A recent survey reveals a record 143,000 vacant houses in Mie, with 1 in 6 homes empty. The aging homes pose collapse risks, affecting disaster response. To tackle this, the prefecture has increased renovation subsidies up to 500,000 yen since April. Efforts include promoting reuse and demolition to revitalize rural areas.
Each time I visit the southern part of the prefecture for reporting, I am surprised by the noticeable number of vacant houses. Even in the bustling tourist area of Ise-Shima, abandoned stores and houses stand out.
For a Tokyo-born reporter with a hobby of fishing, Mie offers a fulfilling private life amid rich nature. However, the threshold for deciding to move and live in these areas can be high for those accustomed to urban convenience. The prefecture's initiatives to promote migration and the reuse of vacant houses are steps toward revitalizing these rural areas. The hope is that more people will find value in the rural lifestyle, leading to a vibrant community once again.
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by fujiwara___
