The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel
Explore Tokyo’s depths at this underground marvel of modern engineering
Tokyo, the bustling metropolis of japan, is not only known for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant city life but also for its innovative and advanced engineering projects. One such project that has garnered attention and fascination is the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, also known as the Kasukabe Underground Flood Protection Tank.
Located in the town of Kasukabe in Saitama Prefecture, approximately 20 miles from central Tokyo, this underground marvel serves as a flood diversion facility to mitigate potential disasters caused by heavy rain and typhoons. With Tokyo being a low-lying area and prone to flooding during the rainy season, the construction of this facility was crucial to protect the city and its residents.
The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is the largest underground flood diversion facility in the world. Its main purpose is to divert water from heavy rainstorms and prevent the streets in the watershed and urban areas from turning into rivers. The construction of this complex system began in 1993 and was completed in 2006, showcasing the dedication and engineering prowess of the Japanese.
The facility consists of a pressurized water tank and a tunnel system that runs 50 meters deep and stretches for 6.3 kilometers. This extensive network of tunnels and shafts acts as a drainage system, collecting and diverting water away from the city. It is an impressive feat of modern engineering, designed to handle massive amounts of water and protect Tokyo from potential flooding disasters.
One of the remarkable features of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is its massive size. The facility is composed of five enormous shafts connected by four miles of tunnels. Each shaft is large enough to house an entire Statue of Liberty. This scale is necessary to accommodate the volume of water that flows through the system during heavy rainfall.
Visiting the Kasukabe Underground Flood Protection Tank is an opportunity to witness the engineering marvel up close. Paid tours of the facility are available to the public, allowing visitors to explore the underground structures and learn about the building of the tank and disaster prevention measures. However, it is essential to book the tour in advance, as visiting times are restricted, and the facility is in high demand.
Safety is paramount at the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel. Visitors are required to be accompanied by a Japanese speaker and are provided with helmets and safety belts to ensure their well-being during the tour. The tour course may also be subject to change depending on the weather conditions, prioritizing the safety of the visitors.
Before descending into the underground facilities, visitors pass through the Ryukyukan Underground Exploration Museum. This museum provides valuable insights into the construction and functioning of the tank, offering a comprehensive understanding of the complex system. It serves as an educational hub, allowing visitors to learn about the engineering behind the facility and its significance in protecting Tokyo from floods.
Stepping into the underground structures of the Kasukabe Underground Flood Protection Tank is a surreal experience. The massive pillars and vast underground space create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels straight out of a science fiction movie. In fact, the facility has been used as a backdrop for various movies, commercials, and even as a design base for video games. Its unique ambiance adds to the intrigue and fascination surrounding this engineering marvel.
To reach the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, visitors can take a train to Minami-Sakurai Station on the Tobu Noda Line. The nearest major stations are Ueno Station and Tokyo Station, from where one can transfer to the Takasaki Line, Utsunomiya Line, or the shinkansen to Omiya Station. From Omiya Station, a transfer to the Tobu Noda Line will take visitors to Minami-Sakurai Station. From there, a short seven-minute taxi ride will bring them to the entrance of the facility.
It is important to note that the information provided here may be subject to change due to COVID-19. Therefore, it is advisable to check for any updates or restrictions before planning a visit to the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel.
In conclusion, the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel in Tokyo is a testament to Japan’s engineering prowess and innovation. This underground marvel serves as a crucial flood diversion facility, protecting Tokyo from potential disasters caused by heavy rain and typhoons. Its vast size, impressive tunnel system, and otherworldly atmosphere make it a must-visit attraction for those interested in modern engineering and infrastructure. The opportunity to explore the underground structures and learn about the disaster prevention measures adds an educational aspect to the visit. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel stands as a symbol of Japan’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, showcasing the country’s ability to overcome geographical challenges through ingenious engineering solutions.
Address And Maps Location:
720, Kami Kanasaki, Kasugabe-shi, Saitama-ken
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