Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo - In search of Human Scale in the city
Can we find good human scale development in a mega city like Tokyo?
After a seven-year hiatus, I had the pleasure of revisiting Japan during my recent trip to Asia. While I may not claim to be wiser, the passing years have certainly made me older. One of the joys of returning to a city is the chance to reflect on past experiences and plan your itinerary accordingly. This allows you to revisit familiar places and discover new ones that may have been overlooked previously.
My fascination with Japan, particularly Tokyo, dates back to my childhood. Growing up in Hong Kong, the influence of Japan was evident in various aspects of daily life, from fashion and food to technological innovations. The allure of Japanese culture and its representation has always fuelled my curiosity and desire to explore it further.
On a more personal level, I was immersed in the world of anime and manga from a young age. These mediums depicted different facets of Japan, from the serene countryside portrayed in "My Neighbour Totoro" by Studio Ghibli to the futuristic metropolis of Tokyo in "Akira." These films painted a vivid picture of Japan, particularly Tokyo, ranging from friendly neighbourhoods to towering skyscrapers illuminated by neon lights.
As a result, I harboured a deep longing to experience Tokyo firsthand, envisioning a technologically advanced city bustling with activity and never-ending energy. The anticipation of exploring this dynamic and vibrant metropolis has only grown stronger over the years.
The stark contrast between the reality of Tokyo and the image I had in my mind was immediately apparent upon my arrival. However, the vibrant energy of the city, its bustling activities, and the captivating lights left a lasting impression on me.
One of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks is the Shibuya scramble crossing, known for being one of the first pedestrian crossings that allows people to cross in multiple directions, including diagonally. This innovative design was necessary due to the sheer volume of pedestrians using the junction, making it a groundbreaking and unconventional solution at the time.
I have always been intrigued by urban phenomena like the Shibuya scramble crossing, approaching it from an urbanist perspective to understand its significance. During my visit this year, I was captivated by the evolving landscape of Shibuya, with new high-rise developments like the Shibuya Sky offering an observation deck on the 47th floor for public viewing. As with many observation decks around the world, the Shibuya Sky quickly became a popular spot for Instagrammers seeking the perfect backdrop for their photos. While others were preoccupied with capturing selfies against the Tokyo sunset, I found myself drawn to the view overlooking the bustling pedestrian crossing below.
My visit to the Shibuya Sky coincided with the evening sunset, providing a stunning backdrop of the Tokyo skyline. While the crowds were busy snapping selfies, I found myself mesmerised by the intricate dance of pedestrians below, contemplating the best way to capture the essence of this urban spectacle through photography.
Photographically, the scene came to life as the sun set and the lights from the buildings illuminated the crossing, creating a striking contrast between the dark tarmac and the white pedestrian crossing lines. The surrounding buildings added to the ambiance, making the moment truly captivating.
When capturing this scene, there is no right or wrong way to approach it. The photo could focus on the pedestrians, resembling ants from a distance, patiently waiting for the lights to change. Alternatively, one could capture the initial surge of people, moving towards their destinations with purpose.
What has this got to do with human scale in the city you may asked? What does the concept of human scale in urban design truly mean? This question resonates deeply within the ongoing discourse in the UK, where well-meaning urbanists, academics, and even some right-wing think tanks advocate for developments that prioritize a human-centric approach.
On the surface, this narrative appears commendable; after all, fostering discussions about enhancing our built environment and promoting good urbanism is essential. However, a closer examination reveals a troubling trend: many of the proposed solutions and exemplary models cited as benchmarks for "good human scale" predominantly originate from the UK, Central Europe, and North America.
These examples often showcase small to medium-sized buildings—typically no taller than six stories. While I appreciate these forms of urbanism and believe they should occupy a significant place in public discourse, I find myself questioning whether this represents the entirety of what constitutes good human scale globally. Is it reasonable to assume that these principles can be universally applied? Can we genuinely transpose the ideals of human scale found in Western contexts to high-density Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, or Shanghai?
After exploring Tokyo and Hong Kong, immersing myself in various neighbourhoods and experiencing the vibrant culture of these high-density cities, I began to question the notion of a singular definition of good human scale. My time in Shibuya, particularly while navigating the bustling pedestrian crossing and exploring the surrounding area, led me to believe that there are valuable lessons to be learned from the unique urban landscapes of Tokyo and Hong Kong.
In Shibuya, the sheer volume of foot traffic, facilitated by the efficient public transportation system of Tokyo, has given rise to a diverse array of activities and uses around the iconic crossing. While the sensory overload can be overwhelming at times, the richness of the experience is undeniable, as evidenced by the throngs of tourists flocking to Tokyo in recent years and the abundance of social media content dedicated to capturing the essence of the area.
For those who have yet to visit Japan or Tokyo, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on this journey to discover the wonders of this remarkable country. From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene countryside regions, you will encounter familiar elements of good human scale found in European and American cities, as well as be pleasantly surprised by the dynamic offerings of a mega city like Tokyo, where the convergence of people and activities creates a unique and enriching urban experience.
In essence, Tokyo offers a different perspective on what constitutes good human scale, one that is equally valid and instructive for our own urban environments. It is a place where lessons can be learned and inspiration can be found, shaping our understanding of how cities can thrive and evolve in harmony with their inhabitants.
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