ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the process of formation and transformation of Tokyo or Tokyo metropolitan area from after World War II until recent years is reviewed. And the author clarified the reason why the problem of low birthrate and aging in suburban residential areas, which is the biggest problem of the Tokyo metropolitan area including Tokyo and surrounding prefectures, has occurred, from the process of historical formation and transition. Furthermore, the direction of response to the problem of low birthrate and aging population in suburban residential areas is described with introducing model attempts. In the conclusion part, the author points out that the following two points are important in the Tokyo metropolitan area in order to deal with various problems associated with the declining birthrate and aging population. The first is the formation of a framework to promote collaboration by multiple stakeholders such as private corporations, nonprofit organizations, residents’ associations, and local governments. And the second is the introduction of a multilevel governance system consisting of Tokyo metropolitan area, prefectures, and local governments.
