Mechanism of shopping difficulties for low-income households caused by the increase in high-income households in central Tokyo: A case study of Azabu and Takanawa districts of Minato-ku

Abstract

This study analyzed the mechanism of shopping difficulties for low-income groups in central Tokyo, where economic disparity is progressing due to gentrification. Through questionnaire and interview surveys, as well as analysis of time-series environmental changes, we found that since 2000, shopping difficulties have been induced by the decline of shopping streets and the upgrading of supermarkets in parallel. Furthermore, in the areas where the percentage of high-income groups due to redevelopments has significantly increased, luxury supermarkets opened at the same time as the construction of luxury condominiums, making it difficult for affordable supermarkets to locate.