Asakusa Line Guide: Complete Traveler’s Handbook

The Toei Asakusa Line (都営浅草線, Toei Asakusa-sen) is one of Tokyo’s most practical and internationally connected subway lines. Opened in 1960, it was the first subway line in Japan to offer through-service with private railway companies, making it a vital link for both daily commuters and international travelers. The line runs from Oshiage in the northeast to Nishi-Magome in the southwest, passing through major hubs such as Asakusa, Nihombashi, Shimbashi, and Shinagawa. Because of its strategic connections, the Asakusa Line is often regarded as the “gateway to Tokyo” for visitors arriving from Narita and Haneda airports.

In this guide, we’ll cover the history, route, major stations, transfer options, airport access, tips for using the line, and why the Asakusa Line is essential for anyone navigating Tokyo or traveling beyond.

Overview of the Asakusa Line

  • Operator: Toei Subway (Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation)

  • Line color: Rose pink (sometimes referred to as salmon pink)

  • Line symbol/code: A

  • Number of stations: 20

  • Total length: 18.3 km

  • Endpoints: Oshiage Station (northeast) – Nishi-Magome Station (southwest)

The Asakusa Line is not just a local subway. It connects directly with several other railway lines, allowing passengers to ride through without changing trains. For example, you can board in Narita Airport on a Keisei train, continue onto the Asakusa Line, and then connect to Keikyu trains bound for Haneda Airport or Yokohama. This makes it one of the most unique and versatile lines in the Tokyo network.

Key Features

1. Direct Airport Access

The Asakusa Line provides convenient, direct access to both Narita Airport and Haneda Airport thanks to its through-services:

  • Keisei Line (Narita Access): From Oshiage, trains connect to the Keisei Main Line and Narita Sky Access Line, reaching Narita Airport in around 60 minutes.

  • Keikyu Line (Haneda Access): From Sengakuji Station, trains continue directly to Haneda Airport in 20 minutes.

This dual-airport connectivity is one reason many travelers prefer accommodations along the Asakusa Line.

2. Cross-City Connection

The line runs diagonally across central Tokyo, linking neighborhoods from northeast to southwest. For tourists, it passes through historical Asakusa, the shopping hub of Nihombashi, and the business district of Shimbashi, before reaching Shinagawa for Shinkansen transfers.

3. First Subway to Offer Through-Services

The Asakusa Line pioneered through-service operations in Japan, connecting municipal subways with private railways. This innovation has since become a model for the Tokyo rail network.

Major Stations and Highlights

Oshiage (A20)

  • Attractions: Tokyo Skytree, Sumida Aquarium, Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex.

  • Connections: Hanzomon Line, Keisei Oshiage Line, Tobu Skytree Line.
    This is the northeastern terminal of the line and the closest station to Tokyo’s tallest landmark, the Skytree.

Asakusa (A18)

  • Attractions: Sensō-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sumida River.

  • Connections: Ginza Line, Tobu Skytree Line, Tsukuba Express (nearby).
    Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s oldest cultural centers, famous for its traditional atmosphere, street food, and festivals.

Nihombashi (A13)

  • Attractions: Core financial district, Mitsukoshi Department Store, traditional Edo culture.

  • Connections: Ginza Line, Tozai Line.
    Nihombashi has a mix of old Edo charm and modern commerce, with flagship stores and cultural sites.

Higashi-Ginza (A11)

  • Attractions: Kabuki-za Theatre, luxury shopping in Ginza.

  • Connections: Hibiya Line.
    Perfect for travelers looking to experience Tokyo’s luxury shopping and kabuki performances.

Shimbashi (A10)

  • Attractions: Salaryman nightlife, SL Square, access to Shiodome.

  • Connections: JR Yamanote Line, Ginza Line, Yurikamome Line.
    A bustling hub for dining, entertainment, and business.

Sengakuji (A07)

  • Attractions: Sengakuji Temple, resting place of the 47 Ronin.

  • Connections: Keikyu Main Line (toward Haneda Airport and Yokohama).
    This station is the key interchange to reach Haneda Airport quickly.

Shinagawa (A07 via Keikyu through-service)

Although technically accessed via Sengakuji, Shinagawa is a major hub:

  • Attractions: Aquarium, business hotels, shopping complexes.

  • Connections: JR Shinkansen (Tokaido), Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line.
    Essential for travelers heading west by bullet train.

Nishi-Magome (A01)

  • The southwestern terminus of the line. It is located in a residential area and is less touristy, but convenient for those staying nearby.

Connections to Other Lines

The Asakusa Line has strategic transfer points:

  • Oshiage: Hanzomon Line, Keisei Line, Tobu Skytree Line.

  • Asakusa: Ginza Line, Tobu Line, Tsukuba Express.

  • Nihombashi: Ginza Line, Tozai Line.

  • Higashi-Ginza: Hibiya Line.

  • Shimbashi: Yamanote Line, Ginza Line, JR Lines.

  • Sengakuji: Keikyu Line.

These connections make it easy to switch between sightseeing, business areas, and airports.

Airport Transfers in Detail

  • Narita Airport: Take a Keisei Skyliner or Access Express train that directly enters the Asakusa Line via Oshiage. Journey time is 55–70 minutes.

  • Haneda Airport: Take a Keikyu train via Sengakuji. It takes around 20 minutes from central Tokyo.

This makes the Asakusa Line a unique line that directly links both major airports without requiring multiple transfers.

Tips for Travelers

  1. Use IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): These make airport transfers seamless, even across different railway companies.

  2. Check Train Types: Limited Express, Airport Express, and Local trains may stop at different stations. Be aware of the type you board.

  3. Stay Along the Line: For visitors needing airport convenience, staying in Asakusa, Higashi-Ginza, or Shimbashi offers both sightseeing and airport access.

  4. Avoid Rush Hours: The line is heavily used by commuters between 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM.

  5. Tourist Passes: The Toei Subway 1-Day Pass is cost-effective if you plan to use multiple Toei lines in one day.

Why Use the Asakusa Line?

  • Direct connection between Narita and Haneda Airports.

  • Access to both traditional (Asakusa) and modern (Ginza, Shimbashi) Tokyo.

  • Convenient transfers to Shinkansen at Shinagawa.

  • Part of Tokyo’s first integrated subway–private railway system.

Whether you are arriving at the airport, sightseeing in Asakusa, or catching a bullet train, the Asakusa Line is one of the most useful subway lines in the city.

FAQs

What is the Toei Asakusa Line and why is it useful for travelers?

The Toei Asakusa Line is a Tokyo subway line running northeast–southwest between Oshiage (A20) and Nishi-Magome (A01). It is especially useful because of through-services with Keisei and Keikyu railways, which let you ride directly to Narita and Haneda airports without changing trains in central Tokyo. The line also crosses key sightseeing and business districts such as Asakusa, Nihombashi, Higashi-Ginza, Shimbashi, and Sengakuji, making it a convenient backbone for both first-time visitors and frequent travelers.

How do I recognize the Asakusa Line on maps and signs?

Look for the letter “A” inside a square or circle and a rose-pink (salmon) line color. Station numbers follow the pattern A01, A02, … up to A20. Platforms and wayfinding boards frequently show the line color, code, and station numbers together, helping you confirm you are headed in the right direction even if you cannot read Japanese.

What are the endpoints and how many stations are there?

The line runs between Nishi-Magome (A01) in southwest Tokyo and Oshiage (A20) in the northeast. There are 20 stations in total. Popular stops for visitors include Asakusa (A18) for Sensō-ji Temple, Higashi-Ginza (A11) for Kabuki-za and shopping streets, Shimbashi (A10) for dining and Yamanote transfers, and Sengakuji (A07) for quick access to Haneda via Keikyu.

Does the Asakusa Line go to Haneda Airport directly?

Yes, via through-service with Keikyu Railway. Board a train marked for Keikyu Airport Line or Haneda Airport from platforms that serve Keikyu through-trains (often around Sengakuji). Typical travel time from central Tokyo stations on the Asakusa Line to Haneda Airport is about 20–30 minutes, depending on where you board and the train type.

How do I reach Narita Airport using the Asakusa Line?

Use through-services with Keisei Railway. From the Asakusa Line side (especially around Oshiage), Keisei Access Express and other Keisei services continue directly toward Narita Airport. Travel time usually ranges from about 55 to 75 minutes, depending on the train and intermediate stops. This route is popular because you avoid complicated transfers in central Tokyo.

What is “through-service,” and how does it help me?

Through-service means trains run from one railway onto another without requiring passengers to change. On the Asakusa Line, this allows a single train to enter from Keisei (Narita side), cross the Toei Asakusa Line, and continue onto Keikyu (Haneda and Yokohama side). For travelers with luggage, it reduces stairs, platform changes, and stress—just verify the destination on the front and side displays before boarding.

Which station should I use for Asakusa sightseeing?

Use Asakusa Station (A18) on the Asakusa Line, which is convenient for Sensō-ji Temple, Nakamise shopping street, river cruises, and rickshaw rides. Note that Asakusa is also served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Tobu Skytree Line, but the Toei Asakusa Line station is well located for walking to the temple area. Follow signs for Kaminarimon Gate to reach the most iconic entrance.

What are the best transfer points on the Asakusa Line?

Key transfers include Oshiage (Hanzomon Line, Keisei, Tobu), Asakusa (Ginza Line, Tobu), Nihombashi (Tozai and Ginza Lines nearby), Higashi-Ginza (Hibiya Line), Shimbashi (JR Yamanote/Keihin-Tohoku and Ginza Line), and Sengakuji (Keikyu). If you are heading to the Shinkansen, transfer to JR at Shinagawa via Keikyu through-service from Sengakuji; it is one stop away onto JR territory.

How do train types differ (Local, Express, Airport Express)?

Local trains stop at every station. Rapid or Airport Express variants skip some stops to speed up cross-city and airport travel. Always check the stopping pattern on platform screens and the LED displays on the train itself—if your station has a white dot or check mark on the diagram, it is a stop; if it is blank or grayed out, that train will skip it.

Can I use Suica or Pasmo on the Asakusa Line and through-trains?

Yes. IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are universally accepted across Toei, Tokyo Metro, JR, Keisei, and Keikyu. Tapping in and out automatically calculates fares even when you ride through multiple companies. Keep your IC card topped up at ticket machines; you can switch the machine language to English and other languages.

Is there a day pass that covers the Asakusa Line?

The Toei One-Day Pass covers unlimited rides on Toei Subway lines (including the Asakusa Line), Toei buses, and the Toei Streetcar (Toden Arakawa Line) for one calendar day. If your itinerary focuses on Toei services (for example, Asakusa Line plus Oedo Line), this pass can be cost-effective. If you ride both Toei and Tokyo Metro heavily, a combined day pass may be better.

What are typical first and last train times?

First and last train times vary by station and direction, but trains generally start around 5:00 AM and run until shortly after midnight. For airport-bound rides, aim for earlier departures, leaving buffer time for any platform changes. Always check the live timetable on station screens before committing to a late-night journey.

How crowded does the Asakusa Line get and when should I avoid it?

Peak hours are roughly 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM on weekdays, particularly around business hubs such as Shimbashi and transfer points like Nihombashi. If you have large luggage, try to ride outside rush hours or use the first/last cars, which may be slightly less crowded. Standing near the doors with suitcases is common, but be mindful of boarding and alighting passengers.

What luggage and accessibility tips should I know?

Elevators and escalators are signed on platform maps; follow the universal symbols. Luggage racks are limited on standard commuter cars, so keep bags in front of you without blocking aisles. If you need step-free routes, look for elevator icons on the concourse and consider boarding near the cars that align with accessible exits (posted on station diagrams).

Where should I stay if I want easy airport access and sightseeing?

Consider hotels near Asakusa (A18) for classic sights, Higashi-Ginza (A11) for shopping and theater, or Shimbashi (A10) for nightlife and JR transfers. These areas balance tourism, dining, and quick links to both airports via through-services. Sengakuji (A07) is also practical for very early or late flights because it is the keystone for Keikyu trains to Haneda.

How do I get from the Asakusa Line to the Shinkansen?

Take a Keikyu through-train past Sengakuji to Shinagawa (JR). From Shinagawa, follow signs to the Tokaido Shinkansen gates. If your Shinkansen departs from Tokyo Station instead, you can transfer via JR lines from Shimbashi or use other subway interchanges, but Shinagawa is often the simplest for westbound bullet trains.

Are there tips for using live information and platform screens?

Platform monitors show train type, destination, and stopping pattern in both Japanese and English. LED strips above doors display the next stop and transfer options. If you see “Airport” or “Access Express,” confirm whether it is for Narita (Keisei) or Haneda (Keikyu) and ensure your stop is included before boarding.

What etiquette should I follow on the Asakusa Line?

Queue behind the platform markings, let passengers alight first, and keep backpacks in front in crowded cars. Set phones to silent and avoid speakerphone. Priority seating is reserved for those who need it; if the car is full and you are in a priority seat, offer it to elderly, pregnant, or injured passengers.

Can I rely on English signage and announcements?

Yes. Station names are displayed in English and Japanese, and many trains provide English audio announcements. Transfer guidance and exit maps are bilingual, often with clear icons for tourism spots, ticket machines, coin lockers, and restrooms. If you are unsure, station staff are accustomed to helping visitors and can point you to the correct platform.

What should I do if service is delayed or disrupted?

Check platform screens for delay notices and suggested alternatives. Because the Asakusa Line meshes with multiple networks, you often have backup routes: use the Ginza, Hibiya, or Tozai Lines for nearby cross-city travel, or switch to JR at Shimbashi. If you have a flight, leave extra time and consider routing via Keikyu or Keisei earlier in your journey to avoid tight connections.

Is there anything special to know about tickets from airports?

From Narita or Haneda, you can buy through-tickets or just tap with an IC card—both work across the connected lines. If you plan intensive travel on the same day, compare the total fare to day-pass options. Keep your ticket/IC handy at fare gates and avoid mixing magnetic paper tickets with IC entries on the same trip to prevent exit errors.

How can I plan efficient sightseeing days using the Asakusa Line?

Cluster sights by zones: morning at Sensō-ji and Nakamise from Asakusa, midday shopping and lunch around Higashi-Ginza, then evening food and nightlife near Shimbashi. Insert detours via transfers (e.g., Ginza Line for Shibuya/Omotesandō, Hibiya Line for Roppongi) and return to the Asakusa Line for an easy airport link at day’s end. This “hub-and-spoke” strategy minimizes long walks and redundant transfers.

What safety and late-night tips should I remember?

Stations are well-lit with clear CCTV coverage, and staff are present until the last trains. After midnight, service winds down—plan your final leg early if you must reach an airport or intercity hotel. If you miss the last train, consider licensed taxis or check if an overnight bus route fits your needs.

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