RMIT University and Australian Catholic University invite you to attend this presentation by Dr Kimihiro Hino, Associate Professor, Department of Urban Engineering, The University of Tokyo

Physical Activity Promotion in Urban Planning: A Nationwide Analysis of Japanese Municipalities

This study aimed to assess the state of health promotion within urban planning in Japan. A nationwide questionnaire revealed that municipalities with larger populations and higher aging ratios were more inclined to incorporate health and physical activity into their urban plans. Furthermore, it indicated that municipalities mentioning health as a guiding principle or challenge in their plans were more likely to develop facilities for physical activity. In contrast, municipalities with easier access to railroads were less likely to set quantitative targets related to physical activity and consider service facility proximity in terms of walking distance. These findings suggest a relationship between health awareness and facility development. Moreover, the presence of unfavourable urban structures is likely to incentivize the adoption of health-related initiatives.

Kimihiro Hino, PhD, is an associate professor within the Department of Urban Engineering at the Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo. He earned his doctoral degree from the same institution and brings a decade of experience from his tenure at the (national) Building Research Institute. Dr. Hino's research now focuses on preventing crime and promoting health through environmental design. He actively advises both local and national government entities in Japan on these critical subjects, contributing significantly to urban well-being.