The Yamanote Line (山手線, Yamanote-sen) is one of Tokyo's busiest and most important train lines. Laid out in a circuit (connecting many important commercial centres in in the city). a full curcuit takes around one hour. Trains depart in both directions every two minutes at peak times.

Although this recording was made when the train was with packed with commuters, the only sounds are of the train moving through the tunnel. Japanese society places great emphasis on courtesy towards others in public spaces, so conversations are kept to whispers.