Tokyo's opened its first new subway line in seven years to connect some of the busiest parts of the city and ease congestion on what is the world's busiest subway system in the world and with the new Fukutoshin line, hopes to relieve congestion off its overcrowded lines.
The 20.2 km (12.6 mile) Fukutoshin Line connects the Ikebukuro and Shinjuku commercial and entertainment districts with Shibuya, a trendy shopping area popular with the younger set.
More info and pix after the jump.
City officials hope the subway will boost business along the new line while easing congestion on the JR East Yamanote Line that runs through the same neighborhoods.
"The new line will lead to the vitalization of Tokyo," Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara says.
The first train to use the new line departed just after 5 AM Saturday, full of railfans eager to be the first to ride. Commemorative souvenirs were sold at subway stations and local department stores held sales to commemorate the opening.
Trains take 11 minutes to travel the whole route on the express and 16
minutes on the local.
Tokyo expects 150,000 passengers to ride the the Fukutoshin line each day.
Photos of the Shibuya station on the Fukutoshin line by [Flickr user wajun](City officials hope the subway will boost business along the new line while easing congestion on the JR East Yamanote Line that runs through the same neighborhoods. "The new line will lead to the vitalization of Tokyo," Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara says.):
*Photos of the Shibuya station on the Fukutoshin line by Flicker user hirotomo. *
