In downtown Kamaishi City, in Japan’s northeastern Iwate Prefecture, I asked a taxi driver to take me to Nakamise Street. “Nakamise Street?” he says. “It’s just a shuttered shopping strip.” “The place used to bustle with life,” he added. It was just...
I arrived at an unmanned train station which had absolutely nothing. Well, to be accurate, it did have a brand-new waiting room (with a bench) and a toilet. This was in Rikuzen Takada City in the southeast region of Iwate Prefecture. The area has...
Hirota is a town in Rikuzen Takata city, Iwate Prefecture; everyday young people relocate here, providing a breath of fresh air. They are organizing events which involves the locals, and are promoting a vacation rental business. In the background...
Digital nomads! Imagine if you could work anywhere you want in Japan, moving houses as you please. All the houses are well-renovated, with gas, electricity and wifi available. And all of these would come at only a low monthly fee. Sorry for the...
Regional revitalization is an uphill battle for Japan. In response to the issue, the government has implemented measures such as providing additional funding, promotion for tourism, and conducting international conferences. However, in recent years...
What is your impression of Chiba city? At Chiba city, one can find an abundance of nature and bustling places. For example, the Makuhari Messe and ZOZO Marine Stadium are located a stone’s throw away from the city center. In the upcoming 2020...
On the second day of the Sustainable Brand 2019 Tokyo conference, a breakout session titled “Learning about Sustainable Consumption from Millennials & GenerationZ” discussed consumer awareness in Japan, and ways to appeal sustainable products...
Administrative offices of Japan’s regional areas have invested tremendous efforts to introduce policies which revitalizes Japan’s regional economy. Examples include unique product development and the maintenance of childcare institutions...
Kamiyama is a small mountain town located in Tokushima Prefecture. This quiet town has been drawing attention domestically and internationally for its innovative policy called “Creative Depopulation”. It refers to positively manipulating...