Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line: A Water-Blue Urban Oasis and Underground Art Tour

The Osaka Metro Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line, marked by its refreshing water-blue color, spans east to west across Osaka, connecting Taisho Station in Taisho Ward to Kadoma-minami Station in Tsurumi Ward. Stretching 15 kilometers with 17 stations, this line, opened in 1990, is Osaka's first driverless metro powered by linear motors. With the concept of an urban oasis, it links canal parks, commercial complexes, and underground art spaces, making it a unique route blending ecology and artistic vibes. Highlights Along the Line Shinsaibashi Station: Fashion Artery and Underground Maze As a transfer hub with the Midosuji Line, Shinsaibashi Station itself is an underground city. It extends into Crystal Nagahori underground street, where trendy boutiques and cafes gather under a glass dome. The ground-level exits lead directly to Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, where luxury flagship stores meet century-old shops. At night, take a stroll to the nearby Engetsu Bridge to enjoy the illuminated night view of the Dotonbori River. Nagahoribashi Station: Sakura Tunnel and Creative Market Though intersecting with the Sakaisuji Line, the Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line’s exit is closer to the Nagahori-dori Sakura Path. In spring, the 1.5-kilometer stretch of Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms forms a pink tunnel. A 10-minute walk west leads to Orange Street, lined with vintage furniture shops and trendy bakeries. On weekends, handmade markets often pop up, showcasing Osaka’s laid-back lifestyle. Kyobashi Station: Riverside Retreat in a Steel Forest Kyobashi Station is surrounded by office buildings in a bustling business district. However, crossing the pedestrian bridge leads to Neyagawa Park, perfect for morning jogs along the riverside trail. The rooftop garden of ODAKYU Department Store offers a secret spot to view Osaka Castle and Mount Ikoma. The station also hosts the Kyobashi Art Exhibition, with platform walls regularly featuring works by local artists, turning waiting into an aesthetic experience. Tsurumi-ryokuchi Station: Floral Memories and Nature Coexistence This station was established for the 1990 International Garden and Greenery Exposition. Exiting the station leads directly to Tsurumi-ryokuchi Park, a 126-hectare area preserving the iconic Flower Dome from the expo, where seasonal blooms rotate throughout the year. The Osaka Museum of Natural History within the park is famous for its giant dinosaur models, making it a must-visit for family outings. Hidden Gem: The Technological Aesthetics of Linear Motors The Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line uses linear motor technology, allowing trains to run almost silently and adapt to steep slopes. Pay close attention to station designs, such as the streamlined ceiling and blue light bands at Kadoma-minami Station, which reflect the theme of futuristic transportation. Tech enthusiasts can particularly note the unique structure of the tracks and wheels. The water-blue Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line is not just a daily commute route but a flowing exhibition redefining Osaka’s greenery and art. From the bustling fashion of Shinsaibashi, the riverside tranquility of Kyobashi, to the floral feast at Tsurumi-ryokuchi, this line weaves a multidimensional map of urban ecology and culture.