Japanese Government Releases Free Minecraft Map of Iconic Underground Tokyo Site

The Japanese government has unveiled a Minecraft map showcasing the world's largest underground flood prevention facility, offering an immersive way to explore one of Tokyo's hidden gems from the comfort of your home. Known as the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, or G-Cans for short, this remarkable disaster prevention system is renowned for its awe-inspiring "pressure adjustment water tank," featuring 59 colossal pillars within a vast cavernous space. Often referred to as the "underground temple" (chika shinden) in Japan, this location exudes an otherworldly atmosphere, making it a popular backdrop for music videos, TV dramas (such as Kamen Rider), and films.

The real-life G-Cans. Photographer: Tomohiro Ohsumi/Bloomberg via Getty Images.

While tours of G-Cans are available during dry seasons, the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has made exploration even more accessible through a Minecraft recreation. The ministry's official YouTube channel features a video highlighting the facility's purpose and showcasing its pixelated counterpart.

This free Minecraft map not only includes the underground marvel but also features an above-ground area with rivers, homes, and neighborhoods, providing context on how G-Cans safeguards communities. Players can even step into the control room to simulate floodwater drainage into the shafts, gaining firsthand insight into its functionality.

MLIT's Minecraft rendition aims to educate users about the facility's vital role in preventing disasters. By exploring it virtually, players can grasp the sheer scale of G-Cans, which spans over 6 kilometers of concrete tunnels beneath Saitama Prefecture, part of the Greater Tokyo Area. During Japan's rainy season (June) and typhoon season (typically September), its five massive shafts collect floodwater from vulnerable rivers, gradually releasing it into the larger Edogawa River and Tokyo Bay. Since its completion in 2006 after more than a decade of construction, G-Cans has been instrumental in mitigating flooding in the region.

To experience this unique adventure, download MLIT's Minecraft map for free from the official website of the Edogawa River Office, the managing body of the facility. Ensure you have at least Version 1.21.1 of Minecraft Bedrock Edition or Version 1.21.0 of Minecraft Education Edition installed.