This video presents a complete front-view ride on Tokyo’s iconic Yamanote Line, recorded in December 2013 aboard the E231 series train (train set Tō508). Covering the entire inner loop, the journey starts at Shinagawa Station and travels clockwise via major stops such as Tokyo, Ueno, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya, before returning to Shinagawa. At the time, platform doors were only installed at a handful of stations (including Shin-Okubo, Komagome, Osaki, Ebisu, and Meguro), capturing the look and feel of the line before significant station renovations and before the construction of Takanawa Gateway Station.

Throughout the 34.5 km journey, viewers experience daytime cityscapes and rail operations at every station, stopping at each of the 29 stations on the loop. This was an era when the Tamachi Train Depot infrastructure was still visible, and the Yamanote Line was in the midst of major transitions. The video offers a nostalgic perspective for train enthusiasts and Tokyo visitors alike, highlighting changes to one of the busiest and most recognized urban railways in the world.

The video features synchronized GPS speed and location data, giving a precise sense of movement along the line, although slight deviations in tunnels or mountain areas may occur. The E231 series, which dominated the Yamanote Line in this era, is known for its reliability and comfortable rides, making this historical documentation valuable for those interested in Tokyo transit. Notably, at this time, Shinagawa and Shibuya Stations had not yet undergone large-scale renovations, and public station announcements were voiced by Eiji Tsuda, adding another period-specific aspect to the trip.

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo or are a fan of railway journeys, this complete 4K loop around the Yamanote Line provides an in-depth visual record of Tokyo’s urban development and transport history circa 2013. It’s an ideal resource for travelers seeking to familiarize themselves with major stops like Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and more, as well as the smaller stations in between. The Yamanote Line remains a vital artery for both locals and tourists, and this recording is a valuable snapshot of its not-so-distant past.