Urban development through the construction of tramways in Okayama city

Abstract

This study examines the urban space created by the construction of a streetcar line in Okayama city, which has a short route, and aims to clarify the current state of urban formation from its opening to the present, as well as to aid in the future formation of urban spaces using streetcars. The period from the construction of streetcars to the present was divided into four periods based on factors such as changes in the number of passengers boarding and alighting, and the relationship with urban formation in each period was analyzed. As a result, it became clear that while postwar streetcars were influenced by urban planning, they contributed to postwar urban development and functioned as an essential foundation for urban formation. Furthermore, it became clear that they will continue to be an important presence in future urban formation, with circular route plans being incorporated into urban regeneration projects.