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Emergent Urbanism in Tokyo: Yokoch¨­, Zakkyo Buildings, Under-Elevated Infrastructure, Culverted Streets, and Dense Low-Rise Neighborhoods

Publish: February 27, 2023

Writer Profile

  • Jorge Almaz¨¢n (Co-author)

    Faculty of Science and Technology Associate Professor, Department of System Design Engineering

    Jorge Almaz¨¢n (Co-author)

    Faculty of Science and Technology Associate Professor, Department of System Design Engineering

What are Tokyo's greatest characteristics? And can we design cities that possess such excellent qualities? To answer these questions, the author has conducted years of surveys and research, writing this book with illustrations and photographs so that general readers can understand the findings.

The brilliance of Tokyo lies in its inclusive, adaptable, and diverse urban spaces. These are formed through the accumulation of tiny daily activities by citizens in various shapes and sizes. Their unique patterns and ecosystems have evolved independently, transcending the limits of government-led master plans and profit-driven corporate developments. This development is termed "Emergent Urbanism."

In this book, five of the most characteristic "emergent" urban patterns that form Tokyo's appeal are examined: Yokoch¨­ (alleys), Zakkyo buildings (multi-tenant buildings), under-elevated infrastructure, culverted streets, and dense low-rise neighborhoods. These patterns are built from the bottom up by citizens and form the core of Tokyo, characterized by intimacy, resilience, and dynamism.

However, Tokyo is now undergoing a dramatic transformation. Large-scale redevelopment is taking place in the city center, traditional streetscapes are being destroyed, and low-rise residential areas are being completely altered. These developments basically consist of architectural types where luxury condominiums or high-rise office towers sit atop commercial facilities like shopping malls. Through these redevelopments, much of Tokyo's diverse charm has been lost.

This book aims to present a direction for Tokyo's future that differs from large-scale redevelopment, from the perspectives of both Tokyo's history and its current strengths. The approach introduced in this book seeks to emulate and utilize the vitality of post-war Tokyo, which still remains in large parts of the city and laid the foundation for its unique character.

The underlying emergent urban design of Tokyo succeeds in creating vibrant, diverse, inclusive, and innovative urban spaces within this complex and seemingly chaotic metropolis. Amidst a monotonous redevelopment rush where skyscrapers and shopping malls are repeatedly constructed, now is the time to promote Tokyo's emergent urbanism.

Jorge Almaz¨¢n (Co-author)

Gakugei Shuppansha

224 pages, 2,640 yen (tax included)

*Affiliations and titles are as of the time of publication.

Writing Notes