Tokyo Plans Redevelopment of Historic Jingu Stadium Amid Opposition

Plans to redevelop the historic Jingu Gaien park area in Tokyo, including demolishing a baseball stadium where Babe Ruth once played, have sparked significant controversy. Approved by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government over two years ago, the redevelopment involves building high-rise towers and relocating the baseball stadium, which critics argue sacrifices important historical and green public spaces for commercial interests. The project faces opposition from a coalition of experts, citizens, and notable figures like novelist Haruki Murakami, who emphasize the importance of citizens' control over public land and caution against privatization schemes that grant developers access to park areas. While the developers contend the stadium is outdated, opponents point to examples like Fenway Park and Wrigley Field in the U.S., which have been preserved and refurbished. The debate highlights broader concerns about urban planning, democratic regulation, and the preservation of cultural heritage in Tokyo. Despite ongoing protests, land clearing has begun, and the project may take up to a decade to complete.