汐留川水門, Tokyo Travel Guide

The Shiodome River Gate (汐留川水門, Shiodomegawa Suimon) is a vital piece of infrastructure designed to protect Tokyo's Shiodome district from the risks of high tide and river flooding. Situated where the Shiodome River meets the Sumida River, this functional structure also presents a unique, modern aesthetic.The Shiodome River, once a significant waterway in Edo-era Tokyo, has a rich history. Originally named the Sakura River, it flowed into Hibiya Bay. As the city developed, the bay was reclaimed, and the river's course was altered to flow into the outer moat. The Shiodome River's name became associated with the Shiodome area, and sections of the river were eventually filled in to make way for urban development, including the Tokyo Expressway.The Shiodome River Gate plays a crucial role in managing water levels and preventing potential disasters. The gate is designed to block the flow of water from the Sumida River into the Shiodome River during high tides or heavy rainfall, protecting the low-lying areas of Shiodome from flooding. The structure includes a pumping station to further manage water drainage. While primarily a functional structure, its design, featuring a green lattice-like gate and a white pumping station, has attracted attention. The gate can be viewed from the nearby Takeshiba Pier or from within Hamarikyu Gardens.