An article consolidating the joint research of Prof. Yoko Shimizu and Prof. Takashi Kyakuno, both of the School of Policy Studies, entitled “Research on Vacant House Distribution in Urban Areas and Residential Awareness: Using the Case of the Ichihashi Area in Imagumano, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City as Precedent” was published in the June 2019 issue of the Architectural Institute of Japan’s Journal of Architecture and Planning (Vol. 84, Issue 760).

　This research, which centered on an area in the Higashiyama District of Kyoto City, investigated the primary factors that cause houses to become vacant, as well as the likelihood that the problem will occur in the future, from a resident awareness perspective and a physical environment perspective. The researchers confirmed a phenomenon that was the complete opposite of conventionally accepted theories—among certain old residential areas that meet certain conditions, in so-called convenient areas which are close to bus stops and clinics, the percentage of vacant houses actually goes up—and investigated the reason why. Furthermore, the research successfully drew a map of areas that could potentially have houses becoming vacant in the future, based on results acquired from an investigation of models made using a GIS (Geographic Information System).

　The issue of vacant houses is becoming a serious problem all around the country. While many local governments are beginning to take action, with regard to basic ways to solve the problem, they are at the stage of groping for solutions. Prof. Shimizu and Prof. Kyakuno hope that this research will give back to municipalities, and be useful for formulating policies.