Study of Underground Space Utilization for Urban Renaissance Tokyo's Yaesu District

摘要

The Urban Underground Space Center of Japan ("USJ") studies city planning for Tokyo suitable for the Japanese capital, using underground spaces. In this study we focused on the Yaesu District, which lies east of Tokyo Station, where further development is expected to create a district serving as a gateway to Asia. This paper suggests three concepts for urban revitalization of the Yaesu District. The first is to create a Center for international finance services. The second is to revive the street culture. The third is to produce a "Grand Central"function. Comfortable environment on the ground will be created through introduction of traffic and disaster management functions which effectively utilize underground spaces as well as formation of network. On the ground level, a social environment, which will include flowing water and a cover of rich greenery over the pedestrian area, will be created for people to relax and interact. Shallow underground will be used as a walkway and for movement of goods and information. Deep underground will include facilities for wider area traffic such as railways, and disaster prevention. This paper suggests a timetable for smooth development of the underground spaces. Furthermore, it suggests creating guidelines for smooth traffic between above-ground and underground, and between private land and public space.