Discovering the Future of Toshima Village: New Community Portal Launches!

Unveiling the Future of Toshima Village with a New Portal Site

Toshima Village, a small island community located about 140 kilometers south of Tokyo, has recently launched a new community-centered portal site named "Flat More Hot Zutto Shima". Developed with the support of Satoyume Co., Ltd., this initiative aims to share real-time and engaging information about the village from the perspectives of its residents and past inhabitants, ultimately fostering a connection between the island and a broader audience.

A Brief About Toshima Village

Toshima Village, nestled in the Tama Islands, is surrounded by the sea and is known for its unique charm, with an area of about 8 kilometers and a population of around 300. Despite the trend of declining populations in rural areas throughout Japan, Toshima has maintained its numbers for over 50 years. The village is often referred to as the “Isle of Camellias,” as 80% of the island is covered with camellia trees, making it one of the leading producers of camellia oil in the country. Furthermore, fishing is a vital industry here, celebrated for local specialties like spiny lobsters and turban shells.

The Challenges Toshima Faces

Even with its strengths, Toshima faces pressing challenges. One notable issue is the outflow of young people who leave the island for education and employment opportunities, as there is no high school on the island. This migration creates concern about an aging population and a shortage of successors in key industries, including the flourishing camellia oil sector.

Recognizing these challenges, Toshima Village has taken steps aimed at sustainable development by enhancing the visibility of the island's appeal to encourage residency and attract visitors and potential newcomers. The launch of the portal site on April 1, 2025, is a critical part of these efforts.

Introducing "Flat More Hot Zutto Shima"

A Community Hub for All

"Flat More Hot Zutto Shima" serves as a platform for current residents, former inhabitants, and those intrigued by Toshima to connect and share experiences. The site encourages everyone interested in the island to visit casually— to engage more deeply with its vibrancy and ultimately create a warm communal atmosphere about the future of Toshima.

The site’s name embodies the vision of creating a lasting connection between the island and its visitors, nurturing mutual understanding and respect. This collaborative effort involves contributions from both residents and those who share a love for the island, making the portal a true community endeavor.

A Space for Unique Voices

One of the standout features of the portal is the role of "Zutto Shima Writers." These writers, hailing from various backgrounds—residents and those with roots in the village—will share insights and stories that capture the essence of everyday life in Toshima. This grassroots approach aims to provide visitors with a unique viewpoint that traditional tourist guides may overlook.

Relevant, Real-Time Insights

The portal will be a reliable resource for visitors, offering seasonal event updates, interviews with the diverse island community members, and personal anecdotes from daily life in Toshima. For those interested in exploring the island or deepening their understanding of its rich offerings, this site promises to be an essential stop.

A Call to Action

As the village prepares for the launch of "Flat More Hot Zutto Shima," the local government is optimistic about the positive impact it will have on community spirit and engagement. This innovative initiative represents not just a portal; it's a call to everyone to come together to appreciate and sustain the unique qualities of Toshima Village.

For inquiries and more information, please reach out to the Toshima Village Office, General Affairs Division at +81-4992-9-0012.