Abstract: In view of the generally poor operation efficacy of domestic urban railways, the advanced efficiency improvement experience of urban railways and intercity railways in Tokyo metropolitan area is investigated and analyzed. Corresponding enlightenments are summarized as follows: the service level of urban railways is always taken seriously, and the form of small formation train + high departure density is adopted to provide transport capacity matching the period of small passenger flow demand; the design scheme of setting up stations according to passenger flow demand and adopting operation organization mode of combined express/local trains should be proactively discussed, to improve commuting efficiency; above-ground laying method should be given priority in consideration; the surplus transport capacity of intercity railway should meet metropolitan area commuting passenger flow demand. Under the premises of newly-built intercity railway and urban railway sharing route and one line capable of satisfying passenger flow demand of both, it is recommended to adopt intercity railway and make it accommodate urban railway function to save construction and transportation cost.