The Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line), operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation, is the only surviving streetcar line among the 40+ routes that once ran through Tokyo.
It offers a nostalgic atmosphere, peaceful streetscape, and serves as an essential mode of everyday transportation for local residents.
🏛 1. Basic Information & History
Official Name: Toden Arakawa Line (Nickname: Tokyo Sakura Tram)
Operator: Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation
Line Color: Pink (Sakura)
Operating Distance: 12.2 km
Number of Stations: 30
Terminals: Minowabashi (Taito Ward) – Waseda (Shinjuku Ward)
📜 Historical Background
Partially opened in 1913
The only surviving line among more than 40 former Tokyo streetcar routes
Survived the major downsizing in 1974 as the “Arakawa Line”
Nicknamed “Tokyo Sakura Tram” since 2017, gaining popularity among tourists and locals
🌟 2. Advantages of the Tokyo Sakura Tram
1. Nostalgic Retro Atmosphere
Classic streetcar design and slow, scenic ride
Blends naturally with local streetscapes
A rare area where Showa-era charm still remains in central Tokyo
2. Essential for Local Daily Life
Widely used by seniors, families, and students
Convenient for commuting, shopping, and hospital visits
A truly community-based transportation system
3. Plenty of Tourist Spots Along the Line
Zoshigaya Kishimojin Temple
Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street
Kajiwara Station (famous for “Toden Monaka” sweets)
Arakawa Amusement Park
Popular among overseas visitors and retro-themed walkers
4. Short Distance Between Stops
About 300 meters between stations
Easy to combine walking and tram riding
Very convenient for local mobility
⚠️ 3. Disadvantages
1. Very Slow Speed
Top speed around 40 km/h
Frequent stops, signals, and intersections
Not ideal for commuters in a hurry
2. Inconvenient Transfers
No direct connection to major hubs like Shinjuku, Tokyo, or Shibuya
Transfers are often necessary
Fare system is unique and similar to buses, which may be confusing
3. Long Waiting Time Between Trams
Even on weekdays, intervals are about 6–7 minutes
Limited frequency during rush hours
🧺 4. Daily Life Convenience (Mobile-Friendly)
• Transportation
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Best for short-distance travel
Weaker access to long-distance routes and central Tokyo
• Shopping & Commercial Facilities
Rating: ★★★★☆
Plenty of shopping streets in Otsuka, Sugamo, Machiya, and more
• Safety & Comfort
Rating: ★★★★☆
Warm, community-driven neighborhoods typical of Tokyo’s older districts
• Childcare & Education
Rating: ★★★★☆
Many parks, libraries, and schools along the line
Comfortable for families with children
• Tourism & Culture
Rating: ★★★★★
Rich in nostalgic sights, shrines, temples, and unique retro culture
🏠 5. Real Estate Perspective (Mobile-Friendly)
• Rent Estimates (2025 / 1R–1K)
Waseda: ¥80,000–¥100,000 (popular student area)
Omokagebashi: ¥75,000–¥90,000 (quiet residential setting)
Otsuka-ekimae: ¥85,000–¥110,000 (great access to the Yamanote Line)
Arakawa-shakomae: ¥65,000–¥80,000 (traditional downtown area)
Machiya-ekimae: ¥70,000–¥90,000 (good connection to Keisei Line)
Minowabashi: ¥65,000–¥80,000 (vibrant nostalgic shopping street)
• Housing Characteristics
Many older buildings → more affordable rent
Newer apartment developments increasing around Machiya, Otsuka, and Koshinzuka
Mostly small-scale apartments and community-centered housing
Cost performance is generally high compared with nearby railway lines
🎯 6. Who the Tokyo Sakura Tram Is Good For
People who enjoy calm, traditional downtown Tokyo living
Fans of retro vibes, nostalgic culture, and Showa-era charm
Residents who want car-free, walkable neighborhoods
Students and singles seeking more affordable Tokyo rent
📌 7. Summary
The Tokyo Sakura Tram is more than a transportation system—
it is the last living piece of Tokyo’s historic streetcar culture.
With its peaceful pace, friendly local community, and nostalgic scenery,
it remains beloved by residents and visitors alike.
Quiet, convenient, and culturally rich,
the Tokyo Sakura Tram is a uniquely warm and human-centered way to experience everyday Tokyo.