A study on the disappearance of alleys in central Kyoto—From 2006 to 2016—

Abstract

Abstract There are many historic alleys in central Kyoto. The alleys in Kyoto's historical townscape have commonly been considered part of its special charm. However, in recent years, such characteristics of this townscape are disappearing. This paper aims to analyze and discuss the disappearance of alleys from 2006 to 2016. The total number of alleys in the subject area declined 7.78%. The following three typical patterns of disappearance of alleys were identified: (i) A pattern where the plot of land that includes the alley is sold by the owner, and as a result, the building along the alley are demolished. Immediately after the alley disappears, collective housing is built. (ii) A pattern where the individual owners of the land, including the alley, decide to demolish the existing building along the alley and replace them with a new detached house. (iii) A pattern where a parking lot is built after the owner of the building along the alley demolishes them.

Keywords

• alleys
• Kyoto
• grid plan
• the old city
• urban block structure