Globalization and Gentrification in Inner Tokyo

Abstract

    World cities are undergoing large changes due to globalization and the process of gentrification. The paper aims to clarify three points. The first is a comparison of industrial restructuring among three world cities: London, New York City and Tokyo. The share of finance and insurance and real estates is 9％ in London, 12％ in New York City, and 8％ in Tokyo. The share of professional and technical services is 13％ in London and New York City, but only 5％ in Tokyo.
    The second is an examination of social polarization among white-collar workers, service workers, and factory workers. White-collar workers live in central and west Tokyo. Service workers live in northeast and south Tokyo. Factory workers live in the peripheral wards of Adachi, Ota, and Edogawa. The social polarization among foreign workers is revealed.
    The third is a study of the relationship between globalization and gentrification, using an index showing the change in foreign residents, professional, and technical workers. The study districts are Minato 3-chome in Chuo ward, and Shirokane 1-chome and 3-chome in Minato ward.
    In Minato 3-chome, high-rise condominium construction has resulted in gentrification. Super high rise condominiums could be constructed because the developers bought all sites available. The rents in some housing units are very high, and mostly foreign workers live in these condominiums with their families.
    In Shirokane 1-chome and 3-chome, many small and medium-sized factories had been in operation there until the early 1990s. However, most factories and factory workers were displaced, and private condominiums were constructed in these areas. Large-scale redevelopment happened in Shirokane 1-chome, which resulted in the construction of high-rise office buildings and condominiums. Foreign companies occupy the office buildings. As a result, the number of foreigner residents has increased in this area.