Japan’s new law allowing the designation of alternative capitals came into effect on Friday, paving the way for major cities outside Tokyo to serve as backup administrative and economic centres in the event of a large-scale disaster.
According to Kyodo News, the legislation allows eligible prefectures to apply for secondary capital status, aiming to ensure continuity of government operations and essential services while reducing the concentration of economic activity in Tokyo.
The initiative has gained momentum through the Japan Innovation Party, a member of the ruling coalition, which has long advocated transforming Osaka, its political stronghold in western Japan, into a major metropolitan centre comparable to Tokyo.
“The government is expected to announce in November its basic approach to second capital status and a timetable for its designation,” Kyodo News reported.
Under the legislation, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will have the authority to designate backup capitals following applications from eligible prefectures.
The law does not restrict the designation to a single location, potentially allowing several prefectures to receive secondary capital status.
At least four prefectures — Hokkaido, Aichi, Osaka and Fukuoka — are expected to seek designation.
The government has also introduced eligibility requirements, including a minimum contribution of 2.1 per cent to Japan’s gross domestic product and the presence of a city accounting for at least 1.2 per cent of the national population.
Prefectures granted secondary capital status will benefit from tax incentives designed to encourage investment and strengthen regional economic development.
The legislation represents a significant step towards decentralising Japan’s administrative and economic functions while improving the country’s preparedness for major natural disasters.