Imoriya was founded when Inoue and Morita relocated to Okugawa, Nishiaizu Town. Our mission is to preserve the Okugawa community and pioneer new social systems that can only be created in this unique place. We work on three main areas: providing housing for newcomers through real estate services, creating employment opportunities through job placement, and developing accommodations and local specialty products as regional industries. So far, we have successfully welcomed 3 households to Okugawa. Imoriya continues to explore innovative approaches that can only be realized here in Okugawa, ensuring this region thrives and endures for future generations to come.
Nishiaizu Town is located on the border between Fukushima and Niigata Prefectures, and Okugawa District sits in its northern part, within a heavy snowfall area. The Okugawa region is a mountainous area in northern Nishiaizu with a population of approximately 500 people. Only about 30 residents are under 50 years old, and the aging rate exceeds 60%. The area covers 13.35 square kilometers with a population density of 37.45 people per square kilometer, compared to Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward at 19,175 people per square kilometer. It is one of the prefecture's snowiest regions.
Depopulation and aging are already advanced here. Women in their 90s form the largest demographic group, followed by women in their 80s, suggesting the region could disappear within 20 years. However, Okugawa has a rich history. Many homes are traditional folk houses, and the townscape has remained unchanged since the Edo period. There are 21 settlements, each with its own shrine and festivals that have been passed down to the present day, connecting communities through these traditions.
Various initiatives are underway to preserve this culturally rich and naturally abundant region for future generations. One major effort is the Okugawa Community Development Council, established through collaboration between locals and newcomers. The council explores various approaches to community building, including supporting relationship populations. Activities include assisting with "Ninsoku" (community labor for maintaining waterways), preserving local festivals, and documenting these efforts through film. We at Imoriya were drawn to these regional initiatives, chose to relocate here, and established our company to help preserve this place for future generations.
other Information: