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Abstract： |
This study examines the formation process of the commercial districts in cities of Japan. In particular, it describes the important roles that private railway companies in Japan have played in the development and expansion of modern department stores. In addition to providing transportation infrastructure and services, the railroad companies extended their business scope into both real estate development and retail operations. This diversification transformed the traditional retail landscape in many Japanese cities. While it is not uncommon for railway companies to be engaged in real estate development （such as what has happened in the UK and some other countries）, it is quite unique that the Japanese railroad companies combined real estate development with the creation of commercial districts around railway stations. |
