Revitalizing Shrinking Cities in Japan: A Study on the Socio-Spatial Impact of the Shinkansen in Aomori Prefecture

The recent extension of the Shinkansen network towards Japanese peripheral regions highlights critical issues in Japan’s approach toward regional revitalisation—particularly in the context of severe depopulation. While the Tokaido Line shows some positive impacts, it remains unclear whether high-speed rail can help close regional gaps as shrinkage continues. Moreover, there is little recent empirical research on the Shinkansen’s impact on the built environment, communities, and cultural geographies in shrinking cities. This project addresses that gap by examining the socio-spatial effects of the Shinkansen in four shrinking cities and towns in Aomori Prefecture—Hachinohe, Shichinohe, Aomori, and Imabetsu. Drawing on new empirical data, it explores how urban landscapes and place identities are changing, how high-speed rail features in local strategies to address shrinkage, and how connected cities are deterritorialised and reterritorialised by this infrastructure. The project offers new insights into the socio-spatial impacts of HSR-led revitalisation and the evolving relationship between transport infrastructure, cities, and communities.

Japan Foundation: JPY 1,003,000