News Shinjuku's general overhaul transforming Showa-era landmarks

[thomas]

Shinjuku is currently undergoing major reconstruction work. Asahi has more on it:

Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku commercial and entertainment hub is set for a significant transformation across multiple areas. Regulatory changes will allow for the redevelopment of buildings on the east side of Shinjuku Station, where the Isetan department store and Shinjuku Alta shopping complex are located. Large-scale projects are being done on the station's west side to replace the Odakyu and Keio department stores with skyscrapers. This area, often called the "Shinjuku Dungeon" due to its maze-like structure, will see a dramatic overhaul.

Shinjuku's townscapes, which have remained largely unchanged since the Showa Era (1926-1989), are set to take a new shape. Shinjuku Alta closed at the end of February. A street section in front of the shopping complex outside Shinjuku Station's east exit was once a fixture meeting place for people. The complex, which opened in 1980, became famous as the studio site for "Waratte Iitomo!" (It's OK to laugh!), Fuji Television Network Inc.'s popular variety show, which was broadcast live at noon from 1982 through 2014. Alta, however, had to shut down operations mainly because of sluggish sales.

The major change planned for Shinjuku is a large-scale redevelopment to modernise the district while making it more pedestrian-friendly. The overhaul includes:

• Skyscraper Construction: The Odakyu and Keio department stores on the west will be replaced by high-rise buildings, including a 260-meter tower and another 225-meter tower housing commercial spaces, offices, and a luxury hotel.
• Deregulation for New Development: On the east side, zoning laws will be relaxed to allow for taller and more efficient building replacements, including redevelopment around the Isetan department store and former Shinjuku Alta site.
• Urban Planning Improvements: The west exit rotary will be removed, and the station area will be reorganised to prioritise pedestrians over cars.

Colossal facelift in Shinjuku to replace Showa Era landmarks | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis