Station & Area Guide Information
🏛 Chiyoda City — The Heart of Japan’s Power, Culture, and Prestige ―― A district where the Imperial Palace, politics, finance, and history converge ――
🌸 Overview Chiyoda City is the symbolic center of Tokyo — home to the Imperial Palace, Marunouchi, Otemachi, Kasumigaseki, Nagatacho, Akihabara, Jimbocho, and Hibiya. It houses Japan’s key government offices, the Diet, Supreme Court, and headquarters of leading corporations. Despite its business core, the area also features lush parks and moats, blending tradition, innovation, and greenery into a truly walkable urban hub 🌿✨ 👑 Symbol of the District: The Imperial Palace (Kōkyo) Built on the former Edo Castle grounds, the Imperial Palace sits at the very heart of Tokyo. Landmarks such as Nijubashi Bridge and Chidorigafuchi are beloved for their cherry blossoms 🌸 and scenic walking routes. The palace grounds and surrounding moat provide a calm, historical counterpoint to the modern skyline. 📜 Historical Highlights ・Edo Period: Political and military center under the Tokugawa Shogunate. ・Meiji to early Showa: Became Japan’s administrative and judicial core (ministries, Diet, Supreme Court). ・Post-war era: Office expansion in Marunouchi and Otemachi; academic and cultural growth in Jimbocho and Ochanomizu. ・Present day: Continuous redevelopment of Marunouchi, Otemachi, and Yurakucho, alongside preservation of Tokyo Station’s red-brick façade. 🌟 Area Highlights 🏢 Marunouchi / Otemachi / Yurakucho Japan’s premier business and finance district. High-rise offices, luxury retail,…
🏙 What Is the “Tokyo Central 6 Wards”?
The “Tokyo Central 6 Wards” (Toshin 6-ku) refer to Chiyoda, Minato, Chuo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Bunkyo. By adding Bunkyo Ward to the traditional “Central 5 Wards,” this area represents the core of Tokyo’s politics, economy, culture, education, and residential life—a true fusion of intellect and the urban center. With its blend of calm, prestige, and functionality, the area offers both the energy of the metropolis and the serenity of refined neighborhoods, making it one of the most sought-after residential zones among both Japanese and international residents. Origin of the Name The “Central 6 Wards” were defined by adding Bunkyo Ward—home to prestigious schools such as the University of Tokyo and Ochanomizu University—to the existing Central 5 (Chiyoda, Minato, Chuo, Shinjuku, Shibuya). Bunkyo has long been known as a district of learning and culture, combining strong education, healthcare, and living environments. Together, the six form the intellectual and urban heart of Tokyo. Key Features Outstanding balance of transportation, education, and living environment. Excellent access to major stations like Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro. A “lifeline of Tokyo,” where subway networks and arterial roads intersect. Mixed-use urban planning allows residents to work, study, live, and relax—all within walking distance. Ward Highlights Chiyoda:…
🏙 Chūō City – The Heart of Tokyo ―― A district that truly lives up to its name, standing at the very center of the capital ――
🌸 Overview & Character Chūō City is one of Tokyo’s core downtown areas, home to Ginza, Nihonbashi, Kyobashi, Tsukiji, Yaesu, and Tsukishima (including Kachidoki and Harumi). It was founded in 1947 through the merger of the former Nihonbashi and Kyobashi wards, and its name literally means “central.” From the Edo period onward, the area flourished as Japan’s commercial and cultural hub. Today, Chūō balances business, shopping, waterfront living, and rich heritage — a compact fusion of Work・Life・Play✨ ⛩ Symbol of the Ward: Nihonbashi — The Starting Point of Japan’s Roads Built during the early Edo era, Nihonbashi served as the starting point of the five major highways of old Japan. At its center stands the “Road Origin Marker (Kilometer Zero),” designating Japan’s official distance base. The current stone arch bridge was completed in 1911. A large-scale undergrounding project is underway to remove the expressway that covers the bridge, restoring open skies and historical views. Plans to convert the adjacent Tokyo Expressway (KK Line) into a pedestrian promenade are also in motion, symbolizing the rebirth of heritage in a modern cityscape🌉 📜 Historical Highlights ・Edo Era: Nihonbashi thrived as a trade hub; river transport along the Sumida and Tsukiji fish markets…
What Is the “Five Central Wards of Tokyo”?
The “Five Central Wards” refer to Chiyoda, Minato, Chuo, Shinjuku, and Shibuya — an area where politics, economy, culture, commerce, and residential life all reach the highest standards. It’s Tokyo’s true core, filled with Japan’s most prestigious business districts, commercial zones, and luxury neighborhoods. Real estate demand from both domestic and international buyers is highly concentrated here. ＜Origin of the Name＞ The term “Five Central Wards” combines the original “Three Core Wards” (Chiyoda, Minato, and Chuo) with Shinjuku and Shibuya — two areas that offer a mix of business, cultural, and residential functions. Together, these five districts form the economic, transport, and redevelopment heart of Tokyo, and hold special significance within Japan’s real estate industry. ＜Key Features＞ 🚉 Transportation Hub Major landmarks such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, Ginza, and Roppongi are all here. The area offers world-class convenience across all networks — subway, JR, Shinkansen, and airport access. ＜Area Highlights＞ Chiyoda Ward: The political and economic center surrounding the Imperial Palace. Marunouchi and Otemachi host major corporate headquarters. Minato Ward: Global and refined, home to Roppongi, Azabu, Aoyama, and Akasaka — renowned worldwide for luxury residences. Chuo Ward: Includes Ginza, Nihonbashi, Tsukiji, and Tsukishima — blending finance, retail,…
What Is “Tokyo’s Central 3 Wards”?
The “Central 3 Wards” refer to Chiyoda, Minato, and Chuo, the very heart of Tokyo’s political, economic, and cultural life. This area is home to Japan’s core institutions, where business, commerce, and high-end residential zones seamlessly coexist. It is widely regarded as Tokyo’s most prestigious and valuable district. Origin of the Name The term “Central 3 Wards” collectively refers to three special wards located at the geographic and symbolic center of Tokyo: Chiyoda Ward – The center of politics and administration Minato Ward – The hub of international business and luxury living Chuo Ward – The core of commerce and finance These districts are often called “the heart of Tokyo,” leading other areas in economic indicators and real estate value. Key Features 🚆 Transportation Hub: The area hosts major terminals such as Tokyo, Shinbashi, and Shinagawa Stations, offering top-class convenience with bullet trains, subways, and direct airport access. District Highlights 🏛 Chiyoda Ward: Home to the Imperial Palace, the National Diet, government ministries, and many corporate headquarters. Marunouchi and Otemachi represent Japan’s leading business districts. 🌉 Minato Ward: A cosmopolitan area with Roppongi, Akasaka, Azabu, and Aoyama—home to global companies, embassies, and elegant residences. 💎 Chuo Ward: Blending tradition and…
🚃 New Shuttle (Saitama New Urban Transit Ina Line) — A Smart Commuter Line Connecting Ōmiya and Ina, Blending Suburban Calm with City Access 🚈
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Official Name: Saitama New Urban Transit Ina Line (commonly known as “New Shuttle”) Opened: 1983 Route Length: approx. 12.7 km Terminals: Ōmiya – Uchijuku (Saitama City to Ina Town) Stations: 13 System Type: Rubber-tired automated guideway transit (AGT) Operator: Saitama New Urban Transit Co., Ltd. (Third-sector company) 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1983 beneath the elevated tracks of the Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines. ・Originally built to fill a transportation gap in northern Saitama and support suburban new-town development. ・Now serves as a vital connector between residential areas, schools, hospitals, and industrial zones. ・Acts as the “first mile” for many residents heading to the Tokyo metropolitan area via Ōmiya. 🚉 Main Stations & Highlights Ōmiya: A major terminal with JR lines, Shinkansen, and private railways — perfect for easy transfers. Tetsudō-Hakubutsukan (Railway Museum): Access to the popular museum, great for families. Kamonomiya / Higashi-Miyahara / Imaba: Quiet residential neighborhoods with good living environments. Hanikku / Ina-Chūō / Uchijuku: Core areas of Ina Town, with schools, hospitals, and family housing nearby. 🌟 Advantages (Merits) ✅ 1. Excellent Transfers at Ōmiya Direct connection to JR lines, Shinkansen, and private railways — easy travel to Tokyo or…
🚃 Yokohama Seaside Line — Connecting the Bay Area’s Lifestyle, Leisure, and Everyday Commute
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Line Name: Yokohama Seaside Line (Kanazawa Seaside Line) Operator: Yokohama Seaside Line Co., Ltd. (Third-sector company, majority owned by the City of Yokohama) Type: New Transit System (automated, rubber-tired guideway) Opened: 1989 (Heisei 1) Length: Approx. 10.6–10.8 km Route: Shin-Sugita (connected to JR Negishi Line) – Kanazawa-Hakkei (connected to Keikyu Line) Stations: 14 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1989 as part of Yokohama’s Bay Area redevelopment plan. ・Covers the coastal Kanazawa district, which previously lacked rail access. ・Operates as a fully automated, driverless system — a model of next-generation urban transit. ・In 2019, the extension to Kanazawa-Hakkei Station was completed, enhancing access to the Keikyu Line and greater Yokohama area. 🚉 Major Stations & Highlights Shin-Sugita: Connection to JR Negishi Line / gateway to Isogo district Nanbu-Shijō: Near Yokohama South Market / food and logistics hub Torihama: Closest to Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside Namiki-Chūō: Near Kanazawa Ward Office / primarily residential Hakkeijima: Direct access to Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise 🎡 Kanazawa-Hakkei: Connection with Keikyu Line / easy access to Miura and central Yokohama 🌟 Key Merits (Advantages) ✅ 1. Covers All the Bay Area Hotspots Connects major destinations such as Sea Paradise, the…
🚃 Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) — A 10-km Journey Connecting the Sea, Temples, and Everyday Life in Shonan
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Line Name: Enoshima Electric Railway (commonly known as Enoden) Operator: Enoshima Electric Railway Co., Ltd. (Odakyu Group) Opened: 1902 (Meiji 35) Distance: Approx. 10.0 km Route: Fujisawa Station – Kamakura Station (Kanagawa Prefecture) Stations: 15 Operation: Single-track line with passing loops / some sections share the road with cars Main Attractions: Enoshima Island, Kamakura Kōkō-mae, Hase (Great Buddha), Inamuragasaki, Gokurakuji IC Cards: Compatible with Suica / PASMO and other major IC cards (some stations use simple tap-on/tap-off gates) 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1902 between Fujisawa and Katase, and fully extended to Kamakura by 1910. ・Developed as both a tourist and community railway linking the seaside and the ancient capital. ・Famous for running right beside people’s houses, creating a nostalgic and cinematic scene. ・Often featured in anime, films, and dramas—today, Enoden is widely recognized as a symbol of the Shonan coast. 🌟 Highlights (Merits) ✅ 1. Breathtaking Coastal Views Enjoy ever-changing scenery—ocean, temples, pine trees, and narrow local streets. The seascape from Kamakura Kōkō-mae Station is one of Japan’s most photographed spots 🌊 ✅ 2. Easy Access to Major Attractions Connects all of Shonan’s must-see destinations—Kamakura Great Buddha, Hasedera Temple, Enoshima, and Inamuragasaki—on one…
🚃 Sotetsu Main Line — Connecting Yokohama and Ebina, a Smart Balance of City Access and Suburban Comfort
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Line Name: Sotetsu Main Line (相鉄本線) Operator: Sagami Railway (Sotetsu) Route Length: approx. 24.6 km Terminals: Yokohama – Ebina Number of Stations: 18 (all in Kanagawa Prefecture) Through-Services: JR Lines (to Shinjuku, Shibuya) / Tokyu Lines (to Shibuya, Meguro) Train Types: Local, Rapid, Commuter Express, Limited Express 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1917 as the Jinchu Railway between Atsugi and Futamatagawa. ・Merged with Sagami Railway and expanded as the company’s core route. ・Between the 1960s and 1980s, double-tracking and elevation projects supported Yokohama’s urban growth. ・In 2019, the Sotetsu–JR Direct Line opened, providing direct service to central Tokyo. ・In 2023, the Sotetsu–Tokyu Direct Line via Shin-Yokohama began, offering through trains to the Tokyu Toyoko and Meguro Lines. 🚉 Key Stations & Features Yokohama: Major terminal with many transfer options and the city’s largest shopping areas. Futamatagawa: Junction for the Izumino Line / nearest to Kanagawa Driver’s License Center. Yamato: Connected with the Odakyu Enoshima Line / one of the busiest stations. Ebina: Hub for Odakyu and JR Sagami Lines / surrounded by large shopping malls. 🌟 Highlights & Advantages ✅ 1. Direct Connections to Central Tokyo One-seat rides to Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Meguro —…
🚃 Sotetsu Izumino Line — A Calm, Well-Planned Suburban Route Balancing City Access and Peaceful Living
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Line Name: Sotetsu Izumino Line (相鉄いずみ野線) Length: Approx. 11.3 km Opened: 1976 (first section: Futamatagawa – Izumino) Terminals: Futamatagawa Station (Asahi-ku, Yokohama) – Shonandai Station (Fujisawa City) Stations: 7 (Futamatagawa, Minami-Makigahara, Ryokuen-Toshi, Yayoi-dai, Izumino, Izumi-Chuo, Yumegaoka, Shonandai) Connecting Lines: Sotetsu Main Line / Odakyu Enoshima Line / Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1976 as a branch of the Sotetsu Main Line, built to support suburban housing development in western Yokohama and the Fujisawa area. ・Extended to Shonandai in 1999, linking with the Odakyu and Yokohama Subway lines. ・Known as one of the “well-planned suburban lines,” featuring carefully designed residential towns and balanced urban planning. 🌟 Highlights (Advantages) ✅ 1. Thoughtfully Designed Residential Areas Ryokuen-Toshi, Yayoi-dai, and Izumino are beautifully arranged towns with parks, wide sidewalks, and good schools — ideal for families. 👨👩👧👦 ✅ 2. Peaceful and Safe Living Environment The line is quiet with few high-rise buildings or nightlife zones. It’s known for its calm and safe suburban atmosphere. 🌿 ✅ 3. Excellent Access to Central Tokyo Through the Sotetsu Main Line at Futamatagawa, you can reach Yokohama, Shibuya, and Shinjuku directly via the Sotetsu–Tokyu and Sotetsu–JR through…
🚆 Sotetsu Shin-Yokohama Line — The New Gateway Connecting Western Kanagawa and Central Tokyo
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Line Name: Sotetsu Shin-Yokohama Line (相鉄新横浜線) Operator: Sagami Railway (Sotetsu) Opened: Nov 30, 2019 (Nishiya – Hazawa Yokohama-Kokudai) / Mar 18, 2023 (Hazawa Yokohama-Kokudai – Shin-Yokohama) Route: Nishiya (Hodogaya Ward, Yokohama) → Shin-Yokohama (Kohoku Ward, Yokohama) Length: Approx. 6.3 km (entirely underground) Connections: Shin-Yokohama – Tokaido Shinkansen / JR Yokohama Line / Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line / Tokyu Shin-Yokohama Line (direct access to Meguro & Toyoko Lines) 📜 History & Background ・The Sotetsu Shin-Yokohama Line is part of a long-term project to connect Sotetsu directly to central Tokyo. ・The development was carried out in two stages: the Sotetsu–JR Direct Line (opened in 2019) and the Sotetsu–Tokyu Direct Line (opened in 2023). ・This connection allows through-train service from western Kanagawa (such as Ebina and Futamatagawa) directly to Meguro, Shibuya, Shinjuku-sanchome, and Ikebukuro—significantly improving access for commuters and travelers. 🚉 Major Stations & Connections Nishiya: Junction with the Sotetsu Main Line toward Yokohama Hazawa Yokohama-Kokudai: Built on the JR freight line / Nearest station to Yokohama National University Shin-Yokohama: Transfers to the Shinkansen, JR Yokohama Line, Blue Line, and Tokyu Shin-Yokohama Line 🌟 Highlights (Advantages) ✅ 1. Direct Access to Central Tokyo One-train connection to key…
🚃 Ryūtetsu Nagareyama Line — A Compact Local Train Connecting Quiet Living and City Access
🏛 Basic Information & Overview Official Name: Ryūtetsu Nagareyama Line Line Length: approx. 5.7 km / Section: Mabashi – Nagareyama Stations: 6 (Mabashi, Koya, Kogane-jōshi, Hiregasaki, Heiwadai, Nagareyama) Operator: Ryūtetsu Co., Ltd. (formerly Sōbu Nagareyama Electric Railway) Opened: 1916 (Taishō era) Area Served: Matsudo City – Nagareyama City (Chiba Prefecture) Connection: JR Jōban Line at Mabashi Station Service Time: about 11–12 minutes end-to-end / approx. 20-minute intervals in daytime, 15 minutes at rush hours IC Card Use: Not supported (ticket purchase required) 📜 History & Background ・Opened in 1916 as a light railway for freight transport. ・Started regular passenger service in 1949 and became a beloved community line. ・Renamed “Ryūtetsu Co., Ltd.” in 2008 to reflect its modern identity. ・At only 5.7 km with six stations, it remains one of Japan’s shortest but most local railways serving daily life. 🌟 Highlights & Appeal ✅ 1. A Community-Based Everyday Line Short station intervals connect residential neighborhoods and schools directly—vital for commuters and students. ✅ 2. One Easy Transfer to Central Tokyo Direct connection at Mabashi to the JR Jōban Line for quick access to Matsudo, Kitasenju, Ueno and Tokyo. ✅ 3. Calm and Green Living Environment The line runs through quiet…