[citation needed] The section between Katamachi and Shijōnawate became the first Japan Governmental Railways electrified line in Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto area in 1932, with electrification extended to Nagao in 1950.

Converted from a freight branch to a passenger route, the Osaka Higashi Line began service in 2008.

Trains from Nara via Kansai Main (Yamatoji) Line began operation to Amagasaki Station.

However, these through trains to Amagasaki have now ceased operation since March 2019, with the Osaka Higashi Line extension.

This link enables trains operated from Nara to the west, as Kobe, Himeji, and Sanda.