JLGC has been hosting annual seminars to encourage exchange and cooperation between Japan and other nations for a number of years. These events focus on shared challenges, providing a platform to showcase Japan’s local government best practices on the global stage.
The theme of this year’s seminar was ‘Re-imagining town centres: Local lessons from Japan and the UK’. The event was held in collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
Town centres and local commercial districts are both economic and social hubs for the local community, and Japan has over 12,000 high streets, which are called shotengai in Japanese. However, with the rise of online shopping and other societal changes, in person shopping and the use of high streets have declined, leaving many areas struggling with vacant shops and other challenges, as well as the UK.
To explore how Japan and the UK are addressing these challenges with innovative solutions, a lively discussion was held from both perspectives under the moderation of Professor Cathy Parker from Manchester Metropolitan University. The event featured case studies from the Shin-Nakamise High Street in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and the Tobichi High Street in Tatsuno Town, Nagano Prefecture, as well as examples presented by Barnsley Council and Renfrewshire Council.
In the case of the Shin-Nakamise High Street in Numazu City, activating public spaces through removing shopping arcades—a symbol of the high street—was introduced. The removal of the arcade provided an opportunity to create a more comfortable, park-like space. Social experiments were conducted to explore new uses for the road space, including road improvements, the installation of chairs and tables, and terrace seating for restaurants. Today, tables, chairs, and greenery remain permanently installed on the road, creating a welcoming, park-like atmosphere.
The case of the Tobichi High Street in Tatsuno Town, the theme of “Valuing spontaneity and sustainability in the urban realm“ was introduced. Vacant shops were not seen as a challenge but as a resource, showcasing how these unused spaces are transforming the town and encouraging the emergence of active players. Addressing the nationwide issue of shuttered shopping streets, the case emphasized that it is not necessary to reopen every shop. Instead, creative initiatives that celebrate the scattered nature of the shops, along with community rebuilding efforts, have fostered new connections and created a walkable, enjoyable high street.
Additionally, UK case presentations from Barnsley Council and Renfrewshire Council sparked various questions from the audience.
The recorded video of the webinar, as well as summaries of past seminars, can be accessed via the following URL.
https://www.jlgc.org.uk/en/projects-and-activities/jlgc-seminar/
