Tokyo Minato Ward’s Future Vision: A Disaster-Resilient, Crisis-Management City
Fireproofing and Aging-Building Measures to Be Strengthened**
November 18, 2025 – Government / Organizations
(Photo: Mayor Seike giving remarks at the briefing session)
The Town Forum, which has been examining the future vision of Minato Ward in Tokyo toward the 2040s, has compiled its conclusions: the ward should aim to become a “future disaster-resilient and crisis-management city” that is resistant to disasters and free from crime. It calls for advancing fireproofing and anti-aging measures for all buildings, including condominiums, and securing roads that allow emergency vehicles to pass. The forum also recommends the proactive use of advanced technologies. The forum is composed of Minato Ward residents and workers. A briefing session was held in the ward on the 14th.
The ward is integrating its previously separate Basic Policy for Ward Administration and its Basic and Implementation Plans, and will formulate a new comprehensive plan, the “MINATO Vision,” in FY2026. The vision will take effect in April 2027. The Town Forum, consisting of residents, has been discussing the component equivalent to the Basic Policy.
Disaster and Crisis Management
In the area of disaster and crisis management, the ward will work on fireproofing and countermeasures for aging buildings to establish a system where residents can safely evacuate at home during disasters. The plan also includes preparing evacuation centers where people can stay with their pets, addressing diverse needs. A system will also be developed to ensure disaster and crime-prevention information is delivered quickly and accurately to all residents.
Urban Development
In the field of urban development, the vision outlines a diverse and innovative cityscape where many companies are based, while preserving landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and historically valuable buildings. The ward also aims to create a beautiful and sophisticated streetscape.
Mobility using cutting-edge transportation technologies will become the norm throughout the city. Infrastructure will be enhanced to support sustainable daily living, including disaster prevention, crime prevention, and environmental conservation. The entire city will be made barrier-free, creating an environment where people of all ages and abilities can live with peace of mind.
Environmental Initiatives
Environmental policy is also emphasized. Energy stations will be built throughout the city to promote the spread of electric and hydrogen vehicles. The ward aims to create a “city that coexists with nature,” balancing urban development with environmental preservation.
Next Steps
A draft of the “MINATO Vision” will be prepared around summer 2026 through further discussions by expert committees and internal ward-office committees.
The “MINATO Vision Town Forum Briefing Session” was held on the 14th at the Shibaura-Kōnan Community Center. Future visions for disaster and crisis management, urban development, welfare, and public health were presented. Participating Mayor Ai Seike commented:
“Minato Ward’s future direction has become clearer. Based on this report, we will continue moving forward with the formulation of the MINATO Vision.”
