Tokyo Tram Guide: Setagaya Line, Sakura Tram, and Enoden Experiences

Exploring the Setagaya Line and Unique Tram Experiences in Tokyo

Travelling Quietly in Japan

When I travel, I prefer taking buses and trains to quiet, faraway places rather than walking through busy tourist spots. Watching the view from a seat is my favourite way to experience a city at a slower pace.

Back when I lived in Tokyo, I often took the Yurikamome Line to Odaiba. At that time, it was popular among tourists as a “must-try driverless monorail.” Despite the crowds, I managed to sit in the front carriage and quietly enjoy the cityscape.

However, after my recent trip in 2023, I noticed that Odaiba has become busier with new residential and commercial developments. These days, the Yurikamome feels more like a convenient transport option rather than a relaxing ride.

Historic Tram Rides: Enoden and Sakura Tram

Two of my favourite rides in Tokyo and nearby areas are the Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line) in Tokyo and the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) in Kamakura.

Both trams run through residential streets, offering a close look at local daily life. Sometimes, I even felt like I was passing through people’s private spaces.

They have been operating for over 100 years, and you can feel their history in the sound of the tracks and the less-than-smooth ride.

Although the facilities are old, I love how these trams preserve their original charm.

Trying the Setagaya Line

Since we had already tried the Yurikamome, Sakura Tram, and Enoden, we decided to explore the Setagaya Line this time.

The Setagaya Line connects Sangenjaya Station with Shimotakaido Station. Unlike the Sakura Tram or Enoden, it does not run on the road but on its own track, so it feels less like a tram and more like a light rail. It is also used mainly by locals, so it isn’t crowded with tourists.

We boarded the tram at sunset from Sangenjaya, went to Shimotakaido, and returned immediately because of the time. Although we didn’t stop along the way, the line passes through quiet residential neighbourhoods where you can experience the daily rhythm of Setagaya.

On the day we visited Setagaya, we had a Triangle Pass (click this link for details) and were busy travelling around western Tokyo, so we couldn’t fully enjoy the Setagaya Line.

👉This link introduces some recommended spots along the Setagaya Line, which can take up to four hours to visit. Check it out to see what you can do along the line.

Residential view from the Setagaya Line – the reflection on the window made it unclear.😢

Things to Do Around the Setagaya Line

Carrot Tower Observation Deck:

If you visit Sangenjaya Station, don’t miss the Carrot Tower. It has a free observation deck that offers beautiful views of Tokyo, especially at night.

Tokyo view from Setagaya, seen from the Carrot Tower.

Local Izakaya and Dining:

Sangenjaya is also renowned for its small izakayas and pubs, where you can enjoy a lively yet authentic atmosphere. We ended up eating dinner at Fukuichi, a restaurant specialising in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki with a Tabelog rating over 3.5. 

💬 In Japan, a Tabelog rating above 3.5 is considered very good. It’s rare to see a rating higher than 4 out of 5 on Tabelog. This differs from Google ratings, where a score of 3.5 is not generally considered very good.

A small alley near Sangenjaya Station – not just small izakayas, but also large Japanese pubs and restaurants. It’s a great area to get lost in.

Watching the chefs cook Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki on a large iron plate right in front of us was part of the fun. We tried one seafood and one pork okonomiyaki, and both were absolutely delicious. Hiroshima okonomiyaki is less common in Tokyo compared to Osaka-style, so discovering this local restaurant was a lucky find. The okonomiyaki was thick and filling—even two servings were more than enough.

The restaurant doesn’t have an English menu, and English conversation is limited, as it’s mostly frequented by local customers. The crispy outer layer, perfectly grilled yakisoba noodles, and generous portion of cabbage complemented the main ingredients—pork and seafood—very well. The sauce was well-balanced, neither overly oily nor salty, making each bite flavorful. The only downside was that it took some time to get served.

👉 Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki:

• Ingredients are layered rather than mixed in a bowl. - All ingredients are mixed in one bowl – that’s Osaka-style okonomiyaki.

• A thin flour sheet is cooked first, followed by cabbage, bean sprouts, and pork or seafood.

• Noodles and eggs are cooked separately and placed on top.

• Usually prepared by the chef instead of the customers.

Other Tram and Light Rail Experiences in Tokyo & Beyond

If you enjoy unique tram rides like the Setagaya Line, here are more options to consider:

Toden Arakawa Line (Sakura Tram)

The Toden Arakawa Line, also known as the Sakura Tram, is the last remaining streetcar in Tokyo, running from Minowabashi to Waseda. This 12.2 km route offers a leisurely journey through Tokyo’s traditional neighbourhoods, giving a unique experience as it runs in the middle of the road, allowing you to feel the city’s everyday life up close.

Enoden (Kamakura – Enoshima)

The Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) is a charming narrow-gauge railway that passes through historic temples, traditional neighbourhoods, and offers stunning views of the Shonan beaches. It’s a favourite for tourists and photographers who want a mix of culture and scenic beauty.

Tokyu Tamagawa Line (Near Tokyo)

Officially outside the Tokyo 23 wards, the Tokyu Tamagawa Line is a short commuter line connecting only six stations from Den-en-Chofu to Tamagawa. It’s ideal for a quick local ride through suburban neighbourhoods.

Kamakura Monorail (Shonan Monorail)

The Kamakura Monorail is a short suspended monorail ride of about 15 minutes. Unlike a tram, the rail is elevated, and the carriage hangs below it. This unique system provides a fun and scenic ride with beautiful coastal views, offering a completely different experience from regular trains or trams.

Chiba Urban Monorail & Retro Lines

For a more retro vibe, the Choshi Line and Kominato Line are excellent choices. Both lines have been operating for over 100 years and retain a nostalgic charm.

• Kominato Railway is especially famous for its beautiful seasonal views, making it popular with photographers.

• The older rolling stock and slower pace allow passengers to immerse themselves in the local scenery and historic atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Setagaya Line may not have the historical atmosphere of the Enoden or Sakura Tram, but it is still worth experiencing if you enjoy discovering quiet local neighbourhoods in Tokyo. Combine it with a visit to Sangenjaya’s Carrot Tower and a local izakaya for a perfect evening.

For tram and train enthusiasts, Tokyo and its surrounding areas offer a variety of unique rides—from driverless monorails to century-old streetcars—each providing a different glimpse into Japanese daily life.

💬 If you are looking for a place to travel by train near Tokyo, check out this link: a quiet train journey to Sawara, where you can experience the atmosphere of the Edo period.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.