#Japan #Tokyo #JAL #KANTSUNA #Two-Region Living

Two-Region Living Program 2026: Connecting Communities for Well-Being

Starting from July 17, 2026, Japan Airlines (JAL) will commence recruitment for its Two-Region Living Program titled "Connecting Lives 2026." This innovative initiative aims to enhance well-being through community connections and experiential living across 36 regions in Japan. Participants will benefit from accumulated JAL miles, making travel more affordable while engaging in unique regional experiences.

In 2026, the program will see significant expansion, increasing the number of participating regions to 36, enriching the experiences available to participants. The program is managed by KANTSUNA, a new company focused on efficiently matching remote workers with regions in Japan, making it easier for individuals to integrate into local lifestyles.

JAL Group's vision prioritizes resource sharing among individuals, businesses, and communities to foster connectivity and well-being. By promoting the two-region living lifestyle, JAL aims not only to revitalize local areas through increased engagement but also to create sustainable connections between residents and their communities, thereby enhancing overall well-being.

The foundation for this initiative began in the fiscal year 2025 when JAL tested the waters with a pilot program involving six municipalities. This initial approach proved successful, attracting three times the number of participants compared to the available spots. Feedback from participants highlighted the value of gaining a realistic perspective on life in the regions, with many establishing long-term relationships. Post-program surveys indicated a 1.5-point increase in well-being scores, surpassing the national average. Positive responses also came from host municipalities, resulting in extensions for some areas.

The upcoming program will allow participants to travel to their selected regions using JAL Group flights. For each round trip taken during their visits, participants will receive JAL miles for future trips. Additionally,