Mr.Hitoshi Aida （JR East Hachioji Branch） 2024.05.10

“I’d rather have 100 people learn this region’s value and return 100 times, than 10,000 people visiting only once.”

When I worked in train station retail, I watched outdated products and business models gradually disappear. “Sad but inevitable,” I decided, putting it aside. But when I joined regional development, that old sadness resurfaced. What if it were regions disappearing? I couldn’t accept that as “inevitable.” As a company managing Japan’s major infrastructure, I knew we needed more direct regional engagement.
I genuinely believe in this project’s potential to change Japan. Good, strong connections between the city and remote villages create local employment and sustainable cycles. It’s my dream to expand this regional revitalization model nationwide.