Songs of the Hibiya Line
Today we rode the Hibiya Line on the way to Shibuya to look for records. This train has some of the best sounds I have heard so far. Songs of the Hibiya Line are different at each station. Here is an official list of all the stations from end to end. If I ever travel to Tokyo again, I would like to do a more organized sound map of at least a few lines. It would be fun to go station to station and get good recordings of all the songs on the way, taking pictures of the trains and station interiors. Then again, I wonder who else besides me would be interested in such a document…wouldn’t stop me from making it though. The collection process is the most fun!
Our house was at Minowa Station of the Hibiya Line so this was the line I heard most often.
I enjoy using the Tokyo Metro system. The trains and stations are clean and cheerful. The sounds and maps and ticket machines all combine to add an air of fun to traveling within the city. I know that a tourist’s impression of local transit is not necessary the same as a daily commuters experience. But, I also got to ride a few times in the famous Tokyo rush hour and although you are crushed together like canned sardines, people are polite and cooperative.
If you enjoy subway sounds, check out this post from Seoul and this one from Busan.
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Iriya Coffee Stand
Every time I travel somewhere, I seem to find a coffee shop that I like and go there almost everyday. I guess I am a creature of habit where coffee is concerned. This is Iriya Coffee Stand. It is a hole-in-the-wall at the entrance of a residential building on a side street in Iriya.
The featured coffee changes everyday and is always good. I am not sure how the owner makes it…it is not espresso. I think she grinds each dose to order and hand presses the coffee or it may be pour-over. So, it takes a little time but it is always delicious. There are cute little snacks available as well.
The outdoor seating is in a little courtyard off the sidewalk and sheltered from the wind and rain so it’s comfortable even on a chilly morning. You can even wrap yourself in a blanket if you get cold. A nice warm way to start the day.
If you want to see more or come for a visit, here is their Instagram .
Update!! May 20th, 2025:
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Around Asakusa: Senso-ji Temple and Sumida River
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple is a short walk from our house. Masses of worshipers among clouds of aloes wood gather at the huge site. Lots of tourists in cute kimonos and cool little shops are all around. I bought some knit gloves here. It is cold and windy in Tokyo! Especially at night.
Here is a link to the official website where you can find more information including history and special events.
Sumida River Bank
Along the Sumida River: Tokyo Sky Tree and Asahi Breweries headquarters. This famous Tokyo building designed by Philippe Starck, is topped by the “Asahi Flame” (aka the Golden Poop). The main building is meant to resemble a tall glass of beer complete with foam head on top.
Everyday here is bright sun and blue skies so far…but chilly!
The Skytree is tall and imposing. From a distance, because of all the outer skeleton, it almost looks like it is made out of wood. Every city seems to have it pointy tower somewhere in the skyline and this is Tokyo’s most famous. It kind of resembles our CN Tower in Toronto but with more prominent bones! Here is a link to information in English for Skytree visits.
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