Stations: 14
📜 History & Background
・Opened in 1989 as part of Yokohama’s Bay Area redevelopment plan.
・Covers the coastal Kanazawa district, which previously lacked rail access.
・Operates as a fully automated, driverless system — a model of next-generation urban transit.
・In 2019, the extension to Kanazawa-Hakkei Station was completed, enhancing access to the Keikyu Line and greater Yokohama area.
🚉 Major Stations & Highlights
Shin-Sugita: Connection to JR Negishi Line / gateway to Isogo district
Nanbu-Shijō: Near Yokohama South Market / food and logistics hub
Torihama: Closest to Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside
Namiki-Chūō: Near Kanazawa Ward Office / primarily residential
Hakkeijima: Direct access to Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise 🎡
Kanazawa-Hakkei: Connection with Keikyu Line / easy access to Miura and central Yokohama
🌟 Key Merits (Advantages)
✅ 1. Covers All the Bay Area Hotspots
Connects major destinations such as Sea Paradise, the outlet mall, and the wholesale market — ideal for both shopping and leisure.
✅ 2. Quiet and Safe Automated Operation
Smooth and silent travel thanks to driverless control and advanced monitoring systems.
✅ 3. Links Residential and Industrial Zones
Namiki, Kouura, and Fukuura areas combine residential blocks, schools, and factories — perfect for commuters and students alike.
✅ 4. Beautiful Ocean Views
Many sections run alongside Tokyo Bay, offering relaxing sea views that make the ride enjoyable even for locals.
⚠️ Points to Note (Demerits)
❌ 1. Fares Are Slightly Higher
For its short length, the fare is relatively expensive (e.g., around ￥320 from Shin-Sugita to Kanazawa-Hakkei).
❌ 2. Limited Service During Certain Hours
Trains run roughly every 10–15 minutes during midday and late evenings, so timing matters.
❌ 3. Transfers Required for Central Tokyo
While it connects easily to JR and Keikyu lines, reaching the city center still requires a transfer.
🧺 Living Environment (Ease of Living)
Transportation Access: ★★★☆☆ – Convenient connections via JR and Keikyu, but transfers required for Tokyo
Shopping: ★★★★☆ – Excellent retail access: outlet malls, bayside facilities, and markets
Nature & Scenery: ★★★★★ – Ocean views, seaside parks, and Sea Paradise nearby 🐬
Education & Childcare: ★★★★☆ – Family-friendly neighborhoods with schools along the line
Safety: ★★★★☆ – Calm, well-maintained residential areas
🏠 Real Estate Perspective (as of 2025)
💴 Average Rent (Approximate Range)
Shin-Sugita: ￥65,000–￥80,000 / ￥110,000–￥150,000 (Excellent for commuting via JR)
Torihama / Namiki: ￥55,000–￥70,000 / ￥100,000–￥130,000 (Quiet residential zones with good shopping access)
Hakkeijima: ￥60,000–￥80,000 / ￥110,000–￥140,000 (Resort-style living near the coast)
Kanazawa-Hakkei: ￥60,000–￥85,000 / ￥120,000–￥160,000 (Direct Keikyu access, very convenient for daily life)
※ Prices vary by building age, distance from station, and amenities.
🏘 Housing Trends & Area Character
・Namiki-Chūō / Kouura / Torihama: Family-friendly districts with public housing and greenery.
・Around Hakkeijima: Calm seaside atmosphere, ideal for weekend leisure and relaxed living.
・Kanazawa-Hakkei: Strong transport hub, urban amenities, and convenient lifestyle balance.
🚃 Access & Operation
Main Transfers: Shin-Sugita (JR Negishi Line) / Kanazawa-Hakkei (Keikyu Main Line)
Travel Time: Entire line approx. 25–30 minutes
Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes (varies by time of day)
1-Day Ticket: Adult ￥680 / Child ￥340 (approx.)
🎯 Best Suited For
✅ Those who love ocean views and the coastal lifestyle 🌊
✅ Families or seniors who want to live comfortably without relying on cars
✅ People working in Yokohama or Kawasaki seeking peaceful, well-connected housing
✅ Shoppers and leisure-seekers who enjoy outlets, markets, and seaside attractions
📌 Summary
The Yokohama Seaside Line perfectly embodies “Bay Area living” — balancing scenic beauty, safety, and convenience.
Though not a direct line to Tokyo, it offers calm residential zones, access to major leisure spots, and smooth daily commuting.
Ideal for families, working professionals, and anyone who values both urban access and coastal relaxation.