Gunma and Kyoto prefectures seek designation as Japan’s secondary capital

Governor Ichita Yamamoto of Gunma Prefecture announced that the region will apply to become a designated “secondary capital,” a role intended to provide a backup location for national functions if Tokyo is incapacitated and to alleviate the capital’s over‑concentration. Yamamoto highlighted Gunma’s low disaster risk, close proximity to Tokyo, and extensive transport infrastructure as key strengths.

Kyoto Prefecture Governor Takatoshi Nishiwaki also expressed support for the secondary‑capital concept following the recent enactment of related legislation in the Diet. He noted that some observers question whether Kyoto, historically a former capital, needs the label, but reaffirmed the prefecture’s willingness to participate.

Both prefectures join Osaka and Fukuoka, which have previously declared their own candidacies for the secondary‑capital status, underscoring a growing regional competition to host alternative governmental functions.