Permalink : http://hdl.handle.net/2115/70293

KEYWORDS : Forest policy;central-local relations;regional development;spontaneous development

Shimokawa town is famous for its ‘spontaneous development’ in the 1990s by using its forestry resources. In contrast to previous studies which assert that Shimokawa promoted its development by itself, this paper focuses on interdependent history between the central government and Shimokawa government. Formerly, Shimokawa has been successful in their attempts to influence central government policies. As a result, the financial support Shimokawa received was generous, and guaranteed. However, the public-sector finance is facing serious, and local governments are in competition for financial support. This means Shimokawa should emphasize its original policy in way that goes well with nationwide policy.