Sapporo Underground

These pictures were taken while walking through the underground streets in Sapporo, Japan in February. It was a balmy -9 celcius (16 F), this underground walking streets become the main thorough fair for locals and visitors alike. The exits are designed in a way that are inviting and very informative for people who use this underground street. Especially for a visitor like me, it was very helpful to have the entrance above ground also relates to the entrance below ground.

See this picture for MontBell store for example, This company sell outdoor sports and camping products. The design of the bench and column covers do not only reflect on the company's brand, but also add texture and warmth to the utilitarian concrete tunnels.

This photo shows built-in benches on the wall, near subway entrances. These benches, though will not win any design award, are very much appreciated. In a commuter society like japan, there will be waiting, and the need to sit and wait, or quickly take a break. These bench bars are simple and do not take much needed walking space for commuter. Simple and yet very effective!