The Tokyo Metro Namboku Line runs from Meguro to Akabane-Iwabuchi, connecting central Tokyo from south to north.
With through-service to both the Tokyu Meguro Line and the Saitama Railway, it offers seamless travel from Kanagawa → Tokyo → Saitama.
As one of Tokyo’s newer subway lines, it stands out for its safety, comfort, and calm residential environments, making it a highly popular choice for daily commuters and residents.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Official Name: Tokyo Metro Namboku Line
Operator: Tokyo Metro
Line Color: Emerald Green
Total Length: 21.3km
Number of Stations: 19
Terminals: Meguro Station (Shinagawa Ward) – Akabane-Iwabuchi Station (Kita Ward)
Through Services
South: Tokyu Meguro Line (Motosumiyoshi, Hiyoshi, Shin-Yokohama)
North: Saitama High-Speed Railway (Urawa-Misono)
📜 Key Historical Points
1991: First section opened (Nagatacho → Akabane-Iwabuchi)
2000: Entire line completed (Meguro → Nagatacho)
Designed with full barrier-free access and platform doors at every station
One of the few lines that run primarily north–south through the center of Tokyo
🌟 2. Advantages of the Namboku Line
✅ 1. A rare “north–south” subway line that connects key districts
Connects diverse areas such as Meguro, Shirokanedai, Azabu-Juban, Iidabashi, and Oji
Excellent interchange environment: connects with 9 major lines
Ideal for people who frequently move vertically through the city
✅ 2. Less crowded and more comfortable than other major lines
As a newer line, trains are generally less congested
Through-service with Tokyu & Saitama lines helps distribute passengers
Commuters often appreciate the calmer ride compared to major east-west lines
✅ 3. Safe, quiet, and refined residential areas along the line
Areas like Shirokane-Takanawa, Azabu-Juban, and Hon-Komagome are
known for their elegant, peaceful streets and excellent safety
Popular with singles, DINKs, and affluent families
✅ 4. Full platform doors & universal barrier-free design
All stations have platform doors—top-tier safety
Elevators and intuitive signage make it easy for seniors and families
Comfortable and reassuring for daily use
⚠️ 3. Disadvantages of the Namboku Line
❌ 1. Local service only — travel time can feel slow
No express or rapid trains
For long distances, total travel time tends to be longer
A line suited for people who value “no transfers” and comfort over speed
❌ 2. Slightly early last trains in some sections
Compared to other Tokyo Metro lines,
certain sections—especially through-service areas—have earlier final trains
❌ 3. Some stations have long transfer pathways
Stations like Iidabashi, Nagatacho, and Komagome
require long walks when transferring
Allow extra time during peak hours or bad weather
🧺 4. Daily Convenience (Overall Evaluation)
Here’s the general “livability” impression of areas along the line:
Transportation (★★★★☆)
Excellent for commuting: direct access to Tokyu Meguro Line & Saitama Railway
Shopping (★★★☆☆)
Some stations have limited retail,
but Meguro and Azabu-Juban offer rich shopping & dining options
Education (★★★★☆)
Home to major academic institutions like Ochanomizu University and
the University of Tokyo (Hongo)
Safety (★★★★★)
Many upscale, quiet, residential districts—overall extremely safe
Nature & Parks (★★★★☆)
Large parks near Iidabashi, Korakuen, Oji, etc.
Good for jogging, walking, and family outings
🏠 5. Real Estate View (Rent Prices & Housing Characteristics)
💴 Approximate Rent Prices (2025)
1R / 1K (Singles)
Meguro：￥100,000–￥130,000
Shirokanedai：￥110,000–￥140,000
Azabu-Juban：￥120,000–￥150,000
Hon-Komagome：￥85,000–￥100,000
Oji：￥70,000–￥90,000
Akabane-Iwabuchi：￥65,000–￥80,000
Family-size Units (2LDK and above)
Meguro：￥230,000–￥350,000
Shirokanedai：￥250,000–￥380,000
Azabu-Juban：￥280,000–￥400,000
Hon-Komagome：￥160,000–￥220,000
Oji：￥130,000–￥180,000
Akabane-Iwabuchi：￥120,000–￥170,000
※ Southern/central stations skew luxury,
while Kita Ward–Saitama areas are more affordable and family-friendly
🏘 Housing Characteristics by Area
Southern Section (Meguro–Azabu-Juban)
High-end condominiums & refined residential streets
→ Perfect for DINKs and affluent households
Central Section (Iidabashi–Komagome)
Many student-friendly & single-friendly rentals
→ Close to academic and cultural facilities
Northern Section (Oji–Akabane-Iwabuchi)
Ongoing redevelopment & rising number of family-oriented apartments
→ Popular for budget-conscious households who want good access to central Tokyo
🎯 6. Who Is the Namboku Line Ideal For?
✅ Those who want a comfortable commute with less crowding
✅ DINKs or singles who prefer quiet, upscale residential districts
✅ Families commuting from Kita Ward or Saitama without transfers
✅ Seniors or families seeking a barrier-free, safe transit environment
✅ People who value safety, calm surroundings, and refined living over city center bustle
📌 7. Summary
The Tokyo Metro Namboku Line is:
A well-balanced line offering both central Tokyo access and suburban through-service
Known for its quiet, safe neighborhoods and refined residential atmosphere
Highly rated for comfort, safety, and daily livability
While it lacks express trains and some transfers are long,
its overall comfort and high safety standards make it one of Tokyo Metro’s most appealing lines.
If you want:
“A calm residential environment and smooth access to central Tokyo,”
the Namboku Line area is an excellent choice.