Toden Omoide Hiroba, Arakawa

Toden Omoide Hiroba, located in Tokyo's Arakawa ward, preserves the memory of the city's once-extensive streetcar network through two vintage trams displayed in a space designed to recreate the atmosphere of a historic tram station. Tokyo was once covered by numerous streetcars, known as chin chin densha for the distinctive sound of their bells, but most were removed during the 1960s. This memorial square stands as a testament to the golden age of Tokyo's public transportation, when streetcars served as the backbone of urban mobility across the metropolis.

The first vehicle on display is the 5500 series car number 5501, manufactured in 1954 and featuring a unique streamlined body that incorporated the latest American streetcar technology. Known as a PCC Car for its high performance including low noise and high acceleration, this American-style tram operated on Route 1 between Shinagawa-ekimae Station and Ueno-ekimae Station. The vehicle served this route from 1954 to 1967. The second exhibit is the old 7500 series car number 7504, built in 1962 and known affectionately as Gakuen-go or School Number for its service transporting students during morning rush hours in its final years. This tram features a distinctive orange body with dark navy lines that evokes the nostalgic character of mid-century Tokyo.

Inside the PCC Car, visitors can freely explore a mock driver's cab, control panel, a diorama depicting the Tokyo Sakura Tram route, and display cases of historical materials. A Memorial Diorama created with the theme of the worldview in the 1950s to 1960s when trams flourished is housed within the tram on display. The exhibits provide an immersive experience of Tokyo's transportation history, allowing guests to appreciate the technological innovations and daily life of the era when streetcars dominated the city's streets.

The memorial square is located close to Arakawa-shakomae Station on the Tokyo Sakura Tram, the sole remaining streetcar line in Tokyo. Arakawa-shakomae Station opened on April 1, 1913, and is located 4.6 kilometers from the starting point at Minowabashi Station. Visitors can reach the site via the Tokyo Sakura Tram, which operates at a flat fare of 170 yen for adults or 165 yen with IC smartcards such as Suica or Pasmo. There is no parking lot at the facility, and visitors are encouraged to use the Tokyo Sakura Tram to access the site. Admission to Toden Omoide Hiroba is free, making it an accessible attraction for anyone interested in Tokyo's transportation heritage.