In Kyoto they call dead-end alleys “roji” and pass-through alleys “zushi.” A roji feels more private, and you might be a bit hesitant to enter, but you may have easily walked through Tanaka Zushi back when it was still open for passage. Do you think you can find it on Google Maps?

Back then, passing through the tunnel led you to another world filled with row houses along both sides of the narrow alleyway. The alleyway provided a unique view into the everyday lifestyle of Kyoto residents -- from laundry drying in the wind to bicycles parked against the houses. What was even more magnificent was peering up at the view of the sky, making a V-shape with the roofs all lined up beside each other.

But guess what? Back alleys are disappearing all over Japan. The scenery of the alley we described can now only be seen in old photos, with a slight exception of the one area of Tanaka Zushi that’s still accessible.

As you walk through what’s left of the alleyway, let’s take a second to imagine what it would be like to live in an alley like this. How quick would it be to go ask a neighbor for a cup of sugar? Think about how it’s the perfect size for communication within the surrounding community. Now imagine if this road was to change so that cars could drive through it. Just that one change could make it that much more difficult to maintain communication. Can you imagine the difference?