Higashikawa tops Japan's 2026 migrant livability rankings

Daito Trust Construction has released its 2026 livability rankings, specifically focusing on the satisfaction levels of migrants who have moved to areas outside their birthplaces. Based on a massive survey of over 447,000 respondents, the data highlights how newcomers perceive their new environments compared to local residents.

In the national ranking for migrants, Higashikawa in Hokkaido secured first place for the second consecutive year. The town is noted for its lack of a public water system, relying instead on abundant groundwater from the Daisetsuzan mountain range, and is praised for its community friendliness and disaster prevention. Hara Village in Nagano ranked second, followed by Chatan in Okinawa in third place.

In the Okinawa-specific regional report, Chatan maintained its position as the most livable town for the eighth consecutive year, driven by high scores in friendliness and vibrancy. Meanwhile, Naha remains the most desired city to move to in Okinawa, holding the top spot for seven years running.