When visiting Japan for the first time, you cannot help but notice how organized the streets are. For me, it felt like there is a sensible person that thought hard for every little detail, and there are a lot of details! For example, there is almost no sidewalk without the tactile sidewalk strips for the blind, and the accessible sidewalks for the wheelchairs. and so many other things that I may write about next.

In this one, I want to list the 7 Placemaking ideas, that everyone should copy from Japan.

1 Themed playgrounds 

There are a lot of playgrounds in every Japanese city. They put them in the small open spaces in neighborhoods. These spaces usually have few benches on the side, and a field for kids to run around. And almost every time, they fit in a playground. Depending on the size of the space, it can sometimes be a simple slide or just one swing.

Theme playgrounds, on the other hand, they completely transform the neighborhood space into a national icon. Each one is unique. Though lots of animal looking slides. But the best ideas are always inspired by the population’s identity.

2 Meeting spots

There is a story behind this one: There was a dog called Hachiko. Who always met his owner at the station when he returned from work. One day, the owner died suddenly. Hachiko moved to live with another family. But throughout the rest of his life, he kept going to the same train station every day. He sat there patiently waiting, but sadly his beloved owner never came back.

The story of the faithful dog was turned into a movie, and a bronze statue was built in his waiting place. It became the place where friends and loved ones reunite. Now there are different statues all over japan, in city centers and near train stations. Giving beauty to the place and a romantic sense to people’s reunion.

3 Separation wall of plants 

Although Green walls can be massive and sometimes covers huge buildings. The idea here is to create a simple metallic frame covered with plants. To make a separation from the road or the concrete view.

The weather in Japan is perfect for green walls. They probably need less maintenance there. But with the right plant knowledge, you can pull off a place that breaks the pattern.

4 Foot bath

I realize this is not practical, as it can be made only around springs. But it is by far the most beautiful experience you can have in a public place. It creates a phenomenal mood. As it makes people comfortable just enough to relax but keeps them open to start conversations.

They exist mostly in an open space, but sometime in the middle of buildings, randomly a the center of a small square.

5 Hidden garden

It’s simply a couple of benches surrounded with small trees on pots. They are usually positioned in street corners or on top of building roofs. And as opposed to the foot baths, this a great place to grab a coffee.

I’ve been to several places like these, the greatest ones always make you forget that you are still in the city. There should be nothing special about the benches or the place. It’s all about the plants and not being able to hear the city noise.

6 Wish tree 

You will usually find them in Japanese temples, a small tree where people tie pieces of paper for good luck. And much like the love locks on bridges, Yoko Ono made the concept of wish tree art installations and spread it all over the world.

It's a great placemaking idea, that can bring people together. Especially for schools. Every kid got a wish. What if we let them memorize their childhood wish in a beautiful way?

7 Seasonal events place

In Japan, there are a lot of public events throughout the year. People get the chance to enjoy performances and street food. It’s also a chance for local artists and music groups from local schools to show their talent. Occasionally, a popular singer would perform. You know when there is a crowd of teenage girls.

I always found that the most interesting thing about the even is, the stage and the kiosks suddenly pope up in the middle of the square or front of a train station. And quickly disappear after. The public square itself is already prepared to host such events. It has the electric supply ready as well as the hidden attachment.

One of the most beautiful public spaces I have ever seen is the decoration of the Japanese tree at Christmas time. stunning view from the future.

These places are very powerful. Because they connect people and create a unique identity at the same time. Do you want to make a change in your environment? check out these cool ideas to renovate after riots.

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