Innovative Discussions at Yamanashi Prefecture's 4th Ambassador Study Session

Summary of the 4th Yamanashi Prefecture Ambassador Study Session

On December 17, 2025, the fourth session of the Yamanashi Prefecture Ambassador Study Session concluded successfully. This initiative, run by Imajina Inc. in collaboration with the Yamanashi Prefecture Office for New Value Creation and Regional Development, aims to enhance recognition of the 'Kaito no Kuni' brand, which encapsulates Yamanashi's innovative strategies for the future. This article sheds light on the progress made in discussions from the first to the fourth sessions, and highlights the upcoming final session scheduled for February 2026, where a significant dialogue will take place between Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki and Imajina's president, Yoshiki Sekino.

Background and Purpose of the Yamanashi Ambassador Study Session

As Yamanashi Prefecture approaches the milestone opening of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen, a transformative era beckons for the region, presenting unique opportunities and challenges. One key concern is that the intricacies of government-led initiatives often fail to resonate with the local population. Hence, this study group was formed, catering to influential community members, the 'Kensei Ambassadors', to disseminate the stories and visions behind vital initiatives like the Linear Shinkansen, Futaba Tram, and DX (Digital Transformation). The goal is to expand brand recognition and foster collective empathy.

Recap of Sessions 1 to 4

Throughout the first four sessions, various themes have sparked vigorous discussions:

Session 1: Redefining Mobility with Linear and Futaba Tram

- Date: September 19, 2025
- Overview: The session focused on transforming transportation in Yamanashi through the Linear and the concept of the Futaba Tram, a modern-type tram aimed at solving tourist overcrowding and environmental concerns surrounding Mt. Fuji. Discussions emphasized environmentally conscious alternatives like non-rail bound, rubber-tired transportation systems, along with potential regulations to limit private car use, enhancing secondary transportation post-Linear’s launch.

Session 2: Embracing Yamanashi as a Testbed for Innovation

- Date: October 16, 2025
- Overview: Yamanashi is poised to become a 'massive testbed' for innovative projects, adopting the slogan 'Yamanashi is close to challenges.' A total of 50 projects are planned to be piloted in the ninth phase, with advancements in drone delivery and hydrogen energy being showcased during the session.

Session 3: The Three-Dimensional Transportation Revolution

- Date: November 4, 2025
- Overview: This session highlighted the practicality of aerial transportation (eVTOL) in mountainous Yamanashi. Advantages like noise reduction and cost efficiency were discussed, alongside collaboration efforts with prominent companies like JAL and MS&AD to explore aerial transport for tourism, emergency services, and disaster logistics.

Session 4: Propagating DX through Local Initiatives

- Date: December 17, 2025
- Overview: To catalyze digital transformation among the region's small and medium-sized enterprises, the 'Locally Driven DX' initiative was introduced. Programs like 'Yamanashi Digital × Connect' aim to provide free digital literacy education to all residents, while 'Digi-Support! Yamanashi' fosters the development of high school and university students into DX talent to solve local business challenges. Utilizing generative AI to facilitate proposals received enthusiastic feedback from participants.

Looking Forward: Final Session Featuring a Dialogue between Leaders

As the study group progresses towards its culminating session, slated for February 2026, anticipation is building for a special dialogue set to take place between Governor Kotaro Nagasaki and Imajina’s Yoshiki Sekino. This exchange will focus on brand strategies and leadership in positioning Yamanashi as a globally recognized locale.

Scheduled for: February 28, 2026
The discussion will center on designing investments in human capital, reflecting a commitment to international exchange and the future of Yamanashi.

About Imajina Inc.

Imajina specializes in enhancing branding efforts, assisting organizations in articulating their core values and communicating these effectively both internally and externally. President Yoshiki Sekino is deeply engaged in local revitalization and branding efforts in Yamanashi Prefecture.

Company Profile:

- Name: Imajina Inc.
- CEO: Yoshiki Sekino
- Headquarters: 3-5-2 Kōjimachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- Established: June 2006
- Services Provided: Branding (internal/external), human resources consulting, personnel system design, recruitment branding, support for regional revitalization projects, among others.
- Website: imajina.com