Innovative Bus Tour to Revitalize Tobe Town's Untapped Assets

Tobe Town is embracing an exciting new initiative called the 'ToBe Bus Tour 2025.' In collaboration with Iyo Bank and WhitePlanet, this project aims to explore and revitalize the town's unused assets, making the most of them through community collaboration. Scheduled for November 28, 2025, this community-driven event invites ideas and perspectives that could redefine how these properties contribute to the vibrant culture of Tobe.

Context of the Project

Located in Ehime Prefecture, Tobe Town is known for its traditional craft, Tobe-yaki ceramics, and is just a short 30-minute drive from Matsuyama City. Recently, Tobe has faced challenges such as declining birth rates and a dwindling population, leading to an increase in vacant schools and properties. While these unused assets pose maintenance challenges, they also hold significant potential for new ventures when utilized creatively.

The 'ToBe Bus Tour 2025' strives to transform the perception of these assets from mere problems into valuable resources. By inviting businesses and community members to come together, the tour aims to spark discussions on how to harness these dormant properties for future development.

Event Overview

The tour promises a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Tobe while exploring its potential. The itinerary includes visits to various locations of interest, including former schools, vacant stores, and Tobe-yaki pottery kilns. Participants will engage in discussions and activities designed to foster creative thinking about how to invigorate local businesses.

Highlights of the Tour

Participants will not only visit these properties but also connect with local government officials and other attendees to exchange ideas on innovative ways to revitalize their surroundings. Local cuisine will be featured during lunch, adding to the immersive experience of Tobe's community life. This tour is particularly aimed at entrepreneurs and businesses interested in discovering new locations for their next endeavor.

Featured Properties

1. Takaichi Elementary School (Property Available for Purchase or Lease)
- Nestled in nature, this former school building offers a warm wooden ambiance. With well-maintained facilities and generous space, it holds potential for community spaces, offices, or studios.

2. Third Pottery Workshop (Building Free Transfer, Land Free Lease)
- Located near a scenic path crossing a suspension bridge, this workshop comes equipped with pottery kilns and ample workspace, ready for creative endeavors in a culturally rich setting.

3. Kobushi Dining (Building Free Lease, Land Lease)
- A charming restaurant along a beautiful riverside drive, with recently upgraded amenities, the site is well-positioned to attract customers thanks to its proximity to major tourist routes.

Schedule of the Tour

- Date: November 28, 2025
- Location: Tobe Town, Ehime Prefecture (Starting point: Tobe Town Hall parking lot)
- Application Period: September 19, 2025, to November 7, 2025
- Participation Limit: 20 companies or individuals considering new business ventures
- Tentative Itinerary:

- 09:00: Registration
- 09:30: Opening Remarks
- 10:30: Visit to local vacant properties
- 12:00: Lunch and Networking
- 13:00: Continue touring additional sites
- 15:15: Workshop
- 16:30: Closing Remarks
- 17:00: Adjournment

Project Administration

This initiative is managed by the To Be Town Project under the auspices of Tobe Town and Iyo Bank, with collaboration from WhitePlanet, guiding this innovative effort to redefine Tobe's future.

For more information and to apply for participation, please visit the official event website here. Join us on this remarkable journey as we explore the dreams and possibilities within Tobe Town and awaken its hidden treasures!