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February 28, 2026Geographical review of Japan series B0 citationsOpen Access

Amenity Migration of Working-age People to the New Vacation Home Area in Karuizawa Town and Surrounding Areas, Japan (English Translation)

SSSUZUKI Shuto

Key Points

  • The study aims to explore the characteristics and motivations behind amenity migration of working-age individuals to Karuizawa, Japan.
  • Analyzed values, lifestyles, and migratory behavior
  • Conducted surveys among working-age migrants in the Oiwake district
  • Utilized snowball sampling to identify participants
  • Evaluated commuting patterns and work preferences
  • Significant population growth observed in the Oiwake district
  • Migrants prioritized quality of life improvements related to natural amenities
  • Many opted for teleworking or commuted by Shinkansen
  • Improved lifestyle quality was reported post-migration due to favorable living conditions

Abstract

This study examined the characteristics of contemporary amenity migration by analyzing the relationship between the values, lifestyles, and migratory behavior of working-age migrants to the town of Karuizawa and the surrounding new vacation home area in Japan. Karuizawa has experienced an increase in the number of migrants from the Tokyo area since the opening of Karuizawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line. The population growth is particularly significant in the Oiwake district, a new vacation home area in the western part of the town. Working-age migrants to the Oiwake district were surveyed by the author through snowball sampling and were engaged in white-collar jobs, with some commuting by Shinkansen and some teleworking. They moved out of the Tokyo area due to doubts about the child-rearing and educational environment as well as their work and lifestyle preferences. They chose Karuizawa and the surrounding area as a destination due to convenient transport links and good living environment. They also chose the Oiwake district as their place of residence because of its attractive natural environment, proximity to schools and train stations, low land prices, and convenience of living. Their quality of life improved after migration to Karuizawa through the skillful utilization of the various amenities in Karuizawa and the surrounding area.

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Cite This Study

SUZUKI Shuto (2025) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69a285da0a974eb0d3c00c1ehttps://doi.org/10.4157/geogrevjapanb.98.216
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