Japan regional migration and revitalization trends

Japan is experiencing a record high in interest regarding regional migration and dual-region living. Total migration consultations reached 73,003, an 18.3% increase from the previous year, with Gunma, Tochigi, and Nagano prefectures leading in inquiries. Despite this interest, the top three prefectures saw a net population outflow in 2025.

To address these trends, the government is utilizing legislation from November 2024 to promote ‘dual-region residency’ (nichiiki kyoju). This framework aims to establish 600 support plans and 600 support corporations within five years to help citizens maintain living bases in multiple locations. Additionally, the Local Revitalization Cooperation Corps has reached a record 8,196 members, with 70.3% of those completing their terms settling in their host regions.

Local governments are actively engaging in outreach to facilitate these moves. For example, Yamagata Prefecture scheduled a consultation event in Tokyo for October 2026, featuring representatives from eight municipalities to provide information on local life, childcare, and employment services.