Tokyo may well have a massive number of convenience stores and vending machines, but when it comes to living space, land is at a premium, meaning most people have to make the most of what little they can procure.
A rather unfortunate situation that doesn’t allow much leeway for something so frivolous as a garden. Yet for many city dwellers, this drawback can be overcome to a certain extent by utilising the balcony which, if big enough, can accommodate plants and even a person. Like this versatile little veranda for example, as not only does it provide just enough room for a relaxing beer, but also a terrific spot for train-spotting.
Not everyone is so lucky though, and despite the abode below being brand new, it may (or indeed may not) boast the worst balcony in the world.
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Not only does Tokyo have very little land, what land they do have is EXPENSIVE!
The last “veranda” is just a space for an air-conditioning unit of course
Yeah, that’s more “growth” than veranda.
Land is really expensive in not only Tokyo but Japan overall, so there is no other way to fit all people other than building high and thin buildings. And as for the last veranda, I think, as Thomas has mentioned, that its just a space for an eakon.
Why would you build a veranda for aircon? Especially so large? Usually they are just hanging outside without such a luxurity. I think that thing IS a balcony of some sort. Though with all those trains I doubt owners use it that often.
Actually I see little balconies like that in Beijing all the time as well. Theyre for air conditioning units.
If you look carefully you can spot that just above the balcony is an entry pipe that allows the cold air laden pipe to enter the house.
Keep in mind that the air conditioners are for the entire unit, so much larger than window units typically sold in the US.