The Toei Shinjuku Line runs east–west across Tokyo, starting at Shinjuku Station and extending to Motoyawata Station in Ichikawa City, Chiba.
With direct through-service to the Keio Line, it also connects to western Tokyo and the Tama area, making it a high-utility commuter line valued for daily use.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Official Name: Toei Subway Shinjuku Line (operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation)
Line Color: Green
Operating Distance: Approx. 23.5 km
Number of Stations: 21
Terminals:
Shinjuku Station (Tokyo)
Motoyawata Station (Ichikawa, Chiba)
🚃 Through-Service
Direct operation with the Keio Line via Sasazuka
→ Provides seamless access to areas such as Chofu, Hachioji, and Hashimoto.
📜 Historical Highlights
1971: First segment (Iwamotocho–Higashi-Ojima) opened
1978: Entire line between Shinjuku and Motoyawata completed
Built to strengthen east–west travel in Tokyo, the line today functions as an important commuter corridor connecting Tokyo, Chiba, and the Tama region (via Keio Line).
🌟 2. Advantages (Merits)
✅ 1. Direct Connection Between Shinjuku and Motoyawata
Provides one-seat access from Ichikawa City (Chiba) to Shinjuku.
Very strong for city-center commuting and school access.
✅ 2. Direct Access to Western Tokyo via the Keio Line
After Shinjuku, trains run through the Keio New Line and Keio Line.
Convenient for traveling to Chofu, Hachioji, Hashimoto, and other suburban areas.
✅ 3. Less Congested Compared to the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line
Covers a similar corridor yet generally avoids the extreme peak-hour congestion of the Tozai Line.
Offers Limited Express and Express services, ensuring faster travel times.
✅ 4. Simple Station Layouts and Easy Transfers
Many stations feature straightforward, linear designs.
Transfer routes are intuitive, making the line easy to navigate—even for first-time users.
⚠️ 3. Disadvantages (Demerits)
❌ 1. Not a Core “Inner-Tokyo” Line
Does not pass through the heart of central Tokyo (e.g., Tokyo Station, Ginza, Shibuya, Roppongi).
Transfers are required to reach major inner-city hubs.
❌ 2. Some Transfer Stations Are Less Convenient
At stations like Kudanshita, Jimbocho, and Bakuro-Yokoyama, transfer passages can be long or slightly confusing.
❌ 3. Keio Line Delays Affect the Shinjuku Line
Because of through-operation,
any disruption or delay on the Keio Line directly impacts the Shinjuku Line.
🧺 4. Daily Convenience (Along the Line)
Transportation: ★★★★☆
Direct to Shinjuku + through-service to Keio Line; excellent east–west access.
Shopping: ★★★★☆
Major commercial nodes such as Motoyawata, Funabori, Morishita, and Shinjuku.
Education / Childcare: ★★★★☆
Many schools and parks; predominantly residential along much of the line.
Safety: ★★★☆☆
Areas near Shinjuku and Kudanshita can feel busy, but the eastern section is very calm and residential.
Nature / Parks: ★★★☆☆
Riverside areas, playgrounds, and mid-sized parks are found mainly toward the suburban end.
🏠 5. Real Estate Perspective (2025 Market Estimates)
💴 Monthly Rent Averages (approx.)
Shinjuku
1R / 1K: ¥100,000–¥130,000
Family (2LDK+): ¥230,000–¥350,000
Akebonobashi / Ichigaya
1R / 1K: ¥90,000–¥110,000
Family: ¥180,000–¥250,000
Morishita / Hamacho
1R / 1K: ¥80,000–¥100,000
Family: ¥160,000–¥220,000
Higashi-Ojima / Ojima
1R / 1K: ¥75,000–¥90,000
Family: ¥140,000–¥200,000
Funabori / Ichinoe
1R / 1K: ¥70,000–¥85,000
Family: ¥130,000–¥180,000
Motoyawata
1R / 1K: ¥65,000–¥80,000
Family: ¥120,000–¥160,000
🏘 Housing Trends Along the Line
Shinjuku–Ichigaya:
Compact apartments; ideal for singles and DINKs.
Morishita–Funabori:
Quiet and residential; popular with families.
Motoyawata:
A cost-effective commuter town with direct access to Shinjuku.
🎯 6. Who the Toei Shinjuku Line Is Ideal For
✅ People working in the Shinjuku area who want direct, transfer-free commuting
✅ Those seeking affordable rent in East Tokyo or Ichikawa (Chiba)
✅ Families who value a quiet residential environment with ample parks and schools
✅ Commuters wanting to avoid the extreme congestion of the Tozai Line
📌 7. Summary
The Toei Shinjuku Line offers:
Direct Shinjuku access
Through-service to the Tama region
Lower congestion compared to similar east–west routes
Family-friendly residential environments along the eastern section
It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking stable commuting, quiet living, and convenient access to Shinjuku—all while keeping housing costs reasonable.