By Cathy Hirano

A year ago, I wrote about the redevelopment of Takamatsu's Central Shopping Mall (see http://cathy.ashita-sanuki.jp/d2010-12.html and http://cathy.ashita-sanuki.jp/e382325.html ). Recently I stumbled across a city brochure claiming that this project was gaining international attention as a successful example of how to revitalize a city center. At first, I failed to take these words very seriously but when my daughter, who is majoring in economics, told me that it was presented as an example during a course on economic geography at her university in Tokyo, I became intrigued.

What were the factors cited in this success? The first was ensuring steady local clientele by building housing right into the shopping mall. I went down to take a better look and, sure enough, there they were: new apartment buildings rising out of the shopping mall below.



But they weren't visible at all from inside the shopping arcade.





Set back so as not to overshadow the street, they are only noticeable if you happen to be looking up as you cross an intersection.



A quick search on line revealed that the apartments in Marugame-machi G-block, the last section which is currently under construction, are already sold out. I guess that's an indication that their plan is succeeding.



Another factor in the project's success is zoning. As far as I can understand it, there are 7 blocks from A to G, starting with Mitsukoshi department store at the north end and ending at Route 11 on the south. The north end is dedicated to high-end brand fashion shops like Gucci and Gap combined with slightly pricier restaurants. There are, however, a few less expensive ones, like this dollar shop



and this 'natural' food store that has a cafeteria selling set lunches for under 1,000 yen.



Moving south, the shops are less high-end and more practical. There are some interesting idea shops like the one below. Called Machi no Shure, it's a second floor establishment that includes many individual shops, a popular restaurant with homebaked bread, a small gallery featuring local artists and others, and outlets for local products. The fact that they sold Isamu Noguchi Akari lamps was a nice surprise.



The final key cited for the project's success was an attractive design and it is certainly much more interesting than the designs seen in an average shopping mall. The street itself is light and airy thanks to the high transparent roof



and many of the roads are decorated with mosaics.





Many of the original shops have survived with only minor renovations, such as the Buddhist altar store below



and this tea shop.


In addition, some vintage touches have been left alone, conserving the distinctive flavor of Takamatsu's original shopping streets, like this clock.



All in all, even after the reconstruction, the area remains fun and interesting. Finally, it was encouraging to see that pilgrims doing the Shikoku 88-temple route still feel welcome here despite the transformation, proof I hope that the city still retains its soul.