Have you ever dreamed of escaping the concrete jungle and embracing a simpler, more rural lifestyle? Well, now you can test-drive that dream in the picturesque prefecture of Kagoshima, Japan. This unique initiative, a collaboration between Kagoshima City, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and ANA Akindo, offers an enticing opportunity to experience rural Japan firsthand.
A Bridge to Rural Living
The program is designed as a welcoming gateway for young adults and families from major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, or Osaka to explore dual-region living. It's an immersive experience, connecting participants with local communities through hands-on activities, cultural exchanges, and outdoor adventures.
Choosing Your Rural Adventure
The program offers two distinct rural areas to explore: Yoshida, a tranquil countryside focused on family life, and Sakurajima, a volcanic island with a unique, smoking-volcano lifestyle.
Yoshida: A Family-Centric Retreat
The Parent-Child Discovery program in Yoshida invites groups or families of four to spend three days and two nights immersed in rural living. Imagine harvesting fresh produce, crafting local specialties like miso, and enjoying the serenity of hot springs and starry nights. Applications are open until September 30 for stays between mid-October 2026 and mid-January 2027.
Sakurajima: Life on a Volcano
Sakurajima offers a range of experiences, from daily life in local guest houses to volcanic adventures and seasonal harvests.
- Daily Life: Stay for at least four days, harvesting produce and cycling around the smoking volcano. Recruitment is open until January 31 for stays between October 1 and February 28.
- Volcanic Activities: Immerse yourself in nature with trekking, freediving, and even digging your own footbath. Recruitment is open until November 30 for stays between October 1 and December 24.
- Seasonal Harvest Experience: Work with local farmers to pick famous Sakurajima mandarins and giant radishes. Applications are accepted until December 31 for stays between December 1 and January 31.
- Guest House Open Bootcamp: Targeted at entrepreneurs, this program teaches participants how to revitalize abandoned houses and manage guest houses. The fixed stay period is February 21 to February 23, with applications accepted until December 31.
The Practicalities
While participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, food, and local transport costs, the program does offer some support. ANA Sky Coins provide round-trip airfare credit, and the program covers lodging and activity fees for most options.
A Step Towards Your Rural Dream
This initiative is a fantastic way to explore whether rural living is your true calling. Even if you don't see yourself settling down in Kagoshima, the prefecture offers a wealth of hidden gems and unique experiences. So, if you're ready to take the plunge, head over to the application portal and start planning your Kagoshima adventure!
