Gunma Prefecture has been ranked the most preferred relocation destination for the second consecutive year, driven by concerns over rising urban living costs and artificial intelligence recommendations. According to a survey by the Japan Organization for Internal Migration, Gunma, about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, is favored for its connectivity and relative earthquake safety.
The Japan Organization for Internal Migration, also known as Join-Furusato, is a Tokyo-based group that supports rural relocation. Its annual ranking of attractive prefectures for relocation, released on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, is based on a survey of 27,242 people who visited the organization's relocation support center or attended its seminars from January to December 2025. Gunma Prefecture topped the list for the second year in a row, appealing across all age groups.
The survey highlights concerns over high living costs in urban areas as a key driver for relocation interest, alongside recommendations from artificial intelligence. Gunma, located roughly two hours' drive from Tokyo, stands out for its good connectivity and relative safety from earthquakes. This ranking underscores ongoing efforts to promote migration to rural areas, with the organization's activities helping to spotlight regional advantages.
