Characteristics of Tokiwadaira Neighbourhood Park in Matsudo, Japan: A space for the elderly

Abstract

Tokiwadaira is one of the districts most populated by elderly in Japan. This study compared the preferences of danchi and apartment residents to examine the neighbourhood park preferences as well as neighbourhood park similarity. This research was conducted in three stages, including a spatial preference survey, analysis, and interpretation. A Welch’s t-test and correspondence analysis were applied. Results demonstrated three significant differences between danchi and apartment residents, namely park preference, length of visit, and preferred park elements. There were four similarities among Tokiwadaira neighbourhood parks. These results may help urban planners optimise existing features of neighbourhood parks to encourage use.