日欧比較景観論

On Landscapes in Europe and Japan


山田利一
Toshikazu Yamada

Abstract

The difference in landscapes between Japan and Europe shows the different views of nature in modern history. Having learned the value of fresh air, clean water and the sun through the Industrial Revolution, European governments were active in restoring and protecting the natural environment to keep people healthy. They passed a variety of laws that made tens of millions of city dwellers feel comfortable with living in apartments and helped stop cities from sprawling. In contrast, Japanese scenes represent inadequate city policies worked out by generations of governments since the beginning of modernization in 1870’s. Their primary concern was to enrich the nation and build up the military; providing people with good living conditions and preserving nature were not their earnest business. The former was regarded as a private matter which everyone should resolve one way or another, and the latter the least important issue. In consequence of such laissez faire, Japan failed to have modern cities with an appealing exterior and an extensive, woody residential area surrounding them.