Japanese Government Releases Free Minecraft Map of Iconic Tokyo Underground

The Japanese government has made a fascinating addition to the world of Minecraft by releasing an accurate digital replica of the planet's largest underground flood prevention facility. This Minecraft map of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, famously known as G-Cans, is entirely free to download, offering players the chance to delve into one of Tokyo's lesser-known architectural marvels from the comfort of their own homes.

G-Cans stands as a remarkable example of disaster prevention engineering. Its most iconic feature is the awe-inspiring "pressure adjustment water tank," a vast chamber adorned with 59 colossal pillars. Often referred to as the "underground temple" (chika shinden) in Japan, this space boasts an incredible atmosphere and has served as a backdrop for numerous music videos, Japanese TV dramas (such as Kamen Rider), and films.

The actual G-Cans facility. Photographer: Tomohiro Ohsumi/Bloomberg via Getty Images.

During dry periods, visitors can explore the real-life G-Cans on guided tours. However, thanks to the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), enthusiasts can now experience this extraordinary structure within the blocky universe of Minecraft. The ministry has shared a video on their official YouTube channel explaining the facility's purpose and showcasing its representation in the game.

The free Minecraft map of G-Cans extends beyond the underground complex, featuring an above-ground area complete with rivers, residential zones, and neighborhoods. This design provides players with a clearer understanding of how G-Cans safeguards communities and infrastructure in the real world. Players can even step into the control room to simulate floodwater drainage into the shafts, gaining firsthand insight into the system's functionality.

The Minecraft rendition of G-Cans. Image credit: the Edogawa River Office.

Designed with educational purposes in mind, MLIT's Minecraft recreation highlights the immense scale and significance of G-Cans. In reality, the facility's concrete tunnels stretch over 6 kilometers beneath Saitama Prefecture, part of the Greater Tokyo Area. During Japan's rainy season (June) and typhoon season (typically September), G-Cans collects water from flood-prone rivers, gradually releasing it into the larger Edogawa River and Tokyo Bay. Since its completion in 2006, following more than a decade of construction, G-Cans has been instrumental in mitigating flooding in the region.

To access this educational tool, players can download MLIT's G-Cans Minecraft map for free from the official website of the Edogawa River Office, which oversees the facility. To ensure compatibility, users must have at least Version 1.21.1 of Minecraft Bedrock Edition or Version 1.21.0 of Minecraft Education Edition installed.