Chiba Urban Monorail is a monorail system serving the city of Chiba in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. This elevated system features trains suspended from an above-ground track, providing an experience similar to a roller coaster ride.
The system is also known as a monorail. It carries around 45,430 passengers a day. Unfortunately, there is no information on fares. It doesn’t operate 24 hours a day and there is no air conditioning. It is not possible to walk between platforms and the trains are not driverless.
There are no screen doors on the platforms. The service is operated by Chiba Urban Monorail Co., Ltd. Operating hours are 6:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Sunday. The fare is 170 yen.
Chiba Metro Map
Map of Chiba Metro showing different lines. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Chiba Metro map in PDF format.
The Chiba Monorail
Overview
The system currently comprises two lines, 18 stations and 15.2km of track. It holds the distinction of being the longest suspended monorail in the world, as documented in the Guinness Book of Records. Often referred to as the Twoliner, this modern and advanced monorail system uses an award winning monorail car model, the Urban Flyer. Notable features include a glass floor in the driver’s cabin.
In operation since 1988, the system is managed by Chiba Urban Monorail Co. Ltd manages the system. Over 45,000 passengers use these monorails daily, connecting key locations such as downtown Chiba, JR stations and Chiba Port.
Historical Context
Chiba, the prefectural capital of Chiba Prefecture, serves as a regional hub east of Tokyo. Between 1940 and 2000, its population increased tenfold. This led to residential and commercial development in the western part of the city, creating the need for additional public transport.
Given the lack of space at ground level, a suspended monorail system was proposed. The initial design was completed in 1975. Line 2, which runs from Chishirodai Station to Sports Center Station, was opened in March 1988. The sections from Sports Center to Kencho Mae and Chiba Minato opened in March 1999. The system is a joint venture between Chiba City and Chiba Prefecture.
Lines and Stations
The system includes two lines, both double track, and several stations with elevated platforms up to six storeys high. These lines offer numerous transfer opportunities and cover various tourist attractions such as the Chiba Zoological Park and the Chiba Port Tower, as well as major business districts. These lines provide direct connections from Chiba Station to Narita International Airport. The aluminium trains, powered by 1500V DC, consist of two carriages, although four-car trains are occasionally used during peak periods. Each train has a passenger capacity of 42.
Line 1
Line 1 operates between Chiba Minato Station and Kencho-mae Station, covering six stations along a 3.2km route. A full journey on this line usually takes around 5 minutes. It provides connections to several East Japan Railway (JR East) lines and the Chiba Urban Monorail Line 2.
Stations on Line 1 include Chiba-Minato, Shiyakusho-Mae, Chiba, Sakaechō, Yoshikawa-Kōen and Kenchō-Mae.
Line 2
Line 2 runs from Chiba Station to Chishiro-dai Station. The line has 13 stations along 12.0 km of track. A complete journey on this line takes approximately 20 minutes and provides connections to Line 1 and JR East.
The major stations on Line 2 are Chiba, Chiba-Kōen, Anagawa, Sports Centre, Dōbutsu-Kōen, Tsuga, Oguradai, Chishirodai-Kita and Chishirodai.
Future Expansions
While there were plans to extend Line 1 by a further 3.4 km and add six stations between Chiba Municipal Aoba Hospital and Kenchō-mae Station, this was cancelled due to low profitability. Future plans may include extending Line 1 to Chiba University, with the long-term goal of extending the line up to 40 km.
Operating Hours
The Chiba Urban Monorail operates from 6am to 12am. On weekends and holidays, trains start a little later. A train arrives every 15 minutes, with a higher frequency during rush hours. You can access the train timetable here.
Fare and Tickets
Fares are calculated according to the distance travelled and range from 170 yen for 1.9 km to a maximum of 430 yen. Children’s fares are half the adult fare and discounts are available for the disabled.
Fare payment methods include single tickets, Suica and PASMO smart cards, which can be purchased from ticket machines at stations. In addition, various passes offer discounts on fares, including a 2-day free pass, a holiday free pass and a lunchtime free pass. The 2-day pass costs 1000 yen for adults and is valid for two consecutive days. The Holiday Pass costs 600 yen and is valid on weekends and public holidays. The lunchtime pass, also costing 600 yen, is valid from 10am to 6pm on weekdays.
To calculate your Chiba Monorail fare, click here.
Facilities and Services
Chiba Urban Monorail offers the following services to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for passengers:
- Safety: Thick metal cables protect the monorails from falling, and numerous evacuation options are available in the event of an emergency or accident.
- Accessibility: Monorails are designed to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
- Parking: Both free and paid parking is available for bicycles and cars near each station.
Rules
It’s important for passengers to familiarise themselves with the rules of the Chiba Monorail in order to avoid violations.
- Be sure to carry the appropriate tokens when purchasing tickets from vending machines.
- Do not rush to board the trains. Allow other passengers to disembark before boarding.
- It is strictly forbidden to carry flammable objects in stations or on trains.
- It is an offence to travel without a valid ticket.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you maximise the benefits of the Chiba Urban Monorail:
- If you’re confused about the fare, need travel advice, or need assistance with ticket entry points, don’t hesitate to approach the station staff, both armed and unarmed.
- You can reserve a ride for a personal or professional occasion.
- Small monorail souvenirs are sold at station windows and from outside vendors. These can make a unique addition to your personal collection.