Kameido Station serves as a local transit hub in eastern Koto Ward, offering access to both the JR Sobu Line and the Tobu Kameido Line.
The area blends nostalgic downtown atmosphere with newly developed commercial facilities, making it popular as an affordable yet comfortable place to live.
Compared to neighboring Kinshicho, Kameido has a calmer ambiance, with rich shopping street culture and long-loved local gourmet spots still thriving.
🏛 1. Basic Information & Area Overview
Location: 5-chome, Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Rail Lines:
JR Chuo–Sobu Line (Local)
Tobu Kameido Line (local line linking Kameido and Hikifune)
Opened: December 9, 1894 (Meiji 27)
Key Characteristics of the Kameido Area
A mix of traditional downtown charm and newly redeveloped commercial spaces
Functions as a local terminal for eastern Koto Ward
Calmer and more community-focused compared to nearby Kinshicho, with many local shops and shopping streets
🕰 2. Historical Highlights
Opened in the Meiji era as a station on the Sobu Railway, becoming a hub for local commerce and distribution
Connected to the Tobu Kameido Line in the early Showa period, promoting residential and commercial growth
Home to historic sites like Kameido Umeyashiki and Kameido Tenjin Shrine, preserving strong Edo-period ambience
Long-loved local foods, such as Kameido gyoza and kuzumochi, remain iconic favorites
🌟 3. Merits of Living in Kameido
✅ ① Convenient Transportation
Direct access to Akihabara, Ochanomizu, and Shinjuku via the JR Sobu Line
Easy transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line at Kinshicho for Otemachi and Shibuya
The Tobu Kameido Line provides simple access to Hikifune and Tokyo Skytree
✅ ② Vibrant Shopping Street Culture
Traditional shopping areas like Kameido Juusanken Street and the redeveloped commercial center Kameido Clock
Many local chains, individual stores, and long-standing shops make daily shopping easy
Generally affordable prices help keep daily living costs low
✅ ③ A Popular Gourmet Destination
Home to nationally known specialties like Kameido Gyoza and Funabashiya Kuzumochi
Numerous restaurants: yakiniku, ramen, izakaya, diners, and more
Perfect for food lovers and people who enjoy eating out or bar-hopping
✅ ④ Calm Atmosphere & Good Relative Safety
Less nightlife than Kinshicho, making residential areas quieter
Shopping streets and residential areas are close, with a community feel that enhances safety
⚠️ 4. Demerits of Living in Kameido
❌ ① Only Local Trains Stop at the Station
Sobu Line rapid trains skip Kameido, making travel slightly slower than from Kinshicho
Transfers at Akihabara or other stations may be required depending on destination
❌ ② Mix of New and Old Streetscapes
Newer commercial buildings stand alongside older structures, resulting in limited visual consistency
Some narrow alleys and cluttered streets require attention when walking at night
❌ ③ Limited Parks & Green Spaces
Few large parks within walking distance
While Kameido Central Park and Kameido Tenjin's ponds exist, the area isn’t known for abundant greenery
🧺 5. Daily Convenience Summary (for Mobile Users)
Transport: Good access to central Tokyo & the Skytree area via Sobu + Tobu lines
Shopping: Gyomu Super, Life, Aeon, 100-yen shops, many drugstores
Dining: A paradise for gyoza, ramen, yakiniku, izakaya, and other classic local foods
Medical: Local clinics near the station; Bokuto Hospital nearby for added security
Nature: Some parks/shrine ponds, but overall fewer green spaces
Safety: Calmer and safer atmosphere compared to lively Kinshicho
🏠 6. Real Estate Overview (as of 2024)
💴 Monthly Rent Price Range
Studio / 1K: ¥80,000–¥95,000
1LDK–2DK: ¥110,000–¥140,000
2LDK–: Around ¥150,000–¥200,000
Generally more affordable than Kinshicho and considered excellent value given the access to central Tokyo.
Housing Features
Around the station are many low- to mid-rise apartments and older buildings typical of a classic downtown neighborhood
Newer and high-rise apartments are increasing around the Kameido Clock redevelopment area
Housing types range widely, from units for singles to family-oriented properties
🎯 7. Who Is Kameido Ideal For?
Those who want a warm, local downtown community atmosphere
Singles and families seeking convenience while avoiding Kinshicho’s busyness
Food lovers who enjoy exploring local restaurants and drinking spots
Commuters working in Akihabara, Ochanomizu, or Shinjuku via the Sobu Line
People wanting affordable living while staying close to central Tokyo
📌 8. Summary
Kameido Station is a neighborhood filled with history, culture, and everyday charm—truly embodying Tokyo’s classic downtown appeal.
With two convenient rail lines and ongoing redevelopment around the station, the area offers strong potential for the future.
It strikes an excellent balance for those who want the convenience of nearby Kinshicho but prefer living in a calmer, more local environment.
For people seeking good value, comfort, and authentic local character, the Kameido area is a highly recommended place to live.