Imagine taking a stroll through a quaint alley in Tokyo captured in a photograph from two decades ago. At first glance, it may appear ordinary, resembling countless residential neighborhoods with its familiar mix of cables, autumnal branches, telephone poles, and laundry hanging from first-floor balconies. On the ground level of Azabudai Hills, a vending machine and potted plants rest on a flight of stairs while a distant skyscraper and a few taller buildings punctuate the blue sky overhead.
© Kenji Masunaga
However, upon closer inspection, the scene reveals signs of neglect. Weeds have taken over the walls, barriers surround a garage, and a rusting fence stands as a testament to the passage of time. Yet, beyond the visible decay lies a more profound significance – the memories and connections that once defined this place for its residents. This is where the story of Azabudai Hills unfolds – a neighborhood born from the desire to rejuvenate a community, weaving together the invisible threads of shared history. © Kenji Masunaga
Azabudai Hills emerges as a distinctive city district, a testament to thoughtful renewal and a commitment to fostering human connections. Conceived as a green haven, it stands for more than just physical structures. In the words of Thomas Heatherwick, it is “a place to be cherished,” where the essence of community and the spirit of shared memories create a new urban landscape.
© Raquel Diniz
The unveiling of Azabudai Hills i...