

Photos by Lee Chapman ( Tokyo Times )

This project explores the ongoing crisis of rural depopulation in Japan, which has significant social, cultural, and economic repercussions. Through on-site research, interviews, and visual documentation, we will explore the factors contributing to this trend and the possible solutions. While urban areas are increasingly viewed as the future of living, rural communities continue to shrink at an alarming rate.
We aim to understand this dynamic from a personal, human-centered perspective and present our findings in a thoughtfully designed book and digital platform. By visiting local towns, engaging with residents, and collecting stories and data, we hope to raise awareness and highlight possible paths forward.