#Japan #Kichijoji #Local Revitalization #Nozawa Onsen #CoBREW

Bridging Hometown Ties: Nozawa Onsen Connect Event in Tokyo

In an inspiring initiative aimed at strengthening the bonds between Nozawa Onsen villagers and their hometown, CoBREW, a community-oriented coworking space based in Musashino City, Tokyo, is hosting the event "Nozawa Onsen Connect in Tokyo - Wakeshukai" on July 4, 2026. Designed for those aged between 20 and 40 who once called Nozawa Onsen home, this gathering will take place in the heart of Kichijoji, renowned for its vibrant community scene.

The event is not just your run-of-the-mill reunion. At its core, it embodies the concept of fostering sustainable regional revitalization through genuine connections. While many initiatives tend to focus on encouraging migration or attracting tourism, CoBREW believes that long-term sustainability arises from nurturing relationships with people who hold deep ties to their hometown.

Leaving for the city does not mean abandoning one’s roots; the yearning for one’s hometown often remains intact. However, many individuals may feel uncertain about how to engage meaningfully with their community from afar. This event aims to transform these feelings into actionable connections, providing an avenue for attendees to engage with Nozawa Onsen in innovative ways beyond the traditional homecoming.

Addressing the Challenges of Nozawa Onsen Village

Nozawa Onsen has earned a prominent spot on the global tourism map, attracting visitors from all corners of the world. Yet, like many rural areas, it faces several pressing challenges, including:

• - A shortage of housing
• - The issue of vacant homes and heirs
• - The need for maintaining community ties
• - A waning connection with younger generations

The upcoming event will serve as a platform for Nozawa Onsen's expatriates residing in Tokyo to gather, understand the present circumstances of their homeland, and contemplate personal ways to contribute. The goal is to develop forms of engagement that go beyond mere nostalgia or reunion, fostering an environment where participants can explore how they might positively impact their village.

There are many ways to contribute: from assisting in spreading awareness about Nozawa Onsen, fostering connections, exploring job opportunities, or even contemplating a dual-living situation closer to their roots—all these small yet significant engagements can cumulatively create a deeper connection with their community.

Comments from the Wakeshukai Committee

A representative from the Wakeshukai Committee expressed their hopes for the event saying, "It brings us joy to see those who live away from Nozawa Onsen reconnect with their roots and think about future engagements. We anticipate that these new 'relationship populations' initiatives will lead to a bright future for the region."

Insights from CoBREW's Leadership

Eiji Fujiwara, CEO of CoBREW, shared his vision for regional revitalization, stating, "Revitalization does not hinge solely upon migration or tourism. There are meaningful ways to connect with one’s community right from Tokyo. At CoBREW, we have established spaces that embody the principle of 'co-creation,' serving as a bridge between people and their communities. Even those who have departed still cherish their attachment to their hometown. Changing that attachment into new forms of engagement can pave the way for sustainable regional revitalization."

Event Details

At CoBREW, we strive to connect urban and rural communities, fostering environments that generate exciting new endeavors. If you are interested in being part of this meaningful initiative, we encourage you to participate in this event!