Abstract
Since the 1990 s, “new Chinatowns” have been constructed in various parts of Japan. There were some projects discon-tinued at the planning stage. Investigating the success factors of Yokohama Chinatown, which was a model for “new China-towns,” this paper considers the requirements for utilizing ethnic resources in the regional revitalization within Japan.
First, using four examples of the constructed indoor Chinatowns: Tachikawa Chinatown, Daiba Small Hong Kong, Senri Chinatown, and Osu Chinatown, I examine the background and characteristics of each establishment, and the processes and factors of closure. Next, using other examples of the incomplete indoor Chinatowns which have dissolved at the con-ceptual stage: Sendai Chinatown, Niigata Chinatown, Sapporo Chinatown, Tomakomai Chinatown, and Fukuoka 21 st Cen-tury Chinatown, I examine the conceptual processes and problems.
Based on these studies, I consider Yokohama Chinatown’s transition to a tourist destination and its background as a suc-cessful example of the utilization of ethnic resources in the regional revitalization. As a result of the above, I conclude that the establishment of a cooperative relationship between the ethnic group, the host society, and the government is indispen-sable for the regional revitalization utilizing ethnic resources.
