The "Alliance of Governors Supporting Future Generations for Japan's Revitalization," formed by 12 young governors aiming to revitalize regional areas, held the "Like! Regional Living Fair" on February 14 at the Sunshine City Cultural Hall in Toshima Ward, Tokyo.
At the venue, booths from 12 prefectures—Miyagi, Fukushima, Nagano, Mie, Shiga, Tottori, Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Tokushima, Kochi, and Miyazaki—introduced and sold local specialties. They also set up consultation corners to appeal to potential migrants about the appeal of living, raising children, and working in these regions.
On stage, various programs were held, including a talk show titled "Raising Children in Nature-Rich Rural Areas" featuring Miki Fujimoto, a mother of two who continues her talent activities; a talk show titled "Let's Live in the Countryside!" with journalist Daisuke Tsuda and talent MEGUMI; and a marriage and matchmaking support symposium. These sessions discussed rural environments suitable for marriage and child-rearing, along with firsthand accounts from those who actually relocated to the countryside. Many mothers with small children were in the audience, nodding in agreement as they heard about the relaxed approach to child-rearing that differs from urban areas.
Governor Moriichi Abe of Nagano Prefecture (to his left)
During the relay presentations by the governors, nine governors took the stage in turn, passionately promoting the appeal of their respective prefectures. Following this, as the "Governors' Alliance for Supporting Future Generations to Revitalize Japan"—established to halt Japan's population decline and reverse the trend of overconcentration in Tokyo—they jointly declared their commitment to creating a society that fulfills the hopes of young people living in regional areas. They spoke about the appeal of regional life, including abundant nature, rich resources, traditional culture, and supportive communities. Finally, they united in saying, "Yes! Let's live in the regions!" and displayed a powerful victory pose.
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