What: Tokyo's successful transformation of traditional central business districts (CBDs) into knowledge campuses offers a blueprint for revitalising urban centres through integrated social and commercial spaces, challenging the narrative of downtown decline.

Why it is important: As physical retail demonstrates resilience with record-low vacancy rates , Tokyo's knowledge campus model offers crucial insights for retailers and developers seeking to create vibrant, profitable urban spaces that integrate work, shopping, and leisure.

Tokyo's innovative approach to CBD transformation provides a compelling model for urban revitalisation in the post-COVID era. By reimagining central business districts as knowledge campuses, the city has successfully created integrated environments that serve multiple functions beyond traditional office use. The model's success relies on five key factors: multifunctional density, superior transportation connectivity, elevated mixed-use approach, sectoral focus, and unique character development. This comprehensive strategy has enabled Tokyo to maintain economic efficiency while fostering the kind of spontaneous interactions that drive innovation in the knowledge economy. The approach demonstrates how cities can adapt to new working norms while enhancing their appeal to businesses and talent, creating sustainable urban ecosystems that benefit all stakeholders, from property developers to city residents.

IADS Notes: Recent developments validate Tokyo's integrated approach. While some US department stores retreat from downtown locations , successful mixed-use developments like British Land's Broadgate Central achieve 4.6% year-on-year retail sales growth. Madrid's transformation of office spaces into luxury residential units  demonstrates the viability of mixed land use, while Dubai's ICD Brookfield Place commands 41% above-market rental rates through lifestyle integration . These examples show how thoughtful urban planning can create sustainable value in city centres.

Reviving the city centre: from office buildings to knowledge campus