Tokyo’s train stations are famous for their departure melodies - short musical jingles that play when a train leaves a station. Each station on the city’s extensive rail network has its own distinctive tune, creating a unique soundscape that signals the start of a journey. These melodies are designed to soothe passengers, catch attention, and add a touch of local character to the daily commute. For locals and tourists alike, they’ve become an iconic part of the Tokyo experience.
To bring this auditory experience to the web, I've created the interactive Yamanote Line Map. The map shows the full circular route of the Yamanote line and animates a train moving along it. As the train arrives at each station, you can hear the authentic departure melody for that stop. It’s a playful way to explore the line, learn the order of stations, and enjoy the distinctive sounds that make Tokyo’s railway system so charming.
This interactive map was inspired by the website Yamanotes, which showcases the Yamanote Line and its station melodies in a simple, elegant format. My version just adds a map with an animated train, allowing you to imagine that you are actually traveling the Yamanote line yourself (if you have a very vivid imagination).
Also See
Mini Tokyo 3D - for the full real-time animated Tokyo transit experience
No comments:
Post a Comment