【Strolling through Nishi-ward 19】Gas tanks in Hiranuma 【Strolling through Nishi-ward 19】Gas tanks in Hiranuma
Spot information
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| Web site | https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/nishi/shokai/kanko/spot/sozoroaruki/ |
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Description
Strolling through Nishi-ward: Gas tanks in Hiranuma
Minato Mirai 21 area has become a landmark of Yokohama. Yokohama has many attractive tourist sites including Landmark Tower, Nippon Maru and “Cosmo Clock 21” which is said to be the biggest Ferris wheel in Japan. But there is one spot I don’t want to miss, which is gas tanks in Hiranuma. It has no gorgeousness, but it is unsung hero who supply gas in the city.
When I stand very close to the tank, I am overwhelmed by its dignified appearance. I’ve seen it for many decades, but I wonder how many of gas tanks there are. There are four of them. Night view of the area has an atmosphere of UFO basement.
In 1872 (Meiji 5) Kaemon Takashima expended private funds to establish a very first gas company in Japan and contributed to spread of gas lighting and this gas tank is its successor. It has been supporting our life over generations.
Writing and picture by Tai Hasewaga (Nishi ward Cultural Association/Chairman of Kiko Society)
※This is a sketch and writing published in Yokohama Public Relation Nishi ward edition between November 1997 and April 2004. Please be noted that there’s a possibility that information in the article may be changed.
(Published May in 1999)