#Japan #JR Tokai #Local Research Lab #Nakatsugawa

The Launch of the Local Research Lab in Nakatsugawa by JR Tokai

In a significant step towards community development, JR Tokai, together with Nakatsugawa City and KESIKI, has initiated the Local Research Lab in Nakatsugawa. This new program aims to gather participants from within and outside the region to collaboratively conceive innovative ideas and engage in fieldwork that emphasizes revitalization and sustainable urban planning in the charming city, which once flourished as a post station along the Nakasendo route.

Background of the Program

As Nakatsugawa stands on the brink of transformation with the upcoming opening of the Linear Central Shinkansen, the city is set to navigate through pivotal historical changes. The initiative underscores the importance of 'relationship population' from the conomichi project, aimed at enhancing the connection between urban and rural areas. As per the Regional Revitalization 2.0 Basic Concept announced in June 2025, the government aims to create a population of 10 million with active regional ties, elevating local engagement and contributions.

Currently, the country estimates about 22.63 million people to be involved in regional initiatives, highlighting the growing desire for individuals to apply their skills to community-driven projects. MAJOR activities will involve workshops to discover and redefine the intrinsic value of Nakatsugawa's resources while blending local insight with perspectives from various participants.

Program Structure

The program consists of two distinct seasons. Season 1, running from August 18 to September 15, 2025, will focus on Re-reading and Exploring Value. Participants will engage in educational talks by industry experts, fieldwork across Nakatsugawa, and workshops designed to foster collaboration and innovative thinking. Noteworthy speakers, such as Shunsuke Ishikawa from KESIKI, will showcase successful design philosophies from other cities, delivering firsthand experience in transforming local assets into unique community values.

Following this, Season 2 will be dedicated to Concretizing and Conceiving Value from October to January, transferring ideas into actionable concepts that can be actively implemented. This phase emphasizes practical application, allowing participants to harness their creativity while ensuring feasibility in real-world scenarios. All generated ideas will eventually be presented in community exhibitions, showcasing Nakatsugawa’s revitalization journey.

Engaging with Local Insights

The core of the Local Research Lab in Nakatsugawa lies in its premise of inclusive participation. Both 'local players' (those residing within the region) and 'external players' (those from outside) are invited to contribute. This initiative ensures diverse input, promising rich discussions around the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Nakatsugawa. By facilitating a collaborative environment where varied insights converge, the program aspires to enable participants to address prevalent challenges, innovate in local strategies, and sketch a collective future.

Participant Eligibility and Application

To join, applicants should resonate with the goals of the program, express enthusiasm for community challenges, and seek to enhance their research and conceptual design skills. The application period runs from July 17 to August 11, 2025, and each session is limited to 20 participants. The participation fee varies based on residency, with discounts available for early registrants.

In conclusion, the Local Research Lab in Nakatsugawa heralds a promising opportunity for community members and external contributors alike to unite, fostering a renewed appreciation for local heritage while shaping a vibrant and sustainable future. This initiative not only positions Nakatsugawa as a model for regional revitalization but also invites a collective exploration of what makes a community resilient and forward-looking.

For further details on applying and participating, please visit the Local Research Lab in Nakatsugawa recruitment page.