Fifth Annual 'Plum Harvest Workation' Underway in Minabe, Wakayama: Japan's Top Plum-Producing Region | May 1 - July 9, 2026

The Japan Council for Well-being Promotion (PCW Japan, Representative Director: Yuka Shimada) is hosting its fifth annual 'Plum Harvest Workation' (commonly known as 'Ume-Work') in Minabe Town, Wakayama Prefecture, for 70 days from May 1 to July 9, 2026.

This project, which integrates human resource development, regional revitalization, and connections to the primary industry through an immersive 'True Workation' experience, enters its fifth year since its launch in 2022. Participants either work remotely or take time off while diving into the plum harvesting tasks in a nature-filled environment.

'Ume-Work' is part of the 'Primary Industry Workation®' program developed by PCW Japan. Minabe Town, the host region, boasts the highest plum production volume in Japan and is home to the 'Minabe-Tanabe Plum System,' designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) in 2015.

[What is 'True Workation'?] Returning to the etymological root of 'workation'—'Vacate'—this is PCW Japan's unique concept. It refers to a time where individuals empty their minds and hearts by immersing themselves in plum harvesting, allowing them to reconnect with themselves. By changing work locations and experiences, participants empty their crowded minds, reconnect with themselves, others, and the world, and rediscover their 'Purpose.' This core philosophy is at the heart of 'Ume-Work.'

[Entering the 5th Year] Started in June 2022 after Representative Director Yuka Shimada learned of the challenges faced by plum farmers in Minabe. In the first year, 240 participants helped at 11 farms over 30 days. In 2023, the program expanded to 70 days (May-July). Over four seasons, 1,260 participants have joined. In 2026, the program is operating with 17 participating farms.

[Major Awards and Achievements] - March 2024: Selected as an 'Excellent Case Study' by the Cabinet Office's 'Platform for Public-Private Partnership in Regional Revitalization SDGs.' - November 2024: Received the 'Minister of State for Regional Revitalization Award' at the 'Regional Revitalization Telework Award 2024.' - February 2026: Received the 'Tomorrow's Hope Award (Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Award)' at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' 'Furusato-zukuri Awards.'