Osakikamijima, a small island off the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, is actively promoting inbound migration and akiya (abandoned houses) purchases. The island has attracted more foreign residents after establishing itself as an 'education island' by opening an international school and a small university. Welshman Simon Whalley and his wife Kaori purchased an akiya on the island when Simon landed a job at the local international school. Their $25,000 home, built in the 1970s, required minimal renovations. They are currently working on maintaining the 1.5-acre plot of land that accompanies their property. The couple hopes their efforts will boost tourism on the island and plans to convert an old mikan storage facility into a vegan-friendly Airbnb. Jason Lawrence, a New Zealander, moved to Osakikamijima in 2021 with his wife and children. They were attracted to the island's relaxed pace of life and strong education infrastructure. While initially considering an akiya, they decided to purchase a plot of land instead. Lawrence believes that more white-collar workers are seeking a rural lifestyle and escaping the urban rat race. Overall, Osakikamijima's efforts to attract newcomers and revitalize akiya properties have garnered interest from foreign residents looking for a change of pace and a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Type of Data Point - News or Reportage

Japan’s shrinking population offers escape from hectic city life - AlJazeera

Visit page of City/Town - Ōsakikamijima

Inserted: 14-07-2023 08:07:18