🗺️ Basic Information
Line Name: Tobu Kameido Line
Operator: Tobu Railway
Total Distance: approx. 3.4 km
Stations: 5 (Kameido – Hikifune)
Connections: JR Sobu Line (Kameido) / Tobu Skytree Line (Hikifune)
Opened: 1904 (Meiji 37)
Travel Time: about 9 minutes end to end
Train Type: Local service only (all stations stop)
📜 History & Background
The Tobu Kameido Line opened in 1904 as the “Kameido Tramway,” a small local light railway linking Kameido and Hikifune.
It was later purchased and modernized by Tobu Railway, evolving into the convenient urban line it is today.
Freight transport once operated here, but the route now serves mainly as a community commuter line for local residents.
Urban redevelopment has progressed steadily, improving station areas and neighborhood environments.
🌟 Highlights (Advantages)
✅ 1. Compact Local Line Close to Central Tokyo
All stations lie within Sumida and Koto wards, offering walkable access to schools, shopping, and workplaces.
✅ 2. Direct Transfers to Major Lines
Connects to the JR Sobu Line at Kameido and the Tobu Skytree Line at Hikifune, providing smooth access to both central Tokyo and suburban areas.
✅ 3. Traditional Downtown Atmosphere
Areas like Kameido Jūsan-ken Street and Mukojima retain the warmth, friendliness, and energy of Tokyo’s classic “shitamachi” culture.
✅ 4. Frequent Service, Short Wait Times
Even during daytime hours, trains operate roughly every 10 minutes — reliable for commuting and daily errands.
⚠️ Points to Note (Disadvantages)
❌ 1. Very Short Line
At only 3.4 km, the line functions mainly as a connector; transfers are essential for longer travel.
❌ 2. No Direct Access to Major Terminals
Transfers are required to reach large hubs such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Shinagawa.
❌ 3. Aging Facilities
While the retro feel is part of its charm, barrier-free improvements are still in progress.
🧺 Living Environment
🚃 Transportation: ★★★☆☆ – Easy access to central Tokyo, though transfers are required
🏬 Shopping: ★★★★☆ – Kameido offers strong retail options; Hikifune area is undergoing redevelopment
🌳 Nature: ★★★☆☆ – Few large parks, but riverside and walking paths nearby
👨👩👧👦 Child-Friendly: ★★★★☆ – Many nursery schools and elementary schools; relatively safe neighborhoods
🛡️ Safety: ★★★★☆ – Calm residential zones with good community atmosphere
🏠 Real Estate Perspective (as of 2025)
💴 Average Rent
Kameido: 1R ￥90,000–￥110,000 / 2LDK ￥150,000–￥200,000 — Direct to JR Sobu Line, popular with ongoing redevelopment
Komurai: 1R ￥70,000–￥90,000 / 2LDK ￥130,000–￥170,000 — Quiet residential area within walking distance to the Skytree
Hikifune: 1R ￥80,000–￥100,000 / 2LDK ￥140,000–￥180,000 — Increasingly attractive with new commercial spaces
🏘 Housing Trends
Condominiums and rental apartments dominate, with new high-rise towers under construction near major stations.
Redeveloped public housing and UR properties are increasing around Hikifune, offering well-planned urban living.
Some older wooden homes and former small factories still remain, giving each neighborhood its own unique character.
🎯 Best Suited For
✅ People who enjoy compact, walkable city living
✅ Those who love traditional “shitamachi” culture and local shopping streets
✅ Short-distance commuters using JR or Tobu lines
✅ Renters seeking cost-effective options in central Tokyo without skyrocketing land prices
📌 Summary
The Tobu Kameido Line is a small but vital local railway rooted in Tokyo’s downtown culture. 🚋
Though short in distance, it plays an important role as a connector to major lines, balancing urban convenience, affordability, and local charm.
A perfect choice for residents who value easy access, friendly neighborhoods, and a relaxed Tokyo lifestyle✨