Takachiho in Miyazaki Prefecture have such a wealth of distinctive local resources to show off to the world, including mythology, history, natural environment and the traditional local culture of Kagura.

In addition, the lifestyle and activities that have been handed down from generation to generation in the harsh environment and unique terrain of the mountainous region has been highly valued, and in December 2015 the town was recognised as a World Agricultural Heritage Site.

On the other hand, the region faces a number of challenges, such as a declining population and a lack of industry driving forces due to the falling birthrate and ageing population. In order to create a sustainable region, there is an urgent need to develop human resources in order to solve these problems.

This workshop aims to increase the number of people who are involved in solving problems in Takachiho in various ways by providing a program for participants who wish to make use of their own experience and knowledge in the region. This by created a business plans through fieldwork and dialogue that links the town’s unique regional resources with businesses active in the region.

Previously conducted workshops in Takachiho:

Living, Protecting and Building the Future in Takachiho Town, a survey conclusion on Rediscovering the Strengths and Challenges of Takachiho Town part 1

Living, Protecting and Building the Future in Takachiho Town, a survey conclusion on Rediscovering the Strengths and Challenges of Takachiho Town part 2

Living, Protecting and Building the Future in Takachiho Town, a survey conclusion on Rediscovering the Strengths and Challenges of Takachiho Town part 3

Living, Protecting and Building the Future in Takachiho Town, a survey conclusion on Rediscovering the Strengths and Challenges of Takachiho Town part 4

Who should participate in the workshop?

People who are willing to face the various problems in Takachiho, such as maintenance and care of the natural landscape, succession of traditional performing arts, population decline, preservation of rare plants and animals, continuity of livelihood and so on. Those who work together with people in the community to explore and come up with ideas to solve them. Anyone who is willing to get involved with Takachiho through this opportunity.

Workshop outline

■ Date: March 2nd (Sat) and March 3rd (Sun), 2024 *One night and two days (planned)

■ Place: Conference Room, Takachiho Town Hall (13 Oaza Mitai, Takachiho Town)

■ Number of participants: Limited to 5 people (applications will close when the number of participants is reached) *Students are also welcome!

■ Participation fee: Free of charge

※We will partially cover the cost of transportation and accommodation to Takachiho Town.
※We will arrange accommodation for you.
※Please contact us for more details.

■ Organised by: Takachiho Town (Commissioning company: DHE Corporation)

■ Contents:

Seminars

Seminars on the theme ‘Business (challenge) potential in the region’ will be conducted by mentors. Participants learn about common perspectives for fieldwork and business plan studies.

Fieldwork

Participants learn about the town’s attractions, strengths and potential through on-site inspections and participation in interviews with businesses in Takachiho that are taking on various challenges. Local businesses (producers) will talk about their initiatives, their thoughts on their businesses and what they think about the region through point of businessview.

Participant work

Based on the seminar and fieldwork, participants are asked to come up with a ‘business plan’ of what they can do in Takachiho. They will also receive advice from the mentors to deepen the possibilities.

Presentation and general comments

In addition to the participants, mentors and businesses, the project plans will be presented to the town mayor and townspeople (free participation invited) to share the possibilities of Takachiho.

Reviewer: Muneyuki Kai, Mayor of Takachiho Town

Time schedule (tentative)

Saturday, March 2nd

11:00 Opening and seminar (*Registration starts at 10:30; please come to the Takachiho Town Hall meeting room)

12:00 Lunch

13:00 Fieldwork in Takachiho Town

17:30 Summary of Day 1 activities

18:30 Social gathering

21:00 Dismissal

Sunday March 3rd

08:00 Gathering – Work to deepen ideas

12:00 Presentation – General comments

14:00 Closing (planned)

For further information or enquiries, please get in touch with:

DHE Corporation (contractor) Contact: Sato, Yanagihara

E-mail: inb@dhe.co.jp

Please state your name, age, place of residence (prefecture), occupation and telephone number (where you can be contacted during the day).