#Japan #Kayac #Tokyo, Osaka #Regional Revitalization #Ministry of Internal Affairs

Connecting Communities: Matching Event for Regional Revitalization Initiatives in Japan

The Ministry of Internal Affairs is hosting an extraordinary matching event titled "Regional Revitalization Enmusubi Caravan" to facilitate collaborations between local municipalities and individuals interested in contributing to regional initiatives. This event aims to foster connections based on compatibility among the over 80 participating municipalities. The caravan will take place in Tokyo and Osaka, with dates set for October 12, November 2, and November 29, 2025.

Event Overview

Collaborated by Kayac Inc., located in Kamakura, and Betsushiten Co., based in Tokyo, this initiative will present a platform for local governments seeking regional revitalization volunteers to interact with community-minded individuals. Attendees will be able to experience direct interactions that focus on shared values and interests. To streamline the matching process, unique elements such as hashtag cards and dynamic stage presentations will be introduced.

Participants will receive a "#hashtag card" and a "municipality card" upon entry. The hashtag card will allow participants to visualize their interests and field of potential collaboration while the municipality card provides an overview of each participating locality's appeal. The goal is to identify common ground efficiently and create matches with minimal discrepancies, enhancing the potential for long-term partnerships.

Unique Features of the Event

1. Visualizing Interests: Each participant will wear the hashtag card openly, showcasing their key interests across four categories: employment conditions, activity fields, community engagement, and living environments. This visual representation allows local government representatives to start meaningful conversations based on mutual interests.

2. Consultation Booths: For attendees with uncertainties about relocating or understanding the cooperation program, dedicated consultation booths will be available. Specialists from the regional revitalization promotion organization and the cooperation隊 support desk will provide personalized advice to address concerns.

3. Stage Presentations: Instead of traditional presentations, the event will feature a dialogue format with up to four local representatives discussing various themes. This engaging format ensures that attendees can grasp the essence of each region, including the passion and personality of the representatives, which brochures might not convey.

Event Details

The event will take place as per the following schedule:

• - Tokyo (1st Session): October 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the Tokyo Traffic Hall, Chiyoda.
• - Osaka: November 2, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM at OMM Building, Osaka.
• - Tokyo (2nd Session): November 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the Tokyo Traffic Hall, Chiyoda.

Participation is free of charge, and those interested in regional revitalization initiatives or potential relocation are encouraged to register on the official website: Registration Page.

Background and Objective of the Event

Japan's Regional Revitalization Collaboration Program, initiated in 2009, aims to address challenges such as declining populations and aging demographics in rural areas by recruiting urban talent to enhance regional capabilities. As of April 2025, the number of participants has reached a record high, with expectations to increase further in the coming years. However, there are still barriers to participation primarily due to participants' uncertainty regarding which regions would suit them.

The Caravan seeks to remedy this disconnect by enabling direct dialogue and showcasing the strengths of various regions. This approach is expected to foster greater awareness and interest in the regional revitalization program.

For more details about Kayac and Betsushiten, which are facilitating this initiative:

• - Kayac Inc. focuses on innovative content creation and connecting communities through various platforms. More information can be found at Kayac's Website.
• - Betsushiten Co. aims to enhance regional appeal by orchestrating events that allow visitors to connect with local cultures. For further insights, visit Betsushiten's Website.