A recent online comparison claimed that Tokyo is a third the size of England. Could a single city truly occupy such a vast area? This article explores the truth behind this claim, comparing the size of Tokyo to the UK, specifically focusing on the urban area versus administrative boundaries.
Defining the Size: Urban vs. Administrative Areas
The initial comparison’s flaw lies in using administrative boundaries, which often include significant rural areas. The Tokyo metropolitan area, while administratively large, encompasses substantial non-urban land. Similarly, Greater London includes rural fringes, while some built-up areas outside its administrative boundary feel inherently part of London due to their integration with the city’s infrastructure. Using administrative areas for comparison creates a misleading picture of actual urban size.
A More Accurate Comparison: Built-Up Areas
A more accurate comparison involves examining the built-up areas of Tokyo and London using the same scale and map projection. Visual comparison of a map highlighting built-up areas and railways reveals that Tokyo’s urban area is approximately three times the size of London’s.
This visual assessment aligns with population figures. Greater London’s urban area boasts roughly 8.5 million residents, while Greater Tokyo houses around 31 million. This threefold population difference corresponds with the threefold difference in urban area size.
Tokyo’s True Size: Fitting into Kent
Contrary to the initial claim, Tokyo’s urban area wouldn’t cover a third of England. Instead, it would fit comfortably within Kent, a county in South East England. While undeniably large, Tokyo’s size has been significantly exaggerated in the original comparison. Defining metropolitan areas presents its own challenges, as definitions and included areas can vary significantly.
Conclusion: Debunking the Myth
While Tokyo is undoubtedly a sprawling metropolis, its size is not as enormous as initially portrayed. Comparing built-up areas provides a more accurate understanding of the city’s true dimensions. Tokyo’s urban footprint is roughly three times that of London, aligning with their population difference. So, while big, Tokyo is not “nation-eating gigantic,” but rather a densely populated urban center that fits comfortably within a much smaller area than initially suggested.
