Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the "METRO HOMEWAY ROMANCECAR"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Odakyu Electric Railway and Tokyo Metro's limited express train, the "METRO HOMEWAY ROMANCECAR," which connects stations such as Kita-Senju and Otemachi to Hon-Atsugi Station (direct service via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line). It covers timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket collection requirements, and IC card compatibility. This train is used as an access train for commuters returning home from central Tokyo to Kanagawa and Tama areas, and this article summarizes key points to check before using the service.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.

The "METRO HOMEWAY" is a limited express Romancecar that operates directly between the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and the Odakyu Line. Its greatest feature is that it allows passengers to return home from central Tokyo office districts such as Kita-Senju and Otemachi to the Kanagawa and Tama areas without changing trains. It mainly operates on weekday evenings and is popular with commuters who want a guaranteed seat for their commute. As the only Romancecar to run on subway lines, it uses the blue-bodied MSE (60000 series) train. All seats are reserved, so a limited express ticket (seat reservation) is required to ride. Because it connects central Tokyo with the Odakyu Line without going through Shinjuku Station, it is a train that greatly reduces the hassle of changing trains for commuters working in Otemachi and Kasumigaseki. There are other trains with similar names and destinations, so it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding.

What is "METRO HOMEWAY"?

"METRO HOMEWAY" is the name given to the nighttime southbound Romancecar trains that run directly on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. Since the introduction of the SE series in 1957, the Odakyu Romancecar has been a beloved symbol of the Odakyu Electric Railway. Currently, trains such as the GSE (70000 series), EXEα (30000 series), and MSE (60000 series) are in use. The MSE (60000 series) is a train designed for direct operation on subway lines and is characterized by its blue body known as Vermeer Blue. It is designed to comply with subway fire safety standards and is one of the few express trains that can run in underground sections. The morning northbound trains are given a different name, "METRO MORNING WAY."

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of the "METRO HOMEWAY" lies in the fact that you can return home from central Tokyo's business districts without changing trains and while remaining seated. You can board at Otemachi Station or Kasumigaseki Station, eliminating the need to travel to Shinjuku Station. All seats are reserved, ensuring a comfortable ride even during peak commuting hours. The blue body of the MSE (60000 series) train gives it a distinctive presence that sets it apart from other Romancecar trains. It is also a rare experience in Japan, as it is an express train running on subway lines. Some cars offer free Wi-Fi service, allowing you to make the most of your travel time. Tables are provided at the seats, so you can enjoy light meals on board. The express fare is set at a relatively affordable price, making it easy to incorporate into daily use.

"METRO HOMEWAY" Timetable

Downbound (towards Hon-Atsugi Station) Timetable

Timetable for Northbound Trains (towards Kita-Senju Station)

"METRO HOMEWAY" is a nighttime southbound train. There is no train with the same name in the northbound direction. Morning Chiyoda Line through trains operate as "METRO MORNING WAY".

The "METRO HOMEWAY" service operates in the evenings on both weekdays and weekends/holidays, but the starting station and number of trains vary depending on the day of the week. Please check the latest departure and arrival times and operating days on the Ekitan website or the official Odakyu Electric Railway timetable.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "METRO HOMEWAY" service has different operating frequencies and sections on weekdays and weekends/holidays. Because it operates as a nighttime southbound service, it does not run during the morning or daytime hours. Since the destinations are divided into Hon-Atsugi and Karakida, it is necessary to confirm the destination before boarding.

"METRO HOMEWAY" Operating Section

Main Sections

• Kita-Senju Station to Otemachi Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
• Otemachi Station to Yoyogi-Uehara Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
• Yoyogi-Uehara Station to Hon-Atsugi Station/Karakida Station (Odakyu Line)

Kita-Senju Station is a major terminal in northeastern Tokyo, served by the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Hibiya Line, and JR lines. Otemachi Station is located in the heart of one of Japan's leading business districts, adjacent to Tokyo Station. The area around Omotesando Station is a popular area with fashion boutiques and cafes. The area around Seijo-Gakuenmae Station is known as a quiet residential neighborhood. Shin-Yurigaoka Station is where the Odakyu Tama Line branches off, and the surrounding area is home to many cultural and commercial facilities. From Hon-Atsugi Station, you can access hiking trails to Mount Oyama and the Tanzawa Mountains. The area around Karakida Station is a residential area within Tama New Town. Since getting to nearby tourist attractions mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around the stations where you can obtain maps and brochures.

"METRO HOMEWAY" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Kita-Senju Station
• Otemachi Station
• Kasumigaseki Station
• Omotesando Station
• Seijo Gakuenmae Station
• Shin-Yurigaoka Station
• Hon-Atsugi Station

*Stations served may vary depending on the train.

"METRO HOMEWAY" Fares

Representative Section Fare

The fare shown is a one-way fare for an adult using a reserved seat. Please check the latest fares on the Ekitan website or the Odakyu Electric Railway official website.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Fare

The fare for "METRO HOMEWAY" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Since the journey crosses both the Tokyo Metro and Odakyu lines, the fare is the sum of both companies' fares. The limited express surcharge is set in stages depending on the section of the journey. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express surcharge. Private railway limited express surcharges are set according to the section of the journey and do not fluctuate with high and off-seasons like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just a basic fare ticket; you must purchase both.

When Crossing Between Tokyo Metro Lines and Odakyu Lines

The "METRO HOMEWAY" service operates directly between the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and the Odakyu Line, so the fare is the sum of the fares for both companies. It's important to note that even when using a Tokyo Metro one-day pass or an Odakyu free pass, they are only valid for the sections of their respective lines. Also, regardless of which special ticket you use, a separate limited express fare is required to ride the Romancecar.

How to Buy Tickets for "METRO HOMEWAY"

Romancecar@Club (Internet Reservation)

Odakyu Electric Railway's internet reservation service, "Romancecar@Club," allows you to purchase limited express tickets using a credit card. Registered members can utilize a ticketless service, boarding by simply showing their smartphone screen. Limited express tickets go on sale one month prior to the travel date. When making a reservation, you specify the travel date, section, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. In addition to credit cards, cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

 

 

Station Ticket Offices and Limited Express Ticket Vending Machines

You can purchase limited express tickets at ticket vending machines and ticket offices at major Odakyu stations. Since it may not be possible to purchase limited express tickets at Tokyo Metro stations, advance online reservations are recommended. Ticket vending machines often support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. During peak seasons, ticket offices can get crowded, so it's best to arrive with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies handle Odakyu Railway's special tickets and travel packages to the Hakone area.

How to Purchase for International Tourists

The "METRO HOMEWAY" is operated by Odakyu Electric Railway and Tokyo Metro, and is therefore not covered by the JR Pass. Odakyu Electric Railway and Tokyo Metro offer special tickets for international tourists, but in both cases, a separate limited express fare for the Romancecar is required. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

With the "Romancecar@Club" ticketless service, you can board without receiving a paper ticket. If you purchased your ticket at a station ticket machine or ticket office, you will need to carry a paper limited express ticket with you when you board. If you do receive a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up well in advance of your departure, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can I Use IC Cards or Credit Card Contactless Payments?

While you can use transportation IC cards such as PASMO and Suica on Tokyo Metro and Odakyu lines, only the basic fare portion is covered. Limited express fares cannot be paid using the IC card balance, so you must purchase a limited express ticket in advance. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their service area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

Seating Information for "METRO HOMEWAY"

Seat Types

The "METRO HOMEWAY" operates with all reserved seating. The train used is the MSE (60000 series). During high seasons, seats fill up quickly, so it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. You may be able to choose between window and aisle seats when booking. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The MSE (60000 series) is a train designed for through service to the subway and features a calm interior. While you can't enjoy the scenery from the windows in the underground sections, you can enjoy the night view along the route once you emerge above ground. The seats are equipped with tables and drink holders. Note that there are no front-facing observation seats like those on the GSE. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage Area

Some train cars have luggage racks at the ends. Please use those for large suitcases.

Barrier-Free Facilities

Some train cars have wheelchair-accessible seating. If you plan to use this service, we recommend contacting Odakyu Electric Railway in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on "METRO HOMEWAY"

"METRO HOMEWAY" does not offer in-car sales services. It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at shops in Kita-Senju Station or Otemachi Station before boarding. There are many shops selling bento boxes and prepared foods around Otemachi Station. Some passengers enjoy a drink on their way home, and the guaranteed seating on board allows for a relaxed journey. If you eat or drink on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding the "METRO HOMEWAY"

The "METRO HOMEWAY" is an all-reserved-seat train, so you cannot board without purchasing a limited express ticket. The destinations are divided into Hon-Atsugi and Karakida, so be sure to confirm your destination before boarding. There are sections of the subway line where cell phone signals are weak, so if you are using ticketless boarding, it is recommended to display the screen in advance. Seats can fill up quickly, especially on Friday nights, so early reservations are recommended. Even if you are using a Tokyo Metro one-day pass, a separate limited express fare is required. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number written on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments so as not to block the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The "METRO HOMEWAY" is a limited express Romancecar train that operates directly between the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and the Odakyu Line. Its greatest appeal is that passengers can travel from central Tokyo's business districts to the Kanagawa and Tama areas without changing trains and remain seated throughout their journey. The blue-bodied MSE (60000 series) train is a rare limited express train in Japan that runs on subway lines.

Enjoy a comfortable commute home with "METRO HOMEWAY," which takes you directly home from the city center.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors to Japan.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.