BENTENCHO: OSAKA NEW URBAN GATEWAY

The project's objective is the redevelopment of Bentencho Station on the Chuo Line and JR Loop Line, along with its surrounding areas, into a prominent gateway and new urban center for Osaka. Positioned equidistant from both the city center and the 2025 Expo site, and directly connected to Osaka's northern and southern urban gateways via the JR Loop Line, the redevelopment aims to serve not only incoming visitors during the 2025 Expo but also provide essential office and institutional amenities for local residents.

Currently, the neighborhood faces several challenges that the redevelopment seeks to address. Elevated railways and highways divide the area into four disjointed sections, hindering pedestrian movement and lacking a cohesive network of open spaces. Furthermore, the juxtaposition of super-blocks with 200-meter towers alongside high-density low-rise residential blocks has resulted in an uneven urban structure.

To effectively tackle these issues, the project employs a multifaceted approach drawn from various successful case studies. The primary goal is to activate urban spaces to prioritize pedestrians, achieved through the implementation of pedestrian-friendly pathways, green spaces, small-scale retail establishments, and expansive commercial zones. By leveraging existing transportation infrastructure as opportunities rather than obstacles, the redevelopment aims to significantly enhance public spaces throughout the area.

This comprehensive redevelopment plan not only aims to address existing urban challenges but also seeks to transform Bentencho into a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable urban center that meets the diverse needs of residents and visitors alike in Osaka.