#Japan #Tokushima #NARUTO #Rural Development #Otetutabi

Otetutabi's Milestone in Rural Development

Otetutabi, a unique matching platform that combines assistance and travel, has recently achieved significant recognition by obtaining the "Certification for Contribution Activities to Rural Development" from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. This noteworthy certification highlights the company’s efforts to address labor shortages and promote migration in rural areas, particularly in the city of Naruto, Tokushima Prefecture.

The Significance of This Certification

In March 2026, a ceremony was held at the Ministry of Agriculture to celebrate the awarding of this certification, marking a historical moment for Otetutabi. The certification is part of a new initiative launched by the Ministry aimed at fostering sustainable economic and social environments in Japan's rural and mountain fishing villages.

The system provides an external evaluation and validation for companies that are actively engaged in collaborative efforts to resolve the challenges faced by these regions. Given the ongoing issue of population decline in rural areas, this certification signifies that Otetutabi's efforts are likely to continue generating specific social and environmental impacts well into the future.

Concrete Contributions in Naruto City

Otetutabi’s collaboration with Naruto City has resulted in several concrete outcomes from April 2023 to August 2025:

• - Participating Businesses: Eleven local businesses have benefited from Otetutabi's services.
• - Migration and Entrepreneurship: One individual relocated to Naruto City and successfully started a business as a direct result of participating in Otetutabi's programs.

These efforts transcend merely supplying labor; they also offer opportunities to engage with local culture through the unique experience of “half-farming, half-X” lifestyle, providing a holistic impact on community revitalization, well-being, and nature-positive contributions.

Future Directions: Accelerating U-Turn and Half-Farming Initiatives

Following this certification, Otetutabi is poised to extend its rural engagement and migration policies across Japan, targeting especially those who have moved away for university or work. By emphasizing the “half-farming, half-X” concept, Otetutabi aims to foster U-turn opportunities for those considering returning to rural areas.

The solid backing from the government not only enhances the credibility of its initiatives but also allows for expanded collaborations with public institutions and private enterprises, thus contributing to the sustainability of rural living environments.

Strategic Partnerships in Naruto

On July 16, 2024, Otetutabi entered into a partnership agreement with Naruto City, committed to promoting migration, expanding community connections, and addressing labor shortages. These collaborations are vital for building sustainable local communities, evidenced by various joint initiatives in the past, such as:

• - Winning the Special Award at the First National Sharing City Awards.
• - Supporting a dual career development model combining agriculture with modern lifestyle choices.

The partnerships extend beyond Naruto City, involving over 70 municipalities across Japan, demonstrating Otetutabi’s commitment to fostering rural development joint with local governments.

What is Otetutabi?

Launched in January 2019, Otetutabi provides a unique matching service that links travelers seeking short-term employment with local businesses in need of help, facilitating economic benefits and cultural exchange. Travelers cover their transportation costs but earn wages while working, making travel more affordable and enriching their experiences through local engagement.

This model not only helps alleviate immediate labor shortages but also creates lasting community connections, fostering a new demographic of engaged individuals passionate about rural living.

• ---

As Otetutabi continues to thrive, it is actively seeking press coverage to further promote its impact across Japan. If you are interested in learning more or covering events related to Otetutabi, please reach out through their dedicated media inquiry channels.

Company Overview:

• - Name: Otetutabi Inc.
• - CEO: Rina Nagaoka
• - Headquarters: Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
• - Founded: July 2018
• - Capital: ¥70,286,500
• - Website: otetsutabi.com