On the afternoon of the 21st, Taoyuan Mayor Zhang Shanzheng chaired a city council meeting to listen to a report from the Rail Bureau on the 'Japan Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Station Development Investigation'. He stated that railway construction is not only a tool for improving transportation but also a crucial foundation for driving urban development, encouraging the city government team to learn from Japan's successful experiences, break free from traditional frameworks, and develop a more comprehensive urban development blueprint.

Recently, Zhang led a delegation to examine Tokyo, gaining insights into the rail economy and station development strategies under the TOD model. He pointed out that as the underground railway project continues to advance, various MRT projects are also underway, and he encourages all departments to closely coordinate with the Rail Bureau and leverage future station space planning opportunities to accomplish the city's policy goals.

He emphasized the importance of incorporating aesthetic considerations from the Cultural Bureau into station designs, while the Land Administration Bureau can enhance land functionality, and the Urban Development Bureau can promote urban renewal.

Rail Bureau Director Liu Qingfeng indicated that this trip to Japan provides valuable and actionable case studies to understand the perspectives of developers and operators, offering a macro view for the future development of the Taoyuan MRT.

Furthermore, once the Taoyuan MRT circle line is established, it will form a complete circular network similar to Tokyo's Yamanote Line, making this investigation highly relevant.

Urban Development Bureau Director Jiang Nanzhi noted that rail construction is a key opportunity for urban transformation, and that the insights gained from investigating Tokyo's rail economy will serve as important references for Taoyuan's urban planning. The city government will incorporate social housing, affordable housing, and shared spaces for young entrepreneurs into future TOD planning to ensure that the benefits of rail construction are shared by all citizens.