“I Can’t Imagine Living Anywhere But Kameoka”: New Documentary Series on Relocation to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture

Minami Uematsu, who transitioned from the apparel industry to farming

Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture (Mayor: Takahiro Katsugawa) actively supports in-migration and settlement by diverse groups, including families with children. Amid a growing trend of people seeking a life centered around agriculture after relocating, the city has established a comprehensive support system for aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs with no prior experience. In conjunction with Entrepreneurship Day on June 27, the city has released a new installment of its documentary video series showcasing the authentic lives of residents who have relocated. This latest episode, available on the city’s official YouTube channel and other platforms, follows Minami Uematsu, who moved from central Kyoto and successfully launched a farming business with no prior background in agriculture. The documentary captures her daily life, highlighting the city’s agricultural contributions as “Kyoto’s kitchen,” and the warmth of its local community.

[Background and Purpose: Turning Aspirations into Sustainable Livelihoods]

Minami Uematsu harvesting carrots in a field (Kameoka City)

While interest in rural relocation and new-entry farming continues to grow, many face significant hurdles—such as how to acquire farming skills, secure farmland and housing, and integrate into local communities.

Kameoka City is committed not only to facilitating relocation but also to supporting self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship and farming. This documentary series aims to showcase diverse lifestyles by featuring real-life stories of people who have started farming businesses from scratch. By conveying the authentic atmosphere of rural life, the city hopes to inspire and support those aspiring to launch ventures in agriculture and rural communities.

[Program Details]

Minami Uematsu walking in front of “Sanga Stadium by KYOCERA”

This three-minute documentary closely follows Minami Uematsu, now in her fifth year of living in Kameoka, offering an intimate look at her work-life balance in the city.

Video Title: [Relocating to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture] From Fashion Retail to Farming: A Migrant’s Real-Life Experience of Life with Agriculture

Release Date: June 27, 2026 (Sat)

Runtime: 3 minutes

[Video Outline and Chapters]

Receiving fresh vegetables from a local resident

00:00 Opening

00:05 Moving to Kameoka: Background of a former apparel store employee from Kyoto City choosing a life in farming

01:16 Life with Agriculture: Harmony between nature and urban life, harvesting from a field in front of her home, and direct sales at local farmers’ markets

02:15 Life Ahead in Kameoka: Utilizing the city’s vacant house bank system and daily exchanges of produce with neighbors

Latest series video [Entrepreneurship and Relocation Edition] here

(Reference) Previous relocation videos here

[Key Highlights]

A compelling journey from the apparel industry to farming with no prior experience Minami Uematsu was inspired to live close to nature during a working holiday on a farm. Leveraging connections with experienced farmers in Kameoka City, she transitioned from complete beginner to a professional farmer cultivating carrots, spinach, and green onions.

Balancing urban convenience with natural harmony, supported by local government Kameoka offers both rich natural surroundings and convenient urban amenities. This unique blend of convenience and slow living has fostered deep attachment—now in her fifth year, Uematsu says, “I can’t imagine living anywhere else.” With support from the city’s vacant house bank program, she plans to integrate her home and business, with ongoing administrative support guiding her next steps.

[Comment from City Representative]

Minami Uematsu enjoying a lively meal with housemates at a shared residence

Planning and Coordination Section, Policy Planning Department, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture

Kameoka City has naturally cultivated a welcoming culture where long-time residents warmly embrace newcomers. This documentary aims to convey the genuine passion and fulfillment experienced by someone who, after five years, has truly come to appreciate the city’s unique qualities.

We will further strengthen collaboration with the Kameoka Organic Farming School, the vacant house bank, and entrepreneurship support offices. Our goal is to build a city where people say, “If you want to live a life centered around farming, go to Kameoka.”

[About Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture]

Aerial view of Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture

Located immediately west of Kyoto City, Kameoka is a “Tokainaka” (urban-rural blend) offering both excellent accessibility—just 20 minutes by express train from Kyoto Station—and abundant natural surroundings. In 2022, the city declared a “Child-First” policy, strongly supporting families with children, and has developed family-friendly facilities such as “Galleria Kameoka” and “KIRI no KO” (inside Sanga Stadium by KYOCERA).

Additionally, Sanga Stadium, opened in 2020, has become a vibrant hub for sports events and diverse community activities.

City Official Website

City Official Instagram

[Related Website]

https://www.city.kameoka.kyoto.jp/site/iju/

[Contact]

Planning and Coordination Section, Policy Planning Department, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture Contact: Takemura, Fujita TEL 0771-25-5006 E-mail: yume-vision@city.kameoka.lg.jp