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HOME Tokyo and Surroundings Tokyo Shibamata / Kita-Senju / Kameari From Haneda to Monchhichi's Hometown! Scenic Monorail Ride & Katsushika 'Old Downtown' Walk
From Haneda to Monchhichi's Hometown! Scenic Monorail Ride & Katsushika 'Old Downtown' Walk

From Haneda to Monchhichi's Hometown! Scenic Monorail Ride & Katsushika 'Old Downtown' Walk

  • Written by: Guest Contributor
Date published: 27 February 2026

Your Tokyo pop adventure can begin the moment you land! Since its debut in 1974, Monchhichi has sold over 70 million dolls in more than 30 countries. In 2026, this beloved character takes on a new role as the Tokyo Monorail’s “Panorama Ambassador,” welcoming travelers aboard a special wrapped train.

What’s usually just airport transport becomes a scenic highlight. And if you continue on to Shin-Koiwa in Katsushika Ward, Monchhichi’s birthplace, you’ll discover a charming downtown neighborhood that feels worlds away from central Tokyo.

Table of Contents
  1. Start Strong: Scenic Views on the Tokyo Tokyo Panorama Line
  2. Visit Shin-Koiwa, Monchhichi’s Hometown (About 20 Minutes from Hamamatsucho)
  3. Don’t Miss: The World’s Only Monchhichi Park
  4. Access & Info
  5. Start Your Tokyo Story with Monchhichi

Start Strong: Scenic Views on the Tokyo Tokyo Panorama Line

Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.
Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.

Nicknamed the “Tokyo Panorama Line,” the monorail offers more than just convenience.

On the Monchhichi-wrapped 10000 series train, wide windows frame sweeping views of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge. On clear days, the contrast between blue water and glittering skyscrapers is unforgettable.

Near Seibijo Station, you can even see aircraft parked up close. It’s an unexpectedly thrilling sight right after arrival.

Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.
Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.

<Mountain Side - Car 1>
<Mountain Side - Car 2>

※All images are for illustrative purposes only.

Visit Shin-Koiwa, Monchhichi’s Hometown (About 20 Minutes from Hamamatsucho)

Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.
Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.

Transfer to the JR Sobu Line at Hamamatsucho and reach Shin-Koiwa in about 20 minutes. This neighborhood is home to Sekiguchi, the toy company founded in 1918 that created Monchhichi. At the North Exit of JR Shin-Koiwa Station, you’ll find “Monchhichi Square” with a bronze statue, along with themed manhole covers around town.
Traditional “shitamachi” streets and a globally loved character blend together naturally here, offering a refreshingly local Tokyo experience.

Monchhichi-designed Manhole Cover

Monchhichi Statue

Don’t Miss: The World’s Only Monchhichi Park

Don’t Miss: The World’s Only Monchhichi Park

Within walking distance from the station is Monchhichi Park (Nishi-Shin-Koiwa 5-Chome Park), built on the former site of Sekiguchi’s factory.
Playground equipment, tiles, and fences decorated with Monchhichi make it a fun photo stop. Across the street stands Sekiguchi’s headquarters, a reminder that this small neighborhood helped send a beloved character out into the world. It’s not a flashy tourist attraction. It’s a real community space, which makes the visit feel even more special.

Access & Info

Train Name: Monchhichi "Panorama Ambassador" Wrapped TrainRoute: Tokyo Monorail (Haneda Airport – Hamamatsucho)

  • Monchhichi Park
    モンチッチ公園
    • Address 5-2-4 Nishishinkoiwa, Katsushika City, Tokyo 124-0025
    • Nearest Station Access:
      Approx. 13 minutes by bus and walking from JR Shin-Koiwa Station.

      Bus: Keisei Town Bus Route Shinko 52 (新小52)

      Direction: From Shin-Koiwa Station Tohoku Hiroba (Northeast Plaza) to Ichikawa Station.
    • Monchhichi Zone Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (April to September)
      ※Opening hours vary during the winter season.

Start Your Tokyo Story with Monchhichi

Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.
Source/Main Image:Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd.

From panoramic airport views to cozy downtown streets, this route transforms simple transportation into a character-themed mini adventure. In 2026, why not begin your Japan trip with Monchhichi and explore a side of Tokyo that many visitors miss?

(Source/Main Image:PR Times)

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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