Government-Sponsored Urban Sprawl In Japan

"Proponents say fewer but larger cities will save money and improve efficiency. Skeptics like Shinya fear a different outcome: government that is less responsive and less convenient... Small towns can choose to go it alone, but a system of carrots and sticks crafted by the central government makes it a costly proposition. "'This utter despotism will only kill off towns and villages,' groused one group of local officials... Exactly how the decision to merge is made can be a bit murky."

Thanks to Laura Kranz