In a deserted part of Fukushima Prefecture dotted with vacant lots, a sleek modern building stands out. In a workshop inside, a woman with a ponytail wearing purple protective eyeglasses carefully melts a tiny glass tube into the shape of a plum blossom.
Behind the atelier, young people peer at computer screens in an airy co-working space with a terraced seating area, plants and a hammock.
Odaka Pioneer Village in Minamisoma is run by a venture company whose novel programs are capturing attention for addressing a serious problem facing the communities near the stricken nuclear power plant: How to bring young residents back.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.