Evaluating transit-oriented new town development: Insights from Seoul and Tokyo

This study evaluates 7Ds (density, diversity, design, distance to transit, destination accessibility, demand management, and demography) from a transit-oriented development (TOD) perspective for four large-scale new towns (NTs) in the suburban areas of Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo, Japan. The analysis revealed variations in self-sufficiency and travel behavior based on these differences, leading to four main policy implications. First, Seoul’s NTs demonstrated high-density mixed-use development, promoting localized short-distance travel within these areas. This highlights the importance of encouraging high-density mixed-use development to foster commuting self-sufficiency. Second, Tokyo’s NTs feature housing development centered on rail transit, resulting in a greater utilization of rail transit modes. This emphasizes the positive impact of rail-transit-oriented development on sustainable mode choice. Third, demand management strategies such as firm-based subsidies and an integrated transit system were identified in the Tokyo and Seoul NTs, respectively. These strategies aimed to provide incentives for choosing public transit over private cars. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the relationship between NTs and their neighboring areas to prevent wasteful commuting resulting from continuous decentralization trends in jobs and housing. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and planners by highlighting the significance of integrating TOD principles into NT planning and development. •Evaluation of TOD planning for new towns in Seoul and Tokyo reveals differences in self-sufficiency and travel behavior.•High-density, mixed-use development in Seoul new towns promotes self-sufficiency.•Tokyo new towns prioritize rail-oriented housing, leading to increased modal share of public transit.•Demand management strategies and rapid transit systems are utilized in new towns of Seoul and Tokyo.•Simultaneous transit and development are ideal, but post-transit infrastructure can be effective.