Optimal Regional Investment Control Using Hallmark Events

During the 80’s, the main objective of regional development policy in Japan gradually shifted from the creation of facilities for industrial activities to the creation of a comfortable atmosphere for leisure and recreation activities. The Comprehensive Recreation Area Development Act of 1987 and the Special Fund for Local Community Development of 1988/1989 eloquently reflect this objective shift and the growing importance of software in regional development. The great variety of hallmark events that has come to be introduced into regional development projects is related to this shift.