#Japan #Tokyo #Ote-Tsutabi #Senior Travelers #Travel Opportunities

Embracing 'Ote-Tsutabi': A New Trend for Senior Travelers

In the summer of 2023, 'Ote-Tsutabi', a unique workforce matching platform combining travel with short-term jobs, continues to gain traction across various regions in Japan. Originally designed to alleviate labor shortages in the tourism sector, this initiative has recently seen a remarkable increase in participation from the middle-aged and senior demographic. By the summer of 2025, it is projected that about 29% of participants will be aged 50 and above, highlighting the growing appeal of this travel opportunity for older adults seeking new experiences and social connections.

What is 'Ote-Tsutabi'?

'Ote-Tsutabi' seamlessly links travelers with local businesses facing worker shortages. The platform allows individuals to engage in short-term work while enjoying what each region has to offer. Although travelers are responsible for their own transportation expenses, the compensation received from these jobs reduces the overall economic burden of travel. Additionally, participants can immerse themselves in local culture and lifestyles, enhancing their travel experiences.

For local businesses, 'Ote-Tsutabi' represents a solution to staffing challenges. By offering remuneration and accommodations to workers from outside the area, businesses can recruit help without the need to cover travel expenses. Employment can last anywhere from a minimum of one night to just under two months, with flexible arrangements for work hours and duties. This system not only addresses labor shortages during peak seasons but also encourages workers to explore local attractions during their downtime, contributing to regional economic revitalization.

Growth and Popularity

The registered user base of 'Ote-Tsutabi' has recently surpassed 80,000, a significant increase from just 5,000 in 2021. As of July 2025, more than 2,000 businesses are registered, comprising primarily of accommodations such as hotels and inns, and significant sectors like agriculture and fishing. Recently, other industries, including guesthouses, campgrounds, breweries, seafood processing, and restaurants, have also joined the platform.

Interestingly, though nearly half of the current participants belong to the younger Generation Z—aged 10-20—there has been a notable rise in registrations from older individuals. Recent retirees and homemakers looking for new adventures are increasingly turning to 'Ote-Tsutabi' to fulfill their travel aspirations. Participants aged 50 and over now account for approximately one in four registered users, driven by a need to travel without overspending amidst rising living costs. Additionally, the growth of remote work and workations has made location-independent lifestyles more attainable.

Reasons for Participation

Surveys conducted among travelers aged 50 and above reveal numerous motivations for engaging with 'Ote-Tsutabi':

• - Deepening Connections: Participants appreciate the extended stays that allow them to genuinely engage with local culture. One 50-year-old woman expressed her enjoyment of discovering new places and meeting people through prolonged engagement.
• - Alternative to Typical Travel: Some travelers, like a 60-year-old woman, prefer the unique exploration that comes with participating in 'Ote-Tsutabi', seeing it as a refreshing departure from standard tourism.
• - Life Stage Adjustments: For others, such as a 50-year-old male who left a long-term job, this platform provides a challenging yet fulfilling way to navigate new life stages and experiences after retirement.
• - Economic Benefits: Many, like a woman in her 50s, are motivated by the potential cost savings that come with receiving lodging for work while still traveling. Experienced travelers seek enjoyment without the hefty price tag.

An Age-Inclusive Platform

A key benefit of 'Ote-Tsutabi' is its open-age recruitment policy. By welcoming participants of all ages, the platform attracts a diverse user base. This inclusivity caters to individuals seeking varied cultural experiences and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to local communities. Some participants have even utilized 'Ote-Tsutabi' as a means to explore potential relocation to rural areas.

The Vision for 'Ote-Tsutabi'

'Ote-Tsutabi' aims to establish a new flow of human resources into rural areas, tackling the pressing issue of labor shortages. It fosters deep connections between participants and local residents, extending beyond mere tourism. Each engagement is seen as a step towards developing lasting relationships, transforming once-passing visitors into ongoing supporters of local communities.

As Japan faces ongoing demographic challenges, 'Ote-Tsutabi' aspires to evolve beyond a simple staffing solution. The platform envisions an ecosystem where individuals fulfill multiple roles, facilitating the circulation of people, resources, and finances, ultimately benefiting local regions and economies.

For those interested in learning more, please visit the official site of 'Ote-Tsutabi' to discover the possibilities it holds for both travelers and local communities alike.

Contact and Company Information

Founded in July 2018, the company behind 'Ote-Tsutabi' has been instrumental in creating this innovative service. With offices in Tokyo and Hamamatsu, the team is excited to expand their reach and continuously embrace the diverse relationships fostered through travel and work.