Hitachi Rail

Tokyo Monorail

The Tokyo Monorail connects Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) to JR East’s Hamamatsucho. The monorail is operated by Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd., which is jointly owned by JR East, Hitachi, and All Nippon Airways (ANA).

The lead trailers, which include the driving cab of the six-car train, are without a traction motor to reduce the overall weight of the train. The car body is fabricated using Friction Stir Welded Aluminium alloy panels which offer exceptional strength alongside a lightweight design.

Passenger accommodation consists of a mixture of 4-seat facing bays and longitudinal bench seating, and includes luggage racks next to the doorways. LED lighting is used throughout for a welcoming and clean interior, whilst passenger information is provided by 17-inch wide LCD displays above the doorways. Passenger information is provided in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

The 17.8-kilometer (11.1 mi) line serves 11 stations between the Hamamatsuchō and Haneda Airport Terminal 2 stations. It runs on a predominantly elevated north–south route that follows the western coast of Tokyo Bay.

    Technical Outline

    • Configuration: 6 cars/train
    • Vehicle Length: 20m
    • Door Type: Sliding Plug Doors
    • Maximum Speed: 80 km/h
    • Power Supply: DC750V
    • Cab Design: Central Driving Position
    • Interiors: Aisle-facing bench seats, forward and rear-facing seats, and seats in the centre of the aisle. The trains also feature extra space for hand luggage, as a convenience for air travelers. Wheelchair space and grab poles are easily located for elderly and disabled passengers. Dual axle bogie technology allows passengers to experience a barrier-free interior, so they are not interrupted by on-board obstructions seen on single axle bogie vehicles. LED illuminations throughout the interior reduce energy consumption by more than 30% against fluorescent lighting and super-wide views from both ends of the train enhance passenger experience.