Dive in Tokyo Season 4, Episode 21: Shibuya – The Labyrinth Nestled Within a Valley

1

Nihonbashi - The Mercantile Center of Old Tokyo

Nihonbashi is a district in downtown Tokyo centered on a historic bridge of the same name. We trace its development into a thriving hub of commerce whose mercantile spirit lives on today.

28 min

2

Nakano - From Dog Sanctuary to Anime Wonderland

Home to manga, anime and toy stores, the Nakano neighborhood is famous for its subculture spirit. As we explore, we discover its rich past as a dog sanctuary, blossom-viewing spot and military hub.

28 min

3

Along the Setagaya Line - A Taste of the Slow Life

The Setagaya Line is a small but central streetcar line in Setagaya Ward. Join us as we explore a 450-year-old flea market, visit a temple brimming with cats and meet members of the community.

28 min

4

Marunouchi - A Marvel of Urban Planning

The Marunouchi district has repeatedly reinvented itself through large-scale development projects. We trace its evolution from a samurai quarter to an office district to a sophisticated business hub.

28 min

5

Haneda - Memories of Sky and Sea

Join us as we explore the Haneda district, best known for its airport. As we trace its history, we learn about its past as a fishing community and tourist destination famous for its ocean views.

28 min

6

Hamura - The Story of a Tranquil Waterworks Town

We visit Hamura in the upper reaches of the Tama River. In this tranquil town far west of the city center we trace the origins of Tokyo's water supply back to the age of the samurai, centuries ago.

28 min

7

Hino - The Granary That Gave Rise to Warriors

Hino in western Tokyo is known for irrigation canals and its past as a rice cultivating center during the Edo period. The fertile lands gave rise to the men who would form the legendary Shinsengumi.

28 min

8

Komagome - A Community United Under Cherry Blossoms

Komagome is the birthplace of Somei-yoshino, the most popular cherry blossom variety in Japan. We visit a scenic garden, meet locals who cultivate cherry tree saplings, and explore shopping streets.

28 min

9

Tateishi - A Riverside Town of Creative Manufacturing

Tateishi is a riverside neighborhood in eastern Tokyo that developed as a center of manufacturing. We learn about the local dyeing and toy industries and explore an old-fashioned shopping arcade.

28 min

10

Yoyogi - A Green Oasis in the Heart of the City

The Yoyogi area is sandwiched between bustling Shinjuku and Shibuya. We explore a sacred forest, a friendly shopping street, and more, finding ideas for sustainable urban living along the way.

28 min

11

Hachijojima - An Island Nurtured by Distance

The island of Hachijojima is a tourist destination that once served as a penal colony. We learn how the elements and the arrival of exiles and castaways helped shape unique industries and culture.

28 min

12

Ebisu – A Toast to the Brew That Binds

The popular Ebisu district developed alongside a brewery and even derives its name from beer. We trace the area's evolution, soak up its old-fashioned charm, and see what makes the community tick.

28 min

13

Gotanda – An Eclectic Town of Hills and Valleys

Gotanda is a hilly district shaped by the Meguro River. It's home to high-end residential areas as well as low-lying areas with an industrial past. It also has a growing reputation as a startup hub.

28 min

14

Kasai - The Power of Moving Water

Kasai is a bayside town in eastern Tokyo bounded by two large rivers. Join us as we trace its history as a hub of water transport, go river fishing, and get to know the local Indian community.

28 min

15

Daiba – From Defensive Forts to Innovation Hub

We trace the ongoing evolution of the Daiba waterfront district, which began as defensive fortifications and transformed over time into a tourist destination, residential area, and innovation hub.

28 min

16

Otsuka - A Hidden Gem Regains its Sparkle

Otsuka was a busy terminal of Tokyo's historic streetcar network before being overshadowed by its neighbor Ikebukuro. But international residents and redevelopment are now revitalizing the town.

28 min

17

Ryogoku – A Resilient Neighborhood with Sumo Spirit

Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo. As we explore, we learn how the sport took root after a devastating fire in the 17th century. It turns out that the neighborhood has a history of bouncing back!

28 min

18

Karuizawa – The Story of a Beloved Mountain Retreat

Karuizawa in Nagano Pref. is a mountain town with deep ties to Tokyo. Originally a bustling lodging town, a Western missionary's love for the area paved the way for its rebirth as a summer getaway.

28 min

19

Hinohara – Ridge Trails as a Way of Life

Hinohara is a mountain village located along the border between Tokyo and Yamanashi Prefecture. We explore its ridge trails, which served as a lifeline for local settlements throughout the centuries.

28 min

20

Kagurazaka – Alleys That Gave Rise to a Cultural Legacy

Kagurazaka is a neighborhood in central Tokyo that retains an old-school charm. We explore cobblestone side streets, meet a geisha community, and see how locals are blending tradition and modernity.

28 min

21

Shibuya – The Labyrinth Nestled Within a Valley

Shibuya is nestled at the bottom of a valley shaped by rivers. Join us as we trace how its unique topography gave rise to a multi-level transportation hub and ever-evolving arts and culture.

28 min

22

Mt. Takao - A Sanctuary for Faith and Nature

Join us for a hike up Mt. Takao in western Tokyo, said to be the most visited peak in the world. Along the way we'll learn about its samurai history, connection to Mt. Fuji, and abundant nature.

28 min

23

Nippori – Steeped in Scenic Charm and Fabrics

Nippori is known as one of Japan's top districts for textiles. The hillsides are home to many Buddhist temples that historically became sightseeing spots known for nature and picturesque views.

28 min