Ōizumi Industrial Town

Ōizumi in Gunma Prefecture is a unique industrial town renowned for its high concentration of manufacturing facilities and its remarkable demographic diversity. The town's economic foundation is built upon large production bases of global corporations such as Subaru and Panasonic (formerly Sanyo), which manufacture automobile parts and household appliances there. A distinctive feature of Ōizumi is the exceptionally high percentage of foreign residents, particularly Brazilian citizens of Japanese descent, who have been recruited since the 1990s to support the local industrial workforce. This has resulted in a multicultural atmosphere where Portuguese signage and Brazilian supermarkets are common sights in the cityscape. Economically, Ōizumi serves as a vital engine for the northern Kantō region's industry, contributing significantly to regional value-added production. The local government actively promotes the integration of its international community, making Ōizumi a model for a modern, multicultural Japan. The close intertwining of global industry and local diversity has become the region's hallmark. In addition to heavy manufacturing, numerous subcontracting businesses form a dense economic network. Ōizumi impressively demonstrates how Japanese industry adapts to demographic shifts and explores new avenues for collaboration.

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A vibrant coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, famous for its grand Tanabata Festival and the expansive Shonan coastline.

Chigasaki

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History & landmarks

Nikko

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for lavishly decorated shrines and the beautiful Nikko National Park.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

A towering complex in Shinjuku that serves as Tokyo's city hall.

Tokyo Imperial Palace

The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan.

Rainbow Bridge

A massive suspension bridge crossing Tokyo Bay, connecting Shibaura Pier to the man-made island of Odaiba.

Nature

Lake Chūzenji

A scenic lake in Nikkō National Park, created by the eruption of Mount Nantai.

More places

Mount Asama

One of the most active volcanoes in Honshū.

Nikkō National Park

A national park famous for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.

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A whimsical museum dedicated to the work of the animation studio Studio Ghibli.

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An indoor theme park dedicated to Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Gudetama.

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One of Tokyo's largest parks, known for its wide lawns, ponds, and forested areas.

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A large public park in Tokyo, home to several museums, a shrine, and Japan's oldest zoo.

Mori Art Museum

A contemporary art museum located on the top floors of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower.