Tabata Station offers access to both the JR Yamanote Line and the Keihin-Tohoku Line, making it convenient for commuting to Ueno and Tokyo.
The area is known as a quiet residential district, and the nearby large rail yard also makes it a popular spot among railway enthusiasts.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Location: Higashi-Tabata 1-chome, Kita Ward, Tokyo
Rail Lines:
JR Yamanote Line
JR Keihin-Tohoku Line
Opened: November 1, 1896
Features:
Located at the northern end of the Yamanote Line, close to Ueno and Nippori.
The south side of the station hosts the massive Tabata Rail Yard, attracting train fans from around Japan.
🕰 Historical Highlights
From its opening, the station played an important role as a major railway hub.
In the Taisho and early Showa periods, the area was home to many writers and artists, known collectively as the “Tabata Literary Village.”
🌟 2. What’s Good (Merits)
✅ ① A Calm and Comfortable Residential Area
Compared to other Yamanote Line stations, the neighborhood feels quiet and down-to-earth.
With no large entertainment districts nearby, the area maintains good safety and a relaxing atmosphere.
✅ ② Excellent Access to Ueno & Tokyo
Served by both the Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tohoku Line.
Extremely convenient: 4 minutes to Ueno, about 10 minutes to Tokyo Station.
✅ ③ Beautiful Views from the Hillside
The terrain around the station is elevated, offering views of the Tokyo Skytree and central Tokyo from certain spots.
Perfect for pleasant walks on sunny days.
✅ ④ A Hidden Railway-Lover’s Spot
From the Tabata Rail Yard, you can watch Shinkansen and limited express trains come and go.
The nearby Tabata Literary Village Museum appeals to fans of culture and history.
⚠️ 3. What’s Not So Good (Demerits)
❌ ① Limited Shopping Options
There are convenience stores and small supermarkets, but no large shopping malls.
For fashion and major shopping, you’ll need to visit other nearby stations.
❌ ② Station Layout Can Be Inconvenient
Only one ticket gate, making east–west access slightly inconvenient.
Some elevators are far from exits, so barrier-free access is not perfect.
❌ ③ Many Hills and Slopes
The station area has significant elevation differences, especially on the east side.
Walking and cycling can be physically demanding.
🧺 4. Daily Convenience Summary
Transportation: Easy access to Ueno and Tokyo via the Yamanote & Keihin-Tohoku lines
Shopping: Supermarkets (Maruetsu Petit, Top) and convenience stores available
Food: Local Chinese restaurants, diners, cafés; few chain restaurants
Medical: Clinics and dental offices are scattered around; major hospitals are in Komagome or Ueno
Education/Childcare: Preschools and elementary schools available; quiet and safe environment
Nature/Culture: Tabata Literary Village Museum, Tabata Park, scenic hillside walkways
🏠 5. Real Estate Overview (as of 2024)
💴 Rent Price Range (per month)
Studio–1K：￥85,000–￥105,000
1LDK–2DK：￥115,000–￥145,000
2LDK and larger：￥150,000–￥210,000
※ Reasonably priced for a Yamanote Line neighborhood, offering excellent cost performance.
🏘 Housing Characteristics
Many low- to mid-rise apartment buildings, including family-friendly units.
Hillside areas feature condominiums with impressive views.
Redevelopment has brought more newly built and renovated properties, popular among young residents and DINKs.
🎯 6. Who Tabata Station is Perfect For
Those who want to live on the Yamanote Line but prefer a quiet environment
People working in Ueno, Tokyo, or Shinagawa
Families seeking a peaceful residential area for raising children
Fans of trains, literature, or local history
Anyone looking for a cost-effective, underrated station to call home
📌 7. Summary
Tabata Station offers:
Yamanote Line convenience × a calm residential atmosphere × cultural and historical charm.
It may not be flashy, but it is a comfortable, livable, and well-balanced area—highly recommended for everyone from singles to families.