Yurikamome: The Driverless Line to Odaiba and Tokyo Bay

This guide explains how the automated Yurikamome line runs from Shimbashi to Toyosu, what to expect on the Rainbow Bridge crossing, and how to plan a ride.

Published October 19, 2026 at 10:25 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Yurikamome is an automated, driverless guideway transit line that runs about 14.7 kilometers from Shimbashi through Odaiba to Toyosu, with 16 stations. It opened in 1995 and is controlled entirely by computers, so the front windows face the track. A key landmark on the way is the crossing of the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay.

What Yurikamome is

Yurikamome is a rail line on Tokyo's waterfront that links the city center with the bay area. It runs from Shimbashi, a major junction near Ginza, to Toyosu, passing through the artificial island of Odaiba. The line is about 14.7 kilometers long and has 16 stations, numbered U01 at Shimbashi to U16 at Toyosu.

The line is also a good example of how Tokyo uses automation in daily transport. It is classed as an automated guideway transit system, which means small rubber-tired trains run on an elevated track with a guide rail, instead of the steel wheels of a regular railway. The line is operated by Yurikamome, Inc., a third-sector company, which means a joint public and private venture, connected to Tokyo Rinkai Holdings. It is a separate operator from JR and the subway companies, so its fares are charged separately from theirs. Its name refers to the yurikamome, the black-headed gull that is the official bird of Tokyo.

How a driverless train works

Yurikamome is fully automated and controlled entirely by computers, which is why no driver sits in a cab. Trains start, stop and open their doors on their own according to the central control system, while staff handle monitoring and passenger assistance. Announcements and station signs help passengers follow their progress along the route. The line opened on 1 November 1995, when the section from Shimbashi to Ariake began service, and was extended in later stages.

For passengers, the practical result is a quiet and smooth ride. Because there is no driver's compartment, the front window faces the track and is a favorite spot for people who like to watch the scenery approach. Seats at the very front and back are popular with children and railway fans alike, so you may need to wait for a train with a free place.

The route from Shimbashi to Toyosu

The line leaves Shimbashi (U01) above street level and calls at Shiodome (U02), Takeshiba (U03), Hinode (U04) and Shibaura-futo (U05) on the mainland side. It then crosses the Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba-kaihinkoen (U06), and continues through Daiba (U07), Tokyo International Cruise Terminal (U08), Telecom Center (U09), Aomi (U10), Tokyo Big Sight (U11), Ariake (U12), Ariake-Tennis-no-mori (U13), Shijo-mae (U14) and Shin-toyosu (U15) to Toyosu (U16).

Along the way, stations serve places that many visitors want to see. Miraikan, the science museum in the Aomi area, is about 20 minutes from downtown Tokyo by Yurikamome. Other stops serve waterfront parks, shopping areas and large event venues such as Tokyo Big Sight. At Toyosu, the line connects with the subway network, making it easy to continue into the city.

The Rainbow Bridge crossing

The Rainbow Bridge crossing lies between Shibaura-futo (U05) and Odaiba-kaihinkoen (U06). It is one of the most scenic moments on the line, with views over Tokyo Bay and, in clear weather, the city skyline. The approach to the bridge involves a looping section that lets the train gain height, so riders often notice a long curving ride before the crossing begins.

For the best views, choose a window seat, or the front window if one is free. Daytime rides give wide views of the water and the harbor, and some riders prefer an evening ride to see the bay after dark. Weather matters: on a clear day the views can reach far, and on a hazy one the horizon may be soft. Keep your belongings close and follow staff directions if a train is crowded, and remember that photographs through the window may show reflections.

Stations and places worth knowing

Shimbashi, the starting point, is a junction where the line meets JR and subway lines, so it is a convenient place to board. Shiodome and Takeshiba are the next stops along the waterfront, followed by Hinode and Shibaura-futo, where office towers give way to harbor views. After the Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba-kaihinkoen (the name means seaside park) opens the way to the island's shoreline and promenade.

Further along, Daiba, Aomi, Tokyo Big Sight, Ariake and Toyosu, among others, each serve a different part of the bay area, from museums and shopping to exhibition halls and the newer waterfront districts. Station names are shown in English on the maps and signs, and each stop has a letter-and-number code, so following U01 to U16 in order is a simple way to track your progress. Check an official line map to match each name with the sights nearby.

Fares, tickets and passes

The operator's English site lists several ticket types, including regular tickets, commuter passes, group tickets and a discount for persons with disabilities. Fares depend on distance, and IC cards used for trains and buses in Tokyo are generally accepted on the line, but accepted cards and prices can change, so check the official fare page.

Because the line follows one main route from Shimbashi to Toyosu, it is easy to follow even for first-time visitors, with no complicated branches to remember. Visitors who plan several rides in a day may want to compare single fares with any one-day ticket that is on sale, which the official ticket pages can confirm. Combination tickets that include attractions in Odaiba exist from time to time, but they vary by season and provider. Do the math before buying, and treat any price quoted in an old guidebook with caution. The official page is the best source for up-to-date information.

Planning a day on the bay

A simple plan is to ride from Shimbashi to Odaiba in the morning, spend time at a park or a museum, and return in the evening for a different view. Families can combine Miraikan with a walk along the waterfront. Railway fans might ride the full line end to end, then take a subway to explore Toyosu or Ginza.

For families, the ride itself can be part of the outing, and a short trip on Yurikamome makes a gentle first excursion that does not require changing trains. Check opening days for any museum or event you plan to visit, since some close on certain weekdays. Allow extra time on weekends and event days, when trains and station areas can be busy. This guide shares general information; rules change, so confirm details with the official operator before you act. Rainy days can still work well, as indoor attractions are plentiful and the train windows give a dry view of the bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Yurikamome really have no driver?

Yes. The line is fully automated and controlled by computers, so trains operate without a driver on board. Staff monitor the system and help passengers. This is why the front window of the first car faces the track and is a popular place to watch the scenery.

Where does the Yurikamome line go?

It runs from Shimbashi to Toyosu through the artificial island of Odaiba. The line is about 14.7 kilometers long and has 16 stations, numbered U01 to U16. It crosses Tokyo Bay by the Rainbow Bridge between Shibaura-futo and Odaiba-kaihinkoen.

How are fares paid on Yurikamome?

You can usually pay with a regular ticket or a prepaid IC card, and the operator's English site lists ticket types such as commuter passes and group tickets. Fares depend on distance and can change, so check the official fare page before you travel.

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Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: The Yamanote Line: Tokyo's Loop Line and How to Ride It, Tokyo Museums for Families: Science, Nature, Trains and Hands-On Fun and Odaiba: Tokyo Bay's Waterfront Playground.