A note from the Kumamoto International Demographics Desk (hey - where is everyone?): Kumanichi reports that the great migration from rural to urban areas in Kumamoto continues. Amakusa has been particularly affected, with Misumi losing over 20% of its population over the last decade. On the other hand, towns hosting industrial facilities such as Koshi have seen a slight increase. Coincidentally, a large, expensive mansion is noisily under construction across the street from my home in Chuo-Ku - people want to live in the city.
What happens to these depopulated areas and their remaining residents is cause of great concern. Most will likely be returned to nature. A suggestion for support is to shop local: visit your local greengrocer and buy Kumamoto produce. - William
