Japan regional migration interest hits record high

Japan is seeing a significant rise in interest regarding regional migration and dual-region living. According to the 2025 migration destination rankings, Gunma, Tochigi, and Nagano prefectures ranked first, second, and third respectively in consultation inquiries. Total migration consultations reached a record high of 73,003, an 18.3% increase from the previous year. However, despite high interest, all three top prefectures experienced a net population outflow in 2025.

To support these trends, the government is promoting ‘dual-region residency’ (nichiiki kyoju) through legislation that went into effect in November 2024. This framework allows municipalities to create specific plans and designate support corporations to help people maintain living bases in multiple locations. The government aims to establish 600 support plans and 600 support corporations within five years.

Additionally, the Local Revitalization Cooperation Corps has reached a record high of 8,196 members. Data shows that 70.3% of members who completed their terms in the last five years settled in their host regions, with many pursuing entrepreneurship or local employment. The program is increasingly being used as a low-risk entry point through internships and trial periods.