Carfree Streets as Negotiated Play Spaces in Tokyo

Abstract

In Tokyo, the traditional role of streets as children’s play spaces has been largely replaced by designated spaces such as parks. Based on two case studies, this article demonstrates how carfree streets provide an opportunity for residents to reinvent and domesticate street spaces for children’s play. The declining heterogeneity in Japanese streets and the government’s rigidity in restricting informality are explored through literature review, while participant observation and interviews with key stakeholders are used to explain the evolution of streets and street activities, and the intricacies in appropriating spaces reclaimed from cars. The article concludes that these activities give texture to the street spaces, and the emergent camaraderie produces a “placeness” that is unique to each location. Moreover, the long-standing rapport that community organizations have with residents and authorities has empowered street-based activities to transgress the boundaries that limit the heterogeneity of streets as public open spaces.