The purpose of this study is an attempt to understand the urban transition from the view point of the property ownership system. This report analyzes the cadaster as it was in 1930's, comparing to the one in 1912. The aim here is to clarify the divisions of real estate in Tokyo and, by studying the impact of various property ownership systems, present guidelines for future urban development strategies. The discovery is that the former feudal lords still had huge land holding early in the Showa Era, yet there was no concept of urban structure or city planning, thereby creating a congested city form.