28 Otemachi／大手町

In Japan, the main gate of a castle is called “Otemon” and many castle towns have their “Otemachi” near the “Otemon” gates.  Otemachi Station is located beside the Otemon of Edo Castle.

Below is a photo of Otemachi Crossing taken in front of the Otemon of Edo Castle.  150 years ago, there were many large two-storied wooden buildings of lords along the street.  At present, there are many skyscrapers including the headquarters of two of the three mega banks in Japan located at the crossing.  Also the headquarters of two of the five major securities companies, three of the five major newspaper companies, two of the big four accounting firms, three of the five major law firms, etc. are located within five-minute waking distance around Otemachi Crossing.

Compared to shiny views of many new buildings redeveloped in the last two decades in Otemachi area, taste of Showa Period (1926-1989) remains in some places underground.  Otemachi Subway Station is the largest subway station connecting 5 subway lines, and underground passages stretching from Otemachi Station to other six stations including Tokyo Station and Ginza Station connect many shops/restaurants malls.

Hakone Ekiden is a major long-distance relay race held on January 2 and 3 every year, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year.  The starting point and the goal point are located in Otemachi beside the headquarter of Yomiuri Newspaper.  Below is a view coming to the eyes of a finisher at the goal point, without cheers of spectators.

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