Leave Tokyo & Save the Country | Japanese Regional Revitalization Experiment ★ ONLY in JAPAN

Summary

In this episode of 'ONLY in Japan,' John Daub explores Kochi Prefecture, where rural areas are embracing innovative solutions to combat population decline and economic stagnation. He meets people like Ken Mukai, an American who started a craft beer business to revitalize a small town, and others working to make rural life appealing through sustainable practices, local ingredients, and unique community-focused initiatives. With stunning landscapes and a new wave of forward-thinking leaders, Kochi offers an inspiring look at rural Japan's transformation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tokyo is a dynamic city full of activity, but many people are choosing to leave urban life for rural areas like Kochi Prefecture to embrace a different pace of life.
• 😀 Japan is actively working on revitalizing its rural areas, using local businesses and community-driven initiatives to attract new residents and visitors.
• 😀 Ken Mukai, an American who moved to Kochi, started a craft beer brewery, Mukai Craft Beer, as part of a larger effort to breathe life into an aging town.
• 😀 Ken’s brewery, Blue Brew, uses locally sourced ingredients, such as hops and green tea, to create unique beers that reflect the area’s culture.
• 😀 Local events and breweries like Ken’s are helping bring together the community and attract visitors, contributing to the economic revitalization of the town.
• 😀 There is a significant challenge in rural Japan regarding the housing market, as many abandoned houses are not available for rent or purchase due to the reluctance of owners to rent to outsiders.
• 😀 Some rural communities, like Nyodogawa-machi, are overcoming the challenges of an aging population and shrinking workforce through supportive local leaders and government incentives.
• 😀 Yusuhara is a model town where modernization and preservation of local traditions work together to attract new residents while maintaining the town’s charm.
• 😀 Global trends like population decline and migration to cities are affecting rural areas worldwide, and Japan's rural communities are facing similar issues.
• 😀 Residents and entrepreneurs in rural Japan are finding innovative ways to adapt to the changing landscape, often by merging traditional practices with modern technology and infrastructure.
• 😀 While the lifestyle in rural towns can be challenging due to isolation and limited amenities, it offers a different type of freedom and connection to nature that some people find appealing, as seen in towns like Otoyo.

Q & A

Why did Ken Mukai decide to move to rural Japan and start a brewery?

Ken Mukai's move to rural Japan and the idea to start a brewery originated from a joke he made with friends. He initially had no intention of leaving his teaching career, but a friend later called him with an offer to move to Kochi, which ultimately led to him pursuing the brewery idea.

How does Ken Mukai incorporate local ingredients into his craft beer?

Ken uses locally grown ingredients like green tea, hops, and even berries to create unique craft beers. His brewery also experiments with unusual ingredients like tree bark to produce special brews.

What role does craft beer play in revitalizing the town of Nyodogawa?

Craft beer serves as a social hub, bringing people together and attracting visitors to Nyodogawa. Ken Mukai hopes it will not only revitalize the town but also draw new residents and tourists, creating a sustainable economic future for the area.

What challenges did Ken Mukai face when starting his brewery in Nyodogawa?

Ken faced several challenges, including the lack of support from some local residents who were resistant to change. However, he was able to receive backing from community leaders and the town, which helped him navigate the obstacles.

How does the town of Yusuhara serve as a model for rural revitalization in Japan?

Yusuhara has made significant improvements to its infrastructure, such as widening roads, adding sidewalks, and removing unsightly telephone poles. These changes have made the town more attractive to visitors and have demonstrated how modern architecture can blend with traditional elements, helping to revitalize rural areas.

Why is Yusuhara considered a successful example of rural transformation?

Yusuhara's transformation into a more modern, attractive town is a result of progressive leadership, including the mayor's efforts to relocate buildings and improve infrastructure. The town combined old traditions with new ideas, making it a more welcoming place for both residents and visitors.

How does Alex Kerr view the issues faced by rural towns like those in Japan?

Alex Kerr highlights that the decline of rural towns is a global issue, not just limited to Japan. He emphasizes that rejuvenating these areas requires balancing the preservation of traditional elements with modern developments to attract younger generations and create a sustainable future.

What are the main challenges faced by towns like Otoyo in Shikoku?

Otoyo faces economic depression, with a significant portion of its population living in poverty. The town's lack of job opportunities, declining population, and inadequate infrastructure make it one of the poorest areas in Japan. Despite this, its natural beauty, including whitewater rafting and forested landscapes, remains an asset.

How does Violet feel about living in the countryside with her family?

Violet acknowledges the challenges of living in the countryside, especially with young children. While the educational opportunities are limited, the family is tied to the area due to Violet's mother's ancestral roots. She also appreciates the natural beauty and the sense of history that the town offers.

What is the significance of the family grave in Otoyo for Violet?

Violet's family grave in Otoyo represents over 400 years of her family's history in the region. This deep connection to the land and her heritage is one of the key reasons she feels a strong attachment to the town, despite its economic challenges.