I like Kurihama for a completely different reason. The station area surrounding the Keikyu Kurihama train station is a lively urban setting with retail, restaurants, commercial and housing uses combined together in such a way that the sidewalks and alleyways spring to life with human activity. The station area is also a major transportation hub, where cars, buses, taxis, bicycles and pedestrians all jostle for space, yet somehow peacefully co-exist.
I certainly have a lot more local train stations area to check out - but so far this one wins hands down for proclaiming a real sense of place. Yes, the architecture is mostly aging 1960s era modern, and there are a lot of signs and billboards and other "clutter" that planners aren't supposed to like -but - there's a real vitality to the small shops that front along the sidewalks. Also - I really like the weather protection provided by the large overhanging canopy that lines the main shopping street. Check out the pictures in my slideshow - and let me know what you think. It may not be beautiful, but it's urban and very functional. In addition - there are a bunch of great locations within easy walking distance - a small beach (site of a park commemorating Perry), Kurihama Flower World, and even urban infill big box retail (another future post).
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