Study of the effects of shop managers' personal connection networks on attractiveness of center city

A case study of Kitamachi in Nara city

Abstract

In recent years, decline of city center has become a common issue in many local cities. Some shop managers hold workshops and events, and some managers renovate and use buildings of Machiya or old private house as shops. These activities have effects on attractiveness of center city. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effects of shop managers' activities and their personal connection networks on attractiveness in Kitamachi in Nara city. The results are as follows. The personal connection networks of shop managers increased new store openings through sharing property information.The events and advertising among the personal connection networks gave new ways of enjoying city center and opportunities of meeting new shops to visitors. Using these results, we made a brochure to introduce personal connection networks of shop managers in this case study area.