This video takes viewers through the dramatic transformation of Tokorozawa (所沢市) in Saitama Prefecture, spotlighting the area around Tokorozawa Station (所沢駅). Once characterized by its traditional kurazukuri (蔵造り) warehouses and classic merchant houses stemming from the Meiji era, Tokorozawa has gradually shifted its cityscape towards modernity. In recent years, comprehensive urban redevelopment has introduced numerous high-rise apartment towers, reshaping the skyline and local lifestyle.

Through a blend of old photographs and present-day footage, the video provides a retrospective look at Tokorozawa’s storied past and its evolving urban character. Highlights include nostalgic shots of old shopping streets and retrospectives on unique retro features that once defined the town—such as classic alleys and Showa-era shop signs—contrasted with the current influx of sleek, multi-story condominiums. The station area, now bustling with both commuters and residents of these new towers, stands as a testament to the fusion of history and progress.

Tokorozawa is particularly well-known among Saitama locals for its convenient transport links to central Tokyo and has become a popular choice for those seeking urban amenities without the congestion of the capital. However, redevelopment has sparked debates about preserving historical identity versus embracing modernization. Notable in the footage are shots of the once-vibrant Retro Shotengai (shopping streets), the remaining kurazukuri storehouses, and recent additions like luxury tower blocks—reflecting the broader Japanese trend of city core revitalization. Visitors today can still find pockets of old-town charm, especially in side streets and areas like Sakaizuka (盃横丁), while exploring a dynamic, changing city environment.