KAMAKURA, Jun 21 (News On Japan) –
Most parks in Kamakura, a well-liked vacationer vacation spot in Kanagawa Prefecture recognized for landmarks corresponding to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Yuigahama Beach, have banned canines, prompting combined reactions from residents. The metropolis’s proximity to Tokyo makes it a fascinating place to stay, however latest rules have drawn complaints from canine house owners.
On June nineteenth, many individuals have been seen strolling their canines alongside Yuigahama Beach. However, in neighborhood parks designated as “district parks,” Kamakura City prohibits canines from coming into. The metropolis’s web site explains that the rule is meant to make sure security after receiving experiences that different park customers really feel uncomfortable when acceptable distance from canines can’t be maintained.
There are 239 such district parks in Kamakura. Of these, solely 12 parks enable canines on leashes as an exception.
Dog house owners expressed frustration over the regulation. One mentioned, “Who are parks for? If dogs aren’t allowed, we can’t use them at all. It’s a complicated issue, but it feels unfair. My dog is very calm and causes no problems, but there are dogs with more aggressive temperaments. After all, dogs are animals.” Another added, “From a dog owner’s perspective, I wish the city would be a little more tolerant. I’d like to be able to walk my dog in the park.”
Non-dog house owners additionally shared their views. One resident mentioned, “I think the rule is reasonable. When dogs come near, their fur flies and sometimes they relieve themselves. It feels unsanitary when small children are playing or lying down in the park. The smell of urine can be quite strong. If someone lets their dog off the leash and something happens, it could be a problem. Ideally, everyone should be able to enjoy the parks peacefully.”
The concern has even been raised within the metropolis council, the place consideration has centered on the precise variety of complaints obtained. In the previous 5 years, solely round 10 complaints have been filed.
Council member Manaka Hosokawa requested metropolis officers: “How many opinions, complaints, or grievances have you received?”
City officers responded: “In recent years, we received five cases in fiscal 2021, one case in fiscal 2022, five cases in fiscal 2023, and zero cases in fiscal 2024.”
When interviewed by this system, metropolis officers acknowledged that “honestly, the number is not large,” however added, “district parks are used by local residents, and we want to consider reviewing which parks allow dogs based on requests and consultations from neighborhood associations.”
Makoto Machida, a visiting professor at Yokohama City University Graduate School and an professional on park administration, commented on the scenario. “Sometimes a rule changes due to many voices, but even a single strong complaint can trigger action. Public institutions are facing declining human resources, and handling each complaint consumes more time. To avoid continuous disputes, municipalities may simply prohibit certain behaviors and put up signs to prevent further complaints.”
As for the right way to resolve such conflicts, Machida instructed, “Mutual understanding among residents is crucial. Solutions might involve discussing which areas are acceptable, designating certain zones or time periods where dogs are allowed. Exploring these kinds of compromises will likely be the way forward.”
Source: FNN