Hibiya Okuroji

architechu

Guard City [Guard Under]
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The underside of Japan's elevated railways is not wasted. It is a well-known fact that Japan has a wide variety of trains and railways, all of which are quite complex. However, the space nestled under these elevated railways, known as "Guardshita" (meaning under the railway), is not familiar to many. Nowadays, in Korea as well, there are efforts to utilize the space wasted under elevated roads or railways, but it is difficult to find places that have thrived as commercial or cultural spaces like in Japan.
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What makes this particular space, "Yurakucho Guardshita" (the space between Yurakucho Station and Shimbashi Station that is forgotten under the elevated railway, close to the Ginza district), even more special is that it is one of the Guardshita spaces spanning all over Tokyo, with exceptional size and variety.
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This railway is an elevated railway completed with brick masonry in 1910.
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The underside of this railway is divided based on the unique point where it crosses vertically from the "Ginza district" to the "Yurakucho" station. On the right side of the intersection is the bustling "Guardshita Izakaya," a place frequented by many local Japanese workers. And on the left side, there are small exhibitions, design product retail shops, as well as general restaurants and a plaza where residents or visitors can have meals.
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As it is located under the railway, the noise from passing trams or trains is transmitted directly downwards. Instead of quiet contemplation, a unique environment is provided where people can talk freely and make noise in the narrow space. While exhibitions or quiet cafes do not allow for complete freedom from noise, it does bring about a unique experience that cannot be felt in a typical shared space. Of particular note here is that the general restaurants, exhibitions, and design shops on the left side are neatly arranged, while the Izakaya stores on the right are more "messy" in appearance, with tightly packed tables that require patrons to sit closely together.
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While it is the same space under the elevated railway, the left and right sides are used in completely different ways, and the scenes in the space are also divided. This means that depending on your preference, you can access the space that suits you at any time.
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As someone who enjoys experiencing the culture of different countries when traveling, I found this to be a fascinating experience. For those looking for exquisite Izakaya in Tokyo, I hope this story about "Guardshita" is helpful.
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📍Location | Yurakucho Station -> Underneath towards Shimbashi
⏰ Operating Hours | Varies by store