TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) returned to Taiwan Tuesday (April 15) with fresh inspiration for economic revitalization after studying Japan's successful stadium management strategies. The mayor, who leads Taiwan's most populous municipality, expressed determination to make a historic impact on his city's development through innovative approaches modeled after Japanese entertainment venues.
The mayoral delegation, which departed last Friday, conducted a comprehensive tour of Japanese facilities including elder care centers, renovated markets, art institutions, and major stadium complexes like the Tokyo Dome and Belluna Dome. Speaking to reporters at Taipei Songshan Airport (松山機場), Hou detailed productive discussions with Kanagawa Prefecture Governor Kuroiwa Yuji (黑岩祐治) and highlighted key operational insights gleaned from Japan's multipurpose entertainment venues.
Hou appeared particularly impressed by the Tokyo Dome's diverse programming model, which balances sporting events with performing arts and cultural activities while maintaining consistently high attendance. This successful approach has strengthened his vision for the planned New Taipei Dome. The mayor emphasized that modern stadium complexes must transcend traditional sports venues by incorporating expanded facilities that generate broader economic benefits and enhance community vitality. ★
