Japan village looks to young Peruvians to tackle ageing population

Updated: 23/10/2026 - 6:15 GMT+2

With only around 1,300 residents, the Japanese village of Nanmoku is struggling with an ageing population and shortages of workers in schools, public transport and care facilities.

Local officials hope a new partnership with Belén, a district in Peru's Amazon region, will encourage young Peruvians to move to Japan and help sustain the community. Two Peruvian students have visited the village and expressed interest in settling there, while officials say the initiative could benefit both communities.

However, how potential newcomers would obtain residency in Japan remains unclear.

Watch the video to find out more.