When danchi (public housing complexes) began to appear in and around Tokyo during the mid-1950s, so did shopping areas designed to cater for the new residents. Some tower blocks had shops on the ground floor, whereas little areas of commerce naturally evolved near others. Public spaces that back in the day would have been bustling with local families, but changing shopping habits, as well as a massively altered demographic, have caused many of them to slowly fall into dereliction and disappear. A sad fate that the district below also seems destined for.
Matt says
I love these areas of Tokyo when I visit and find them fascinating. I’m wondering your thoughts on what lies ahead for these areas and why they don’t seem to be becoming gentrified?
Thanks for always posting!
Lee says
You are very welcome!
What lies ahead is sadly most of them disappearing. The buildings are old and mostly beyond repair. As are the owners to put it bluntly. And understandably their kids generally don’t want to take over such a business.
As for gentrification, it does happen in some areas. Somewhere perhaps more centrally located, or in an increasingly popular, or newly fashionable place. But most of the time they are just unceremoniously demolished to make way for new apartments or houses…
Stephan says
This is such an interesting series, I can’t get enough of the opening shot. That sign is just the best!
Lee says
Thank you. Very happy with the first shot for that very same reason. As signs go it’s definitely a really good one!