Future Cities

SHOW #15

Tokyo

The tsunami of March 11th triggered a staggering loss of life. But the magnitude 9.0 earthquake on that day actually caused relatively little damage, and was responsible for very few deaths. That's thanks to some remarkable engineering. We'll head to the Sky Tree, a new iconic tower that will be a highlight of the city's skyline. We'll see how engineers are working to ensure the 634 meter tall structure stands tall in the event of another massive quake. Also, in the days following March 11th, there was also one complex that set the bar high in terms of disaster preparation. The modern and eye-catching Roppongi Hills has its own power grid. It also has its own water supply. We'll go inside and take a look at the mixed-use complex.

Tokyo is also a city that is making use of every square inch, both above and below ground. We'll show viewers the city's unique way of storing bikes, as well as highlight the effort to put all the telephone poles underground as well. On a larger scale, engineers have been tunneling for years to put a main highway down below. We'll get a rare look at the process, and see how it will transform the two crowded districts of Shinjuku and Shibuya. Also, what are the headaches posed with such a massive project? Can the Japanese avoid this becoming another notorious Big Dig?