The Yokohama Municipal Green Line is a subway-style route connecting the northern Yokohama area, particularly the well-developed Kohoku New Town.
Running between Hiyoshi and Nakayama, it links residential districts, commercial zones, and green parks—making it one of the most popular family-oriented lines in the city.
🏛 1. Basic Information & Overview
Official Name: Yokohama Municipal Rapid Transit Line 4 (Green Line)
Line Color: Green
Total Length: Approx. 13.0 km
Number of Stations: 10
Terminals: Hiyoshi Station (Kohoku Ward) ⇄ Nakayama Station (Midori Ward)
Operator: Yokohama City Transportation Bureau
Opened: March 30, 2008
Through Services: None (connected to the Municipal Blue Line)
📜 2. History & Background
・Developed to eliminate transportation gaps in northern Yokohama, especially the Kohoku New Town area.
・Constructed based on strong demand from local residents, and opened as a relatively new subway system.
・The line serves residential zones, educational districts, and redevelopment areas—highly favored by families.
・Future extension plans (Hiyoshi–Shin-Tsunashima–Tsurumi / Nakayama–Futamatagawa) may further increase convenience and value.
🌟 3. Strengths (Merits)
✅ 1. Clean, Modern, and Comfortable Facilities
・Being a new line (opened in 2008), stations and trains are modern and well-kept.
・All stations are equipped with platform screen doors, elevators, and full barrier-free access.
・Safe and easy to use for children, seniors, and families.
✅ 2. Covers Popular Family-Friendly Residential Areas
・Areas like Kitayamada, Center-Kita, and Center-Minami feature malls, parks, child-care facilities, and safe residential environments.
・Highly rated by families seeking comfort, convenience, and greenery.
✅ 3. Easy Connections to Tokyu, JR, and Blue Line
・Transfer at Hiyoshi (Tokyu Toyoko Line), Nakayama (JR Yokohama Line), Center-Minami (Blue Line).
・Provides flexible access to major destinations in Yokohama, Kawasaki, and beyond.
✅ 4. Less Crowded Compared to Other Major Lines
・Relatively low congestion levels even during rush hours.
・Many riders find it easier to secure a seat than on other metropolitan lines.
⚠️ 4. Weaknesses (Demerits)
❌ 1. Fewer Trains & Longer Travel Times (Transfers Needed)
・Even during rush hours: approx. 8 trains/hour (every 7–8 minutes).
・No through operations, so commuting to central Tokyo often requires transfers.
・Travel times may feel longer compared to direct routes.
❌ 2. Higher Fares for a Short Distance
・Full-length IC fare is around ¥360 (as of 2025), which feels expensive for a short route.
・Total fare becomes even higher when combined with Tokyu/JR transfers.
❌ 3. Limited Tourist Spots & Nightlife
・Mainly residential, with few business districts or entertainment areas.
・Used mostly as a “daily life” route for commuting, school, and shopping.
🧺 5. Daily Convenience Along the Line
Transportation:
・Convenient transfers to Tokyu, JR, and Blue Line.
・However, most routes to central Tokyo require transfers.
Shopping/Commercial:
・Center-Kita & Center-Minami have large shopping malls with everything from groceries to fashion.
Safety:
・Very calm residential atmosphere; overall high safety levels.
Childcare Environment:
・Abundant parks, nurseries, and schools—ideal for families with kids.
Nature:
・Many green areas and walking paths; great for jogging and outdoor activities.
🏠 6. Real Estate Perspective (2025 Estimates)
💴 Rent Range (Monthly)
Hiyoshi
・1R / 1K:¥85,000〜¥110,000
・2LDK〜(Family):¥170,000〜¥250,000
・Note:Popular student and business hub; higher price range.
Kitayamada
・1R / 1K:¥75,000〜¥90,000
・Family:¥140,000〜¥200,000
・Note:Quiet, family-focused residential district.
Center-Kita
・1R / 1K:¥80,000〜¥105,000
・Family:¥160,000〜¥230,000
・Note:Multiple malls and top-tier convenience.
Center-Minami
・1R / 1K:¥80,000〜¥100,000
・Family:¥150,000〜¥220,000
・Note:Administrative and commercial facilities concentrated.
Nakayama
・1R / 1K:¥70,000〜¥90,000
・Family:¥140,000〜¥200,000
・Note:Easy JR connection; nature-rich suburban feel.
🏘 Housing Characteristics
・Low-rise condominiums and modern residential developments dominate the line.
・Center-Kita/Center-Minami areas are seeing gradual growth in tower apartments.
・The main demographic is families; singles and DINKs also find it comfortable.
🎯 7. Who Is the Green Line Ideal For?
・Families seeking a safe, calm residential environment in northern Yokohama
・People who want a balanced lifestyle with nature, shopping, and childcare facilities
・Commuters who frequently transfer to Tokyu, JR, or the Blue Line
・Residents who value future redevelopment potential and stable property value
📌 8. Summary
The Yokohama Municipal Green Line is a family-oriented subway route connecting residential and commercial areas throughout northern Yokohama.
It offers a strong balance of safety, comfort, greenery, and convenience, supported by modern facilities and well-planned town development.
While issues like higher fares and the need for transfers remain,
the overall quality of life along the line is high—making it a highly attractive option for families and long-term residents.