Japan: The Sustainable Development of a Small Peninsula: The Case of Irago Triathlon

The problems caused by Japan’s declining birthrate, aging population, and depopulation are more severe in the tip of the peninsular regions than in the Tokyo metropolitan area. This chapter examines the case of Irago—a place rich in nature and beautiful landscapes, with several tourist attractions—that is not well known even within Japan. We investigate the Irago triathlon, which is hosted to promote regional development, through interviews and a survey of the literature. The results of the study show that the town hall, which changed its negative stance to host the event, asked local high school students to volunteer, and successfully encouraged the involvement of the local youth, future leaders of the community. The study also found that the NPO entrusted with organizing the event was creative in developing a family-like atmosphere around the event, which athletes regard highly in comparison with other triathlons. In addition, a comparative analysis with the Tokyo and Lake Biwa triathlons revealed the need not just for financial support from the national and prefectural governments for environmental conservation and securing human resources but also for tangible regional development.