Definition
Yoyogi Station (代々木駅, Yoyogi-eki) is a railway and subway station located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. It is jointly operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and Tokyo Metro, serving the Yamanote Line and the Chiyoda Line, respectively.
Overview
Opened on 1 July 1909, Yoyogi Station functions as a major commuter hub within central Tokyo. The JR East portion lies on the circular Yamanote Line, providing rapid transit connections to key districts such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro. The Tokyo Metro component serves the Chiyoda Line, linking the station to destinations including Meiji-Jingumae (Harajuku) and Otemachi. The station is situated adjacent to Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine, and the National Stadium, making it a frequent access point for both daily commuters and event attendees.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Yoyogi” derives from the historical name of the surrounding area, which has been recorded since the Edo period. The kanji 代々木 can be interpreted as “generations of trees,” reflecting the area's past as a forested region. The station adopted this local toponym upon its establishment.
Characteristics
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Layout:
- JR East: Two island platforms serving four tracks (two for regular Yamanote Line services and two for passing or special services).
- Tokyo Metro: A single island platform with two tracks on the Chiyoda Line, located underground beneath the JR East facilities.
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Facilities: Ticket vending machines, fare gates compatible with IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.), escalators, elevators, and barrier‑free access. The station also includes waiting rooms, restrooms, and retail kiosks.
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Passenger Use: In fiscal year 2022, the JR East side recorded an average daily ridership of approximately 140,000 passengers, while the Tokyo Metro side handled around 70,000 daily boardings.
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Connectivity: Adjacent bus terminals provide local bus services; bicycle parking is available. The station is integrated into Tokyo’s extensive public‑transport network, allowing seamless transfers to other lines and modes.
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Surroundings: Notable nearby landmarks include Yoyogi Park (a large public green space), Meiji Shrine (Shinto shrine dedicating to Emperor Meiji), and the Japan National Stadium (venue for international sporting events). The area also hosts offices, hotels, and residential neighborhoods.
Related Topics
- Yamanote Line
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
- JR East (East Japan Railway Company)
- Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd.
- Yoyogi Park
- Meiji Shrine
- Shibuya, Tokyo
- Japan railway station numbering system
All information reflects data available from official railway operators and publicly released sources as of 2023.