池袋駅

Ikebukuro began in 1903 as a stop on the national network before becoming the principal junction of northwestern Tokyo. Tobu and Seibu later established their terminals here, and the subway gradually rounded out the ensemble with the Marunouchi, Yurakucho, and Fukutoshin lines. The station anchors a dense district of department stores, cinemas, and cultural venues, notably around Sunshine City. Its various operators occupy sharply defined areas, connected by long underground concourses. This arrangement makes Ikebukuro a city within the city, but above all an essential gateway for the residents of Saitama and the suburbs served by the private networks.

A famous confusion awaits visitors: the Seibu department store sits on the east side of the station, while Tobu occupies the west side. The company names thus seem placed opposite the directions they suggest.

Opening

1903

Role

Gateway to northwestern Tokyo

Subway

Three Tokyo Metro lines