Reflecting on the 101st Anniversary of the Great Kanto Earthquake
Today, September 1, 2024, marks the 101st anniversary of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. At 11:58 a.m. on September 1, 1923, an estimated magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck the northwestern part of Sagami Bay. The earthquake caused intensity 6 tremors in Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Yamanashi prefectures, coinciding with lunchtime, which led to many fires that spread widely.
The earthquake caused extensive damage, with a total of 370,000 homes being partially or completely destroyed, washed away, or buried. The disaster resulted in approximately 105,000 people being killed or reported missing, leading to an immense scale of devastation. The Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, resulted in about 18,000 deaths or missing persons and caused economic damage amounting to 3% of GDP. This comparison shows that the Great Kanto Earthquake was nearly 10 times as devastating in terms of casualties and economic impact.
Kagurazaka Was Protected by Its Elevated Position
The massive fires following the Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed 44% of downtown Tokyo. However, Kagurazaka, located on the sturdy bedrock of the Ushigome Plateau, suffered minimal damage. Its elevated position protected it from the spread of fire. Kagurazaka, spared from major damage, attracted branches of major Ginza stores, including Mitsukoshi and Matsuzakaya, earning it the nickname “Yamanote Ginza.”
Kagurazaka: A Historical Layout Preserved Amidst Tokyo’s Modernization
Although Kagurazaka was later devastated by air raids during the Pacific War in 1945, it remained largely intact for 77 years from the end of the Edo Period (1868) until 1945. This allowed Kagurazaka’s Edo-period town layout to survive. Today, Kagurazaka’s narrow alleys, impassable by cars, make it an enjoyable place for walking. In contrast, many areas damaged by the Great Kanto Earthquake were rebuilt with modern streets and parks, resulting in a noticeable difference in street width between Kagurazaka and other parts of Tokyo.
Reflecting on History While Exploring Kagurazaka on Disaster Prevention Day
Even 101 years after the Great Kanto Earthquake, the disaster continues to shape the streetscape of both affected and unaffected areas. With this historical context in mind, why not explore Kagurazaka? September 1 is designated as “Disaster Prevention Day.” As you enjoy your walk, remember the evacuation sites in Kagurazaka, ensuring both awareness and enjoyment.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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