The Progress of Motorization in China - An study based on the experiences in Japan

This study is focused on the progress of motorization in China based on historical analysis on the motorization in Japan, 1960s to 1970s. First, the experiences of motorization in Japan are studied. Attitudes for cars by Japanese people are shown and issues by motorization are also studied. Following to them, the progress of motorization is briefly explained. The results of an opinion poll are shown which was conducted at Shijiazhuang City, He Bei Province. The study was carried out to make clear citizen’s behavior on motorization. It is apparent that motorization gives impact to citizen’s life even in rural cities such as Shijiazhuang city. Though number of cars sold in China come top in the world, its motorization is in lower level compare to developed countries. The results of the study show motorization in China is similar to that of Japan in 1960s to 1970s, the beginning decade of motorization in the country. The author gives some proposals for smooth motorization and avoiding not appropriate side effects of motorization based on experiences in Japan. The proposals as follows; 1. Necessary policy measures are to be implemented soon to prevent traffic accidents and environment problems caused by cars. Education on traffic safety for citizens, drivers and non drivers also, should be included in them. 2. Government and research institutes are to monitor and study the progress of motorization ,and take necessary policy measures because motorization is not just increasing number of cars but great change on the wide range on the society. 3. Necessary policy measures to secure public transportation system in future. It should be remembered that public transportation systems are supported by taxes paid as car tax, gasoline tax and so on. 4. Negative impacts on suburbanization through motorization should be seriously studied with experiences in developed countries and necessary policy measures applicable in China are to be prepared and implemented.