Spatial Economics for Building Back Better: The Japanese Experience

The book explores the challenges of national land and infrastructure design in Japan in the age of declining population and recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake. It argues that agglomeration economies in the central core can destabilize the growing economy during the population decline phase, leading to the decline of lower-rank-size provincial cities. Innovative production by making good use of local natural resources and social capital is key to sustaining small local towns and promoting national welfare. The recent pandemic has highlighted the importance of this issue.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 329 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The central theme of this book delves into the realm of national land and infrastructure design in the context of a declining population and the recovery efforts following the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake in the affected regions of Japan. Drawing upon the theory of spatial economics and historical evidence from Japan, the authors present a compelling argument that as an economy experiences growth driven by population increase, it evolves into a multifaceted and intricate structure. However, during the population decline phase, the authors contend that this construction becomes destabilized due to agglomeration economies in the central core. A catastrophic shock that strikes, such as the recent novel coronavirus pandemic, has the potential to further accelerate the decline of lower-rank-size provincial cities, potentially leading to their eventual disappearance if they solely compete on the basis of lower prices for staple products. Not only does this practice harm the residents, but it also contributes to lower national welfare by reducing diversity and exacerbating overcrowding in large cities.

The authors argue that small local towns possess the potential to recover and thrive if they embrace innovative production by utilizing local natural resources and social capital. They emphasize the importance of avoiding undesirable concentration in Tokyo, which will only exacerbate social costs and risks in the future. The recent pandemic has underscored this concern.

In conclusion, this book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing national land and infrastructure design in the age of population decline and recovery from catastrophic events. By examining the interplay between economic growth, urbanization, and social dynamics, the authors provide a roadmap for sustainable and resilient development in Japan and other regions facing similar demographic shifts.

Weight: 539g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811649530
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021