#Japan #Nagano #Shinjuku #Furusato LIFE #Hue-ish

Connecting Urban Youth with Their Roots

In a rapidly urbanizing world, many young people find themselves yearning for a connection to their roots. Recognizing this trend, Hue-ish Co., Ltd., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is launching an innovative program called 'Furusato LIFE Seminar in Shinshu' to help urban-dwelling youth engage with rural communities. Designed as a hands-on initiative under the Nagano Prefecture's 'Shinshu Tsunagu Monogatari Project,' the program is set to invite participants to explore their regional ties and discover new opportunities for connection.

Overview of the Furusato LIFE Seminar

The Furusato LIFE Seminar represents a unique opportunity for participants to explore relationships with their hometown in a way that exceeds traditional tourism, yet doesn’t require complete relocation. With the increasing popularity of telecommuting and side jobs, many individuals between the ages of 20 and 40 are expressing a desire to connect more intimately with their local areas. However, a survey by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism reported that nearly half of the individuals interested in regional engagement feel uncertain about how to start or lack a suitable opportunity. This seminar aims to serve as that crucial first step by facilitating an ambassadorial role within one's home region over the span of three months.

Key Features of the Seminar

Participants will engage as 'Furusato Ambassadors,' nurturing their relationships with their regions while remaining in urban settings. The program runs entirely from Tokyo's Ginza district or online, with a schedule designed to accommodate working individuals, primarily focusing on weekends.

• - Engaging with Local Creators: Participants will actively interview and interact with regional 'creators,' people who are instrumental in invigorating local communities. This not only provides enriching interactions but also allows participants to create meaningful relationships.
• - Visualizing Future Career Paths: The seminar encourages attendees to reassess their living and working situations for the next 5 or 15 years, allowing for exploratory thinking about potential career shifts or new life paths.
• - Encouraging Unlearning: Participants will use this opportunity to gently challenge their existing beliefs and assumptions about regional connections through practice and reflection.
• - Personal Storytelling and Content Creation: Attendees will also have the chance to communicate their personal insights and the unique allure of their region through articles and presentations.

Curriculum Structure

The seminar encourages learning from peers through a continuous cycle of education, practice, introspection, and verbalizing insights over the three-month period.

Application Process

The details for participating in the Furusato LIFE Seminar are as follows:

• - Program Duration: Starts from August 24 to November 3, 2025.
• - Format: Combines in-person sessions in Tokyo (specifically Ginza) and online gatherings (8 sessions plus optional local visits).
• - Participant Limit: Approximately 20 individuals. In case of a high volume of applications, a selection process will be conducted.
• - Cost: Participation is free; however, participants must bear their own travel and local visit expenses.
• - Target Audience: Primarily urban residents in their 20s to 40s who are interested in regional engagement.
• - Sign-Up: Consider attending an introductory meeting to learn more about the program!

Ideal Candidates for the Seminar

This seminar is particularly well-suited for individuals who want to connect with their regions but feel that moving is a step too far. It appeals to those eager to explore relationships beyond traditional travel experiences and may be seeking innovative avenues for their work and lifestyle. Participants will have the opportunity to articulate their thoughts and experiences in relation to their hometown.

Information Session

To facilitate the application process, an information session is required for those interested in applying. Upcoming sessions include:

• - August 2 (Saturday) 20:00 - 21:00 via ZOOM.
• - August 5 (Tuesday) 19:00 - 21:30 at Social Bar PORTO, Nihonbashi.
• - August 7 (Thursday) 12:00 - 13:00 via ZOOM.
• - August 11 (Monday, holiday) 20:00 - 21:00 via ZOOM.
• - August 13 (Wednesday) 20:00 - 21:00 via ZOOM.

Interested individuals are encouraged to attend the online information sessions to engage in a personal conversation with the program leaders and clarify any inquiries they might have about the program.

Company Profile

Company Name: Hue-ish Co., Ltd.
Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Established: August 2022
CEO: Saya Kanbara
Business Focus: Learning design and community engagement initiatives
Website: https://hue-ish.com

Contact Us

For further inquiries, please reach out to the Hue-ish public relations team at [email protected].