#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Future #Urban Development #Transition Design

Introduction to the Transition Design Practical Course

The CityLab Tokyo, in collaboration with Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd. and Urbanists Association, is excited to announce additional details about the Transition Design Practical Course. This course aims to develop individuals and teams capable of fostering sustainable urban and environmental developments. Set to commence on October 1, 2026, the course will consist of a series of five engaging sessions and additional fieldwork opportunities.

Course Details

The Transition Design Practical Course will cover foundational ideas about transition as well as groundbreaking initiatives from various stakeholders. Participants will get to understand the intricate interplay between urban development and environmental considerations. It aims to cultivate professionals who can bridge these two critical areas and collaborate with diverse community members to envision a sustainable urban future.

To learn more about the entire framework of the course, please visit our special website or refer to our press release issued in June.

Kickoff Talk and Orientation

During the opening orientation on October 1, two eminent professors will lead a kickoff talk. Professor Akihito Murayama from the University of Tokyo and Professor Masahiro Matsuura from Meiji University’s Graduate School will engage the audience in discussions about urban development and transitions, sharing challenges and insights.

A panel discussion titled "How Does Transition Change Urban Development?" will deepen the understanding of the concept and its relation to urban planning.

Case Studies and Fieldwork

The course emphasizes practical knowledge by examining case studies that showcase urban and environmental challenges. We will analyze how different starting points—environmental and urban—have led to various outcomes in city development. Practical sessions will focus on how to unify both perspectives to enhance integrated urban planning.

Selected Locations for Case Studies:

• - Owase City, Mie Prefecture: Exploring how to reconnect natural capital with industries and redesign community value in response to energy transitions.

Facilitator: Aritomo Shibayama (Manager, Fisheries and Agriculture Promotion Department, Owase City)

• - Nishiki 2-chome, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture: A real-world implementation of city re-editing through area management and urban redevelopment, incorporating environmental dimensions.

Facilitator: Megumi Nabata (CEO, Nishiki 2-chome Area Management Co., Ltd.)

• - Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture: Fostering a community-driven approach in collaboration with local government to transition a vision into reality.

Coordinator: Mayumi Fujikawa (Chairperson, Ueda City Citizen Energy NPO)

Optional Field Work

Participants can engage in an optional fieldwork session in Yugawara Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, where they will observe regenerative urban development initiatives by our Platinum Partner, Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd.

Learning Objectives

Throughout the course, you will develop:

• - Comprehension of transition theory and frameworks through analysis of successful case studies and challenges faced in the field.
• - Skills to map varied stakeholders and define effective team dynamics necessary for sustainable practices.
• - A broadened perspective on societal transitions and strategies to harmonize urban and environmental conflicts.
• - Enhanced practical skills through dialogues with diverse participants.

Who Should Attend?

This course is designed for individuals looking to innovate in urban planning by integrating environmental practices, such as:

• - Developers wanting to merge business with environmental initiatives.
• - Area managers experiencing difficulties in executing eco-friendly plans.
• - Investors aiming to balance social impacts with business objectives.
• - Organizations promoting circular economy and nature-positive practices but facing community acceptance challenges.

Course Logistics

Course Title: Transition Design Practical Course
Dates: October 1 - November 26, 2026 (five main sessions with optional activities)
Format: Hybrid (online and offline at CityLab Tokyo)
Fee: ¥50,000 (excluding tax) per participant
Registration Deadline: September 31, 2026, by 18:00
Early Bird Offer: Register by August 31 for a 10% discount (limited availability).

Information Sessions

We will hold online sessions to introduce the course on the following dates:

• - August 21, 2026, 18:30-19:30
• - September 14, 2026, 18:30-19:30

These sessions are free of charge. To register, please follow the link provided.

Should you have any inquiries about sponsorship or organization involvement, do not hesitate to contact us. The course is organized in collaboration with multiple esteemed partners, including Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd. and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Together, let’s pave the way for a sustainable urban future through innovative transition practices!