The Minatomirai Line connects Yokohama Station with Motomachi-Chukagai Station.
Although the entire route is only 4.1 km, it links the city’s key attractions, business districts, and residential areas in a compact and highly convenient way.

With through-service to the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tobu Tojo Line, and Seibu Ikebukuro Line, you can travel directly from Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Kawagoe, and Tokorozawa to Yokohama and Chinatown with no transfers.

🏛 1. Basic Information & History

Official Name: Yokohama Minatomirai 21 Line (commonly: Minatomirai Line)
Operator: Yokohama Minatomirai Railway Co., Ltd. (Third-sector railway)
Line Color: Blue
Distance: 4.1 km
Stations: 6
Terminals: Yokohama Station – Motomachi/Chukagai Station
Opened: February 1, 2004

Through-service includes:
• Tokyu Toyoko Line
• Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line
• Tobu Tojo Line
• Seibu Ikebukuro Line

📜 Historical Background

• The line was constructed as part of the large-scale redevelopment project known as “Minatomirai 21,” transforming the old port district of Yokohama.
• The project also involved moving the Tokyu Toyoko Line underground, effectively extending it toward the Minatomirai area.
• Although it functions like a subway, its through-service allows smooth access from Tokyo and Saitama directly into Yokohama’s core.

🌟 2. Advantages of Living Along the Minatomirai Line
✅ 1. Direct access from Tokyo & Saitama to Yokohama’s center and tourist areas

• Direct travel from Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Tokorozawa, Kawagoe, and more.
• Great for both sightseeing and commuting thanks to minimal transfers.

✅ 2. Stylish and beautifully designed stations

• Stations such as Minatomirai, Bashamichi, and Nihon-Odori feature artistic and sophisticated architecture.
• The station atmosphere harmonizes with the elegant and modern feel of the Minatomirai area.

✅ 3. Covers all major sightseeing spots and business districts

• Yokohama Landmark Tower, Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, and Chinatown are all located along the line.
• Office buildings and business hubs have grown rapidly, making it attractive for working professionals as well.

✅ 4. Excellent connectivity to Tokyo & Saitama

• Through-service on the Tokyu and Fukutoshin Line networks allows access to central Tokyo and suburban Saitama.
• Suitable for those who live in Yokohama and commute to the Tokyo metropolitan area.

⚠️ 3. Disadvantages / Challenges
❌ 1. Higher fares due to third-sector operation

• Yokohama – Motomachi/Chukagai (only 4.1 km) costs around ¥210 (IC fare).
• Transfers to Tokyo Metro lines can increase total fare significantly.

❌ 2. Short route length

• Stations are extremely close together, making some people feel that walking or taking a bus is enough.
• For short-range use, the fare may feel expensive relative to distance.

❌ 3. Crowds during weekends and peak tourist seasons

• Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, and event areas often cause heavy congestion.
• Trains and station platforms can become extremely crowded on holidays.

🧺 4. Overall Living Convenience (Line Evaluation)

Transportation: ★★★★★
• Excellent access to Tokyo and Saitama thanks to through-service.
• Many trains originate at Yokohama Station.

Shopping: ★★★★★
• You can buy anything around Yokohama Station or Minatomirai.

Dining & Entertainment: ★★★★★
• Chinatown, Landmark Tower, amusement facilities, restaurants, and cafes are all abundant.

Nature & Scenery: ★★★★☆
• Scenic bayside views, seaside parks, and beautiful nightscapes.

Safety: ★★★☆☆
• Tourist crowds create a busy environment, but redeveloped residential areas are calm and upscale.

🏠 5. Real Estate Overview (Approx. 2025)
💴 Rent Averages (Monthly)

Yokohama Station Area
• 1R–1K: ¥95,000–¥120,000
• Families (2LDK+): ¥180,000–¥280,000

Shin-Takashima
• 1R–1K: ¥100,000–¥130,000
• Families: ¥200,000–¥300,000

Minatomirai
• 1R–1K: ¥110,000–¥140,000
• Families: ¥220,000–¥350,000 (includes luxury towers)

Bashamichi
• 1R–1K: ¥90,000–¥110,000
• Families: ¥180,000–¥280,000

Nihon-Odori
• 1R–1K: ¥85,000–¥105,000
• Families: ¥160,000–¥250,000

Motomachi–Chukagai
• 1R–1K: ¥80,000–¥100,000
• Families: ¥150,000–¥230,000

🏘 Housing Characteristics

• Minatomirai Station area: High-end luxury high-rise towers with excellent views.
• Bashamichi & Nihon-Odori: Many newer condominiums, quiet yet central.
• Motomachi–Chukagai: Renovated heritage buildings and artistic low-rise apartments.
• Overall, property prices and rent are higher, but scenery, convenience, and long-term value are all strong.

🎯 6. Best Suited For

• People who want a stylish, urban, seaside lifestyle in Yokohama
• Those commuting to Tokyo via Tokyu or Fukutoshin Line
• Singles, couples, or affluent residents who enjoy sightseeing spots & city views
• Buyers considering high-value tower apartments with strong resale potential

📌 7. Summary

The Minatomirai Line may be short, but it offers:

• Excellent connectivity to central Tokyo
• Beautiful bayside landscapes and strong area branding
• A rare combination of sightseeing, business, and residential convenience

Fares and congestion can be concerns, but the design, scenery, and high-quality living environment often outweigh them.

If you want to turn your everyday life into something a little more special,
living along the Minatomirai Line is a perfect choice.