Japanese village partners with Peruvian district to attract young residents

The small Japanese village of Nanmoku has formed a sister-city partnership with Belén, a district in Peru, to encourage young Peruvians to move to Japan. Euronews reported that the initiative aims to tackle an ageing population and labour shortages in the local community. [1]

Nanmoku currently has approximately 1,300 residents. According to Euronews, the village faces worker shortages across essential sectors, including public transport, schools, and care facilities. Local officials hope the new agreement with the Amazonian district will help sustain the village. [1]

In April 2025, the total population of Japan was roughly 123.4 million people. The national population previously peaked at 128.5 million in 2010. [2]

Two Peruvian students have already visited Nanmoku and expressed interest in settling there, Euronews reported. Officials noted that the initiative could benefit both places, although how potential newcomers will obtain residency in Japan remains unclear. [1]