Yamato Line Iconic Train Service Around Tokyo Is 100 Years Old

JAKARTA - The Japanese JR East train operator on November 1 celebrated the 100th anniversary of the operation of the iconic Yamato Line train service that surrounds the center of Tokyo.

Connected to private rail lines operating from the outskirts of the city, crowded commercial areas are formed around centers such as Shinjuku and Shibuya Stations, and lay the foundation for the construction of the capital.

The re-development of the route continues to this day, and its status as the main Tokyo route, which transports many people every day, remains unchanged.

JR East held a warning event using a train wrapped in the design of the past train. The train departed from Ikebukuro Station and completed a full round in about an hour.

"Time has passed so fast, both for children and adults," said Asuka Watanabe, a resident of Tokyo's Shinagawa District, who took the train with his two-year-old son, as reported by Kyodo News November 5.

"His retro design feels nostalgic," said Kazuki Fujimoto of Machida while attending the event with his 5-year-old son and liking the green color of the train.

This line operates with an interval of about two to three minutes during peak hours along a 34.5 kilometer route.

The Takannawa Gate is opened in 2020 as the first new station in 49 years, bringing the total number of stations on this route to 30.

According to the operator, the Yemenote Line service began operating in 1885 and crossed the western part of Tokyo's city center.

This line continues to expand its parts and in 1925 it forms a circular path when the flyover between JR Ueno and Tokyo stations is completed.