Asahi: One voice of opposition crushes Chinatown project in Sendai
Residents here had grand visions of a project intended to revitalize the sluggish local economy. Colorful establishments packed side by side would provide an awesome sight, even from bullet trains roaring past. Pointed rooftops in ancient Chinese architectural style would reach for the skies. Nonstop hustle and bustle would fill the streets and alleys...But a new voice of opposition emerged in Sendai. And the project ground to a halt...The new Sendai mayor, Katsuhiko Umehara, who has long taken a hard-line stance toward China, said Chinatown would ruin the scenery and bring in elements that could threaten social security...more...