Appendix I: Sequence for improvements to the Okayama Culture Zone

Obviously, some of the improvements suggested in this blog are more basic or urgent than others. For example, it would not make sense to redevelop the former Uchisange Elementary School site without first rebuilding Tsukimi-bashi and clearing sight lines toward Okayama Castle. The following list is intended to give a general prioritization for the various improvements suggested in this blog:

1. Most basic and urgent; do not depend on any other improvements
(a) Establish an historical preservation district encompassing the immediate environs of Okayama Castle and the Nishi Maru area lying between the Castle and Shiroshita Station/Okayama Symphony Hall. Implement strict zoning in this area and establish a plan for gradually removing buildings that obstruct the views of the castle and the defensive walls of Nishi Maru. Build a public consensus on how to prevent any inappropriate redevelopment within this district, and on a design code for homes located here.

(b) Rebuild Tsukimi-bashi (see posting: "Opportunity #1: Rebuild Tsukimi-bashi in traditional style").

2. Other basic, stand-alone improvements
(a) Asahi River Lantern Walk (see posting: "Opportunity #2: Create a "Lantern Walk" along the Asahi River"

(b) Beautify Ujo-koen (see posting: "Opportunity #4: Beautify Ujo-koen")

3. Subsidiary improvements
(a) Encourage the development of appropriate businesses (restaurants, cafes, etc.) along the west side of the Asahi River.

(b) Encourage the development of water-based activities for tourists and local residents (mini- cruises, kayaking, etc.).

(c) Invite people to celebrate the rebirth of this area by organizing a summer River Festival.

4. Long-term improvements
(a) Relocate/rebuild inappropriate structures within the Marunouchi Historical Park, as opportunities arise.

(b) Install facilities in the park to make it a center of outdoor cultural activity (open-air amphitheater, open-air pavilion, bandstand, etc.), as space becomes available.

(c) Redevelop key sites within or near the Marunouchi Historical Park (eg, the former Uchisange Elementary School and the Okayama Korakukan Jr./Sr. High School), only after the basic improvements mentioned above have been made.