In an attempt to reverse population decline in the regions, Japan’s government is offering 1 million yen ($7,500) per child to families who move out of greater Tokyo.
Fewer people are being born, and younger people are moving to Tokyo and other metropolitan cities like Osaka, leaving the smaller parts of the country in turmoil. Small businesses and shops in smaller towns have difficulty finding customers and workers.
According to reports, the number of empty homes in Japan, which are unclaimed by heirs, will reach 10 million in 2023. On the other hand, property rates in Tokyo are skyrocketing.
The scheme has struggled to capture the public imagination since it was launched three years go, with support provided to 2,400 families in 2021.