Gender Inequality and Rural Depopulation in Japan
Akita Prefecture in Japan is experiencing a significant decline in population, with the country's most aged population, lowest birthrate, and fastest declining population.
Rigid gender roles are contributing to this issue, as young women are leaving rural areas to seek opportunities elsewhere.
This trend is part of a global phenomenon, where people are making different decisions about their lives, resulting in fewer children.
NPR's series Population Shift: How Smaller Families Are Changing the World explores the causes and implications of this trend.
Akita Prefecture's Unique Culture
Akita Prefecture is home to a centuries-old tradition called kanto, a display of strength, skill, and culture, where young men balance heavy bamboo poles with candlelit paper lanterns.
Traditionally, only men are allowed to touch the poles, highlighting the rigid gender roles in the region.
Author's summary: Japan's rural depopulation is accelerated by gender inequality.
- Akita Prefecture has the most aged population in Japan.
- The region has the lowest birthrate and fastest declining population.
- Young women are leaving rural areas due to rigid gender roles.
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