About Design for Japan

In 2024, the Japanese government identified over 1700 towns across Japan that are at risk of disappearing by 2050 due to shrinking, aging populations and declining local industry.

Many of these towns are in beautiful natural locations, with rich histories & traditions and extensive transport links, yet are largely unknown by both local and international tourists at a time when Japan is welcoming more tourists than ever before.

Design for Japan was started by a group of internationally minded designers in Japan who realized how fresh outside perspectives, combined with the power of design, could help revitalize these towns.

Through Design for Japan, we aim to allow creative professionals from around the world who love Japan to come and contribute their expertise, while learning about Japan and making lifelong connections with the local community and fellow participants from around the world.

Our programs are about taking a step back from the fast paced world of big tech & AI and getting back to basics - using research and design to understand human problems and create simple and effective solutions that can be immediately implemented by municipalities with little resources or technical expertise.

If that sounds like something you are interested in, join us!