Tokyo’s tram lines – the last two…
Tokyo has two tram lines. In the north of the city is the Toden Arakawa Line and in the south the Tokyu Setagaya Line. Both lines are the only ones in Tokyo that are legally classified as “light rail” although nowadays only the Toden Line (as it is referred to locally) has trains running
on the street, but only for a short distance; the rest, and all of the Tokyu Setagaya Line has its own dedicated track, but operate on the same basis as trams do. (map adapted from JR時刻表 published by 交通新聞社)
All that remains of a once extensive tram network…
Tokyo once had an extensive tram (streetcar) network, but they were eventually replaced by buses, subways and conventional rail lines as Tokyo developed. The two remaining lines run through local areas, so are a good way to see the other face of Tokyo from the bustling down town areas.
The Arakawa Line is operated by single tram cars the oldest dating back to 1990, but there are a couple of retro cars that were introduced in 2007.
The Setagaya Line is operated by two car articulated trams that were introduced in 1999. These trains are all “barrier free” design.
Information
Both lines also run on standard gauge track (1372mm 4ft 6in) and 600 V DC power. Toden has 33 single car trams and a depot close to the Arakawa Shakomae stop (where there are two old cars on display). Tokyu Setagaya Line has 10 two car trams with a depot at Kamimachi (not much to see).
Travel Information
Both lines have access to other transportation at various points. Flat rate fares apply whatever the distance [Toden Y170 or Y168 with IC Card / Setagaya Line Y150 or Y147 using IC cards- in both cases children are half fare] (all IC cards that are part of the national IC scheme can be used). There are various discount passes that can be used on either line, including 1 day passes. Day time frequencies are 6 to 10 minutes.
Toden Arakawa Line Gallery
The operators of both lines have made efforts to popularize their lines. The Toden Arakawa Line has been branded the Tokyo Sakura Line and the Tokyu Setagaya Line was one of the first transport systems to issue an IC card and later to introduce attendants to help passengers and speed up loading of trains.
Information on Toden Arakawa Line TOEI Website (English) Information on Tokyu Setagaya Line Tokyu Website (English)
Tokyu Setagaya Line Gallery
Trams in Japan
Excluding Tokyo there are 17 cities in Japan that have trams (street cars). Some systems are quite extensive, such as those in Hakodate, Kagoshima, Matsuyama and Hiroshima, others are less so but provide an important service to local residents and visitors to their cities. TS Japan Rail will be featuring other tram line systems in later posts.
For those real enthusiasts interested in trams and light rail, TS Japan Rail can help you with information and travel planning!
