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Tohoku's Comeback: Migrants Revitalize Communities
7 Mar
Summary
- Fukushima saw 20,505 relocation inquiries in fiscal 2024.
- Fukushima experienced a record 3,799 new migrant families in fiscal 2024.
- Iwate saw a tenfold increase in relocation inquiries since 2015.

Fifteen years after a devastating earthquake and tsunami, Japan's Tohoku region is experiencing a resurgence of interest from individuals seeking to relocate. Fukushima Prefecture, notably, received 20,505 inquiries in fiscal 2024, ranking second nationally for migration interest. This prefecture also welcomed a record 3,799 families in fiscal 2024, marking a significant increase in young migrants following the lifting of evacuation orders.
Efforts to enhance Fukushima's appeal include a dedicated consultation center for areas affected by the nuclear accident. Prefectural officials anticipate positive impacts on local services like medical care and education. However, a persistent challenge is the shortage of adequate housing, as many pre-disaster structures have deteriorated or been dismantled.




