Creating a 'Sense of Belonging' to Attract the World: Chiang Mai Community Founder to Speak in Kotohira on June 10

As depopulation continues in rural Japan, a new approach focusing on community design is being explored. John Ho, founder of the co-living community 'Alt_' in Chiang Mai, Thailand—which attracts digital nomads and entrepreneurs from around the globe—will visit Kotohira, Kagawa. On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, he will lead a talk event titled 'Chiang Mai Night in Kotohira' at kotori coworking & hostel. Admission is free.

### Background: Solving the 'Lack of Visitors' with Community Design
Chiang Mai has become a global hub for nomads not just for its cost of living, but because of its community design that makes people feel they belong. John Ho's 'Alt_' has over 1,000 members from 40 countries. This sense of belonging drives long-term stays and repeat visits.

### Kotohira's Vision: Becoming a Mecca for Digital Nomads
Managed by Kotohira Bus Co., Ltd., 'kotori coworking & hostel' has hosted 1,249 guests from 47 countries since its opening. While they aim to make Kotohira a digital nomad sanctuary, the organizers acknowledge their community is still evolving. They seek to learn from John Ho's proven success in Chiang Mai.

### Program Schedule (June 10, 2026)
- 19:00: Opening
- 19:05: Talk by John Ho: 'How to Create a Place Where the World Gathers'
- 19:25: Cross-talk: 'Why Chiang Mai and Kotohira Met'
- 19:55: Q&A Session
- 20:10: Introduction of Chiang Mai Visit (Planned for Jan 2027)
- 20:20: Thai Food & Networking Time (with Thai music/visuals)
- 20:55: Group Photo & Closing

### Future Outlook
Following this event, kotori coworking & hostel plans to deepen its partnership with Alt_. A visit to Chiang Mai is planned for around January 2027, creating continuous opportunities to connect Kotohira with the global community.