#Japan #marriage support #Nyuzen Town #Relocation Program

Introduction to the Initiative

As local governments across Japan grapple with declining birth rates, the Japan Marriage Support Association has launched a promising initiative aimed at not just promoting marriage but also encouraging relocation to rural areas. Starting in April 2025, Nyuzen Town in Toyama Prefecture will be partnering with the Association to provide a unique service known as "Ijuu-kon" or "Marriage and Relocation". This program aims to match individuals seeking partners with people living in rural regions, offering a twofold solution to pressing societal issues.

Key Features of Ijuu-kon

1. Matching Relocation Seekers with Locals: This program focuses on connecting city residents looking to form a partnership with local inhabitants of Nyuzen Town. The initiative recognizes the desire for rural living — a sentiment that gained traction during the Covid-19 pandemic.

2. Addressing the Fear of Relocation: Many potential participants express anxiety about whether they can marry after relocating. Ijuu-kon aims to mitigate these fears by providing comprehensive support throughout the matchmaking process, including informational resources about life in Nyuzen Town.

3. Online Matching and Interviews: To ensure accessibility, the program conducts match-making and interviews online, allowing participants to engage comfortably from their existing location.

4. Community Issues: The scheme not only supports marriage but also seeks to tackle demographic issues affecting rural areas, such as the lack of women available for marriage, aging populations, and a pressing need for successors in local industries.

5. Cost-Effective Solutions: For those keen to relocate, there are no registration fees associated with the program, allowing for an inclusive approach without financial barriers. Additionally, local governments can implement the program at a minimal cost, making it accessible to a broader range of communities.

The Background and Goals of the Initiative

Many local municipalities have attempted to address declining birth rates through marriage support services, yet the results have been somewhat limited. Common challenges include:

• - Inadequate participation in local matchmaking events.
• - Hesitation to attend events due to fear of encountering familiar faces.
• - A cycle of repeat attendees leading to missed opportunities for new connections.
• - A noticeable shortage of unmarried women in certain areas, making it difficult to balance gender ratios.

Recognizing the need for fresh approaches, the Japan Marriage Support Association's Ijuu-kon initiative sets out to connect single individuals living in urban centers with those in rural regions. The program promotes not only romantic relationships but also aims to improve the living conditions in Nyuzen Town by providing opportunities for young families and individuals to thrive.

About Nyuzen Town

Nestled in the Kurobe River fan delta, Nyuzen Town is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery, featuring breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and the North Alps. The town, often referred to as the "town of fine water," has a rich agricultural heritage supported by the pristine waters of the Kurobe River, which has led to the area's designation as a location for premium products.

In addition to its picturesque landscapes, Nyuzen Town is home to notable attractions, such as the nationally designated natural monument “Sugisawa’s Cedar” and one of Japan's largest tulip gardens, the Nyuzen Flower Road. With strong community support in place for families and young people, Nyuzen is primed to become a desirable place for relocation through the Ijuu-kon initiative.

Getting to Nyuzen Town

Traveling to Nyuzen Town is convenient, with direct access via the shinkansen from Tokyo to Toyama Station in approximately two hours, followed by a short transfer on the Ainokaze Toyama Railway. The town offers a well-established living environment, complete with comprehensive support systems for parenting and relocation measures tailored for the younger generation.

In conclusion, the Japan Marriage Support Association is spearheading a momentous movement to enhance rural communities and tackle Japan's demographic challenges. The launch of the Ijuu-kon service in Toyama’s Nyuzen Town promises a new chapter in both personal and communal growth, bridging the gap between urban and rural lifestyles through the joy of love and partnership.

For more information, please visit the Japan Marriage Support Association's website or contact the Nyuzen Town office directly.