Hibiya Line Guide: Complete Travel and Station Guide for Tokyo Metro

The Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (日比谷線) is one of the most important subway lines in Tokyo, connecting key business districts, shopping hubs, nightlife areas, and cultural spots. As one of Tokyo Metro’s oldest lines, the Hibiya Line has been serving commuters and travelers since 1961, running through central Tokyo from Kita-Senju in the northeast to Naka-Meguro in the southwest. For both residents and visitors, this line is especially convenient because it links major destinations like Roppongi, Ebisu, Ginza, and Akihabara.

If you’re new to Tokyo or planning your travel around the city, understanding the Hibiya Line can save you time, reduce transfer stress, and make your journey much smoother. This guide covers everything you need to know, including stations, transfers, attractions, tips for riders, and how the Hibiya Line fits into Tokyo’s massive transportation network.

Overview of the Hibiya Line

Operator: Tokyo Metro
Line color: Silver gray
Line symbol: H (for Hibiya)
Route: Kita-Senju (North Tokyo) – Naka-Meguro (West Tokyo)
Stations: 21
Total distance: ~20.3 km
Travel time: About 40 minutes end-to-end

The Hibiya Line runs diagonally across central Tokyo, which makes it one of the most efficient ways to travel between eastern districts and western hotspots without having to circle around on the Yamanote Line. It also offers through-service connections at both ends, linking with Tobu Skytree Line trains at Kita-Senju and Tokyu Toyoko Line trains at Naka-Meguro, which extend access to suburbs and beyond.

Key Stations and Transfers

Here are the most notable stations on the Hibiya Line, along with attractions and transfer options:

1. Kita-Senju (H21)

Transfer to JR Joban Line, Chiyoda Line, Hibiya Line start point, Tobu Skytree Line, Tsukuba Express.
Large shopping complexes and a gateway to northern Tokyo and Saitama.

2. Minowa & Minami-Senju (H20–H19)

Residential neighborhoods with easy access to budget accommodations, especially for backpackers.

3. Ueno (H17)

Transfer to JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, Ginza Line, Oedo Line nearby.
Attractions: Ueno Park, Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, Ameyoko shopping street.

4. Akihabara (H16)

Transfer to JR Yamanote Line, Sobu Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Tsukuba Express.
Attractions: Akihabara Electric Town, anime and gaming culture, maid cafés.

5. Hibiya (H07)

Transfer to Marunouchi Line, Chiyoda Line, and JR Yamanote Line at Yurakucho.
Attractions: Hibiya Park, Imperial Hotel, luxury theaters, and Marunouchi business district.

6. Ginza (H08)

Transfer to Ginza Line and Marunouchi Line.
Attractions: Tokyo’s most famous luxury shopping street, flagship department stores, Kabuki-za Theater.

7. Roppongi (H04)

Attractions: Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, National Art Center, vibrant nightlife district.
Transfer: Oedo Line.

8. Hiroo (H03)

Attractions: International schools, embassies, and a major expat residential area with global restaurants.

9. Ebisu (H02)

Transfer to JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line.
Attractions: Yebisu Garden Place, Museum of Yebisu Beer, many dining and bar options.

10. Naka-Meguro (H01)

Transfer to Tokyu Toyoko Line (connects to Yokohama).
Attractions: Trendy cafes, Meguro River (famous cherry blossom viewing spot).

Why the Hibiya Line is Important

Business Access: Passes through major office districts like Ginza, Hibiya, and Roppongi.
Tourist Hotspots: Direct access to Ueno, Akihabara, and Ebisu without long transfers.
Nightlife Connection: Direct to Roppongi and Naka-Meguro, both popular with locals and foreigners.
Shopping and Dining: Ginza, Ueno, Ebisu, and Naka-Meguro are all key stops for fashion, food, and entertainment.
Through Service: Links with suburban lines, reducing the need for extra transfers.

Travel Tips for the Hibiya Line

Peak Hours: Expect heavy congestion during weekday mornings (7:30–9:30 AM) and evenings (5:00–7:30 PM), especially around Ueno, Ginza, and Roppongi.
Best for Tourists: If you’re visiting Tokyo for leisure, the Hibiya Line is extremely tourist-friendly because it connects cultural sites (Ueno, Akihabara) with modern districts (Roppongi, Ebisu).
JR Pass Note: The Hibiya Line is operated by Tokyo Metro, not JR, so the Japan Rail Pass does not cover it. Suica or PASMO IC cards are recommended for convenience.
Accessibility: Major stations like Ueno, Ginza, and Roppongi have elevators, escalators, and barrier-free access, but smaller stations may be limited.

Attractions Along the Hibiya Line

Cultural Stops

Ueno: Museums, zoo, temples, cherry blossoms.
Akihabara: Electronics and anime culture hub.
Roppongi: Contemporary art and nightlife.

Shopping & Dining

Ginza: World-class shopping and fine dining.
Ebisu: Trendy restaurants, craft beer, international cuisine.
Naka-Meguro: Chic boutiques and coffee culture.

Relaxation

Hibiya Park: Tokyo’s first Western-style park, ideal for strolling.
Meguro River: Famous cherry blossoms in spring.

Hibiya Line for Different Travelers

First-Time Visitors: Great line for seeing Tokyo’s contrasts—old vs. modern.
Shoppers: Ginza and Ebisu are must-stop areas.
Nightlife Lovers: Roppongi and Naka-Meguro are perfect choices.
Families: Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park make it family-friendly.
Expats/Long-term Residents: Hiroo is especially popular for international residents.

Suggested Itinerary Using the Hibiya Line

Morning: Start at Ueno (explore Ueno Park & museums).
Midday: Stop at Akihabara for shopping and lunch.
Afternoon: Head to Ginza for high-end shopping and Kabuki theater.
Evening: Finish at Roppongi or Ebisu for dinner and nightlife.

This route gives a perfect day in Tokyo mixing culture, shopping, and nightlife—all along the Hibiya Line.

Final Thoughts

The Hibiya Line is a backbone of Tokyo Metro, offering a direct link between historic, cultural, and modern parts of the city. Whether you’re visiting Ueno’s museums, shopping in Ginza, enjoying Roppongi nightlife, or relaxing in Naka-Meguro, this line is one of the most convenient ways to explore Tokyo. For travelers, business professionals, and long-term residents, the Hibiya Line remains a practical and essential part of daily life in the city.

FAQs

What is the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and why is it useful for travelers?

The Hibiya Line is a Tokyo Metro subway route running diagonally across central Tokyo from Naka-Meguro in the southwest to Kita-Senju in the northeast. It is color-coded silver and uses the letter “H” on maps and signage (e.g., H-01 for Naka-Meguro). For visitors, it offers quick access to headline neighborhoods—Ginza for luxury shopping, Roppongi for art and nightlife, Akihabara for electronics and pop culture, Ueno for museums and parks, and Ebisu for dining—without needing to loop around on the JR Yamanote Line. It also connects to suburban lines at both ends, which reduces transfers.

Where does the Hibiya Line start and end, and how long does a full run take?

The line runs between Naka-Meguro (H-01) and Kita-Senju (H-21). A typical end-to-end ride takes roughly 40 minutes under normal conditions. Trains are frequent, especially during peak hours, so you rarely wait long on platforms.

What are the most popular stations to know on the Hibiya Line?

Key stops include:

Ginza (H-08): Flagship stores, department stores, and Kabuki-za Theater.
Hibiya (H-07): Hibiya Park, business district, easy link to Marunouchi and Yurakucho.
Roppongi (H-04): Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, contemporary art museums, nightlife.
Ebisu (H-02): Yebisu Garden Place, dining, relaxed evening spots.
Naka-Meguro (H-01): Cafés, Meguro River cherry blossoms, link to Tokyu Toyoko Line.
Akihabara (H-16): Electronics, anime, gaming, easy transfers to JR and Tsukuba Express.
Ueno (H-17): Ueno Park, museums, zoo, Ameyoko market.
Kita-Senju (H-21): Major interchange to northern Tokyo and the Tobu area.

Is the Hibiya Line covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)?

No. The JR Pass covers JR-operated lines; the Hibiya Line is operated by Tokyo Metro, which is separate. To ride the Hibiya Line, use an IC card like Suica or PASMO, or purchase individual tickets from the Tokyo Metro machines.

What ticket or IC card should I use on the Hibiya Line?

Most riders use Suica or PASMO for tap-in/tap-out convenience and accurate fare calculation across different operators. If you plan heavy subway use in a day or two, consider a Tokyo Subway Ticket (24/48/72-hour passes valid on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway). These can be cost-effective if you will make multiple rides daily.

How do I navigate station codes and signage on the Hibiya Line?

Each station has an “H” prefix and a number increasing from southwest to northeast. Platform screens, overhead signs, and in-car displays show English, Japanese, and often Chinese/Korean. Transfer icons and arrows are clearly marked. If you know your station code (e.g., H-08 for Ginza), you can easily track progress onboard and avoid missing your stop.

What are typical crowd levels and the best times to ride?

Weekday rush hours (around 7:30–9:30 and 17:00–19:30) are crowded, especially through the central corridor (Ueno—Ginza—Roppongi). Mid-mornings and mid-afternoons are calmer. Evenings can be busy around Roppongi, Ebisu, and Naka-Meguro due to dining and nightlife. If you prefer space, aim for off-peak times and consider boarding toward the ends of platforms where cars may be slightly less crowded.

How do transfers work from the Hibiya Line to other lines?

Transfers are signed inside stations with colored symbols and arrows. Common interchanges include:

Naka-Meguro: Tokyu Toyoko Line (toward Yokohama).
Ebisu: JR Yamanote/Saikyo/Shonan-Shinjuku Lines.
Roppongi: Toei Oedo Line.
Ginza/Hibiya: Tokyo Metro Ginza and Marunouchi Lines, plus JR at nearby Yurakucho.
Akihabara: JR Yamanote/Keihin-Tohoku/Sobu and Tsukuba Express (short walk within the complex).
Ueno: JR Yamanote/Keihin-Tohoku and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
Kita-Senju: JR Joban, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda, Tobu Skytree, and Tsukuba Express via complex.

Some transfers require walking through corridors or up/down stairs and escalators; follow the colored signs and allow a few extra minutes.

What are the first and last trains like on the Hibiya Line?

First trains typically start very early, and last trains are late at night, but exact times vary by station and day. If you plan tight connections or late-night returns, check the latest timetable on the day of travel through official apps or station posters. Missing the last train can result in an expensive taxi ride, so plan ahead, especially from nightlife areas such as Roppongi and Ebisu.

How do fares work and how can I estimate costs?

Fares depend on distance traveled. With IC cards, the system automatically calculates the best fare. If you prefer paper tickets, fare charts above the ticket machines show prices by destination. For multi-ride sightseeing days, a time-based subway pass can be cheaper and simpler than calculating individual fares.

Is the Hibiya Line accessible for travelers with strollers or wheelchairs?

Major stations like Ueno, Ginza, Hibiya, Roppongi, Ebisu, and Naka-Meguro generally provide elevators, escalators, and accessible gates. However, layouts vary. Look for the universal accessibility symbols on station maps and signage. If you are traveling with a stroller, use wide gates near the station staff booth and avoid peak hours when possible.

What etiquette should I follow on Hibiya Line trains and platforms?

Queue behind the platform lines, let passengers alight before boarding, and keep backpacks in front during peak times. Priority seats are for the elderly, pregnant passengers, people with disabilities, and those with infants—offer your seat when needed. Speak quietly on phones in concourses; calls are generally discouraged onboard. Eating is uncommon on subways; small drinks are fine if handled neatly.

How can I use the Hibiya Line for a one-day sightseeing route?

A popular sequence is: Ueno (H-17) for museums and park in the morning, Akihabara (H-16) for electronics and lunch, Ginza (H-08) for shopping mid-afternoon, then Roppongi (H-04) or Ebisu (H-02) for dinner and nightlife. This route balances culture, shopping, and evening fun with minimal backtracking.

Are there direct through-services to other railways from the Hibiya Line?

Yes. At the southwest end, Naka-Meguro connects to the Tokyu Toyoko Line (toward Jiyugaoka, Den-en-chofu, and Yokohama). At the northeast end, Kita-Senju links to the Tobu Skytree Line and other services. These connections make it easy to continue beyond central Tokyo without returning to the Yamanote loop.

Is there luggage storage near Hibiya Line stations?

Many major stations (Ueno, Ginza, Roppongi, Ebisu, Akihabara) have coin lockers or nearby baggage storage services. Sizes and availability vary; small lockers fill quickly during peak sightseeing seasons. If you carry large suitcases, consider forwarding services offered by hotels or delivery counters to avoid crowds.

What should I know about safety and late-night travel on the Hibiya Line?

Tokyo’s subway is generally safe and well-monitored. Stations are brightly lit, with clear emergency intercoms and cameras. Keep valuables secure on crowded trains and platforms, especially around entertainment districts at night. If you miss the last train, licensed taxis are available near major stations; rides can be costly, so check the last-train time in advance.

Can I rely on English-language support at Hibiya Line stations?

Announcements and signage typically include English, and ticket machines offer multiple languages. Staff at large stations often have basic English ability and can assist with directions or fare issues. For navigation, pairing station codes (e.g., “H-04 Roppongi”) with a map app is very effective.

What is the best way to pay if I plan to combine JR, Tokyo Metro, and private railways?

Use a rechargeable IC card like Suica or PASMO. It works seamlessly across JR, Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and most private railways and buses in Greater Tokyo. You only need to tap in and out; fares are handled automatically even when you mix multiple operators in a day.

Are there good food and shopping options directly connected to Hibiya Line stations?

Yes. Ginza stations connect into department stores and underground malls. Roppongi links to large complexes like Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, both filled with restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. Ebisu and Naka-Meguro feature stylish cafés and izakaya near the ticket gates, while Ueno opens to Ameyoko’s vibrant market streets.

Any tips for families or first-time visitors using the Hibiya Line?

Travel off-peak where possible, plan rest stops (parks, cafés), and choose stations with straightforward transfers. For kids, Ueno Zoo and open spaces in Ueno Park are ideal. Consider a subway pass for predictable budgeting, and save station codes to your phone for quick platform checks. If traveling with a stroller, use elevators and wide gates; station staff can help if you’re unsure of the best route inside large hubs.

What should I do if there is a service delay on the Hibiya Line?

Delays are posted on station monitors and in-train displays. If a disruption occurs, consider alternatives: the Ginza Line runs parallel for parts of central Tokyo, and the JR Yamanote Line can bridge gaps between Hibiya Line districts. Apps will suggest detours—just follow transfer signs carefully and allow additional time.

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