Kamiyama Town: A Rural Creative City Born from Artist-in-Residence Programs

Kamiyama Town: A Depopulated Mountain Village Transformed into a Creative City

Kamiyama Town, Nishi-Awa District, Tokushima Prefecture, is a small mountain village with a population of approximately 5,000, but has become a nationally noted creative region through "Artist-in-Residence (AIR)" and "Work-in-Residence" programs that began in the 2000s.

Artist-in-Residence

The "Kamiyama Artist in Residence" where artists from around the world stay in Kamiyama Town annually, interacting with local residents while creating works, has continued since 1999. Works from each year are scattered throughout the town, allowing art works to be toured while walking through the village.

IT Company Satellite Offices

Against the backdrop of high-speed fiber optic network development, a movement of urban IT companies establishing satellite offices in Kamiyama Town has spread. Stylish office spaces utilizing old farmhouses have been created, with young migrants also increasing. It has become a leading example of regional revitalization as the "Kamiyama Model."

Sudachi Village and Agricultural Experiences

In Kamiyama Town, also one of Japan's leading sudachi production areas, sudachi harvest experiences and agricultural experiences at farmhouse accommodations are possible. The region's nature and food culture can be experienced.

Access

Approximately 40 minutes by car from Tokushima city. Buses are also available but infrequent.