Key Facts
• Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki led Hiroshima for 16 years, stepping down on November 28, 2025.
• Hiroshima experienced the highest net population outflow in Japan for four consecutive years.
• In 2024, outflows exceeded inflows by 10,000 people, with young women leaving most.
• Key reasons for outflows: university enrollment, job opportunities, and urban migration.
• The governor emphasized promoting Hiroshima’s unique businesses and industries.
• Over 210 companies were attracted to Hiroshima in recent years to boost employment.
• Competition from Kansai universities has reduced inflows from nearby regions.
• Yuzaki highlighted the need for integrating manufacturing and digital industries.
• He warned against pessimism, citing the psychological impact of “self-fulfilling prophecies.”
• Yuzaki supported former deputy governor Mika Yokota, who became Hiroshima’s first female governor.
• Post-retirement, Yuzaki plans to continue political activities but remains undecided on specifics.
Summary
Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki, after 16 years in office, identified population decline as Hiroshima’s most pressing issue. The prefecture has faced the highest net outflow in Japan for four years, with young women leaving in significant numbers. Yuzaki attributed this to education, employment, and urban migration trends. Efforts to attract over 210 companies aimed to address job shortages, but competition from Kansai universities has also reduced inflows from nearby regions. Yuzaki stressed the importance of fostering Hiroshima’s unique industries and integrating manufacturing with digital technologies. He advocated for a positive approach to avoid the psychological effects of pessimism. Supporting Mika Yokota’s successful bid for governor, Yuzaki leaves office with plans to remain active in politics, though his future role is undecided.
