shitei toshi

Japanese government

Also known as: designated city

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Last updated

July 19, 2026

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A shitei toshi, or designated city, is a status granted to Japanese cities with a population of at least 500,000. These cities are further divided into wards (ku), each with its own chief and elected assembly. This designation allows for greater local autonomy and responsibility in managing urban affairs. The concept of designated cities emerged to empower larger urban centers, with the first five being named in the mid-1950s. This system reflects Japan's commitment to local government autonomy as established by its constitution.1

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Japan
Local government
…be given the status of shitei toshi (designated city). Designated cities are divided into ku (wards), each of which has a chief and an assembly, the former being nominated by the mayor and the latter elected by the residents. The number of these cities has steadily increased since the first…
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…be given the status of shitei toshi (designated city). Designated cities are divided into ku (wards), each of which has a chief and an assembly, the former being nominated by the mayor and the latter elected by the residents. The number of these cities has steadily increased since the first…
Read More