Welcome!

Class description:

We live and study in one of the largest ones in the world. But what do we really know about the past and current dynamics in Tokyo or other cities? In this class, we will think about urban spaces and how people relate to them.

We will consider three cities in particular: Tokyo, New York City, and Bilbao. In the spring, we will focus on efforts to preserve urban histories as cities rapidly change. We will have a chance to engage with local historians, discuss key issues facing Tokyo, and discuss theories about urban renewal and gentrification. In the fall, we will think more about the future of these three cities, which will include Tokyo’s efforts to welcome the 2020 Olympics.

This class will change the way you see the city around you and its past, and also help you ask the most pressing questions about how inhabitants can and should relate to their cities as they face 21^st century challenges, including overcrowding, environmental issues, and tourism.

Most simply... let's get curious about the spaces we move through each day!