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When you ride the Toei Oedo Line, have you ever thought, “Is the train a bit narrow?” At times, the aisles can feel completely filled with standing passengers holding on to the straps. In fact, this compact design has its roots in the early planning stages.

Originally, the line was supposed to be built according to standard subway specifications. However, after the 1973 oil crisis, construction costs had to be reconsidered. The “small-scale subway” concept was adopted, reducing the cross-sectional size of the trains by half. As a result, construction costs were cut by about 20%.

In addition, the Oedo Line introduced “linear metro” technology, which uses electromagnets and reaction plates to propel the trains. This system also contributed to the trains’ lower and more compact design.

Currently, the line operates as far as Hikarigaoka, but there are plans to extend service toward Tokorozawa in the future.
“Narrow but distinctive” — the Oedo Line remains one of the most unique players in Tokyo’s transportation network.

References:

• Why Are Oedo Line Trains So Narrow? (Norimono News)

• About the Extension of the Toei Oedo Line (Nerima City Official Website)