Ikechan, a YouTuber known for her architecture-themed content and gravure modeling, has voluntarily resigned from her position on the regional revitalization team of Higashinaruse Village in Akita Prefecture as of the end of July 2025. The village announced on August 5 that she had stepped down mid-term, having submitted her resignation on July 31, citing “personal reasons.”
Born on September 20, 1997, Ikechan is a native of Akita Prefecture. In addition to her YouTube activities, she has worked as a gravure idol and ring girl. In December 2023, she passed the first-class architect exam and is currently working at an architectural firm while engaging in various creative pursuits. Her refreshing appearance and cheerful commentary have earned her popularity, although recent reports of an alleged affair and related controversies have stirred attention online.
Engagement in a Traditional House Renovation Project
Ikechan was appointed to the regional revitalization team in April 2024 and had extended her term for another year this past April. She split her time between the Tokyo metropolitan area and Akita, focusing on renovating vacant and traditional houses, promoting the village, and uncovering local tourism resources.
With her newly acquired architecture license, she expressed a strong desire to work on traditional house renovations. She launched a separate YouTube channel titled “Murabito Ikechan [Rural Migration]” to document her journey of moving into a countryside home. Through a dual-location lifestyle between Tokyo and Higashinaruse, she actively promoted the region’s charm.
Community Engagement and Support
Her involvement began when a local company in Higashinaruse asked her to serve as MC for a financial report meeting, recognizing her influence as a content creator. Despite the limited public transportation — with only one bus per day — she received warm support from the community, including transportation assistance from the local government.
Her activities went beyond typical tourism promotion, centering on hands-on renovation work and meaningful interactions with local residents. Through her YouTube channel, she shared candid insights into life in a depopulated rural area, helping urban audiences understand the realities and challenges of countryside living.
Background and Implications of Her Resignation
The village has cited “personal reasons” for her departure, but has not disclosed further details. However, speculation is spreading across media and social networks about a possible connection to the recent reports of infidelity and public controversy.
The regional revitalization team system is a national initiative by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications that sends urban professionals to rural areas to support local revitalization efforts, with an annual stipend of approximately ¥4 million (about $26,600 USD). Ikechan’s resignation is expected to impact Higashinaruse Village’s revitalization project.
A Possible Shift Toward Full-Time YouTuber Activities
With over 500,000 subscribers, Ikechan has built a successful channel focused on architecture and rural living. Her content, which blends professional expertise with personal experiences, has resonated with a wide audience.
Following her resignation from the regional revitalization team, she is likely to focus more on activities based in Tokyo. Balancing her job at the architectural firm with her YouTube career and other media appearances, she is expected to pursue a new phase in her career.
As a notable example of collaboration between local governments and influencers, her case may prompt renewed discussion on how municipalities can effectively work with creators to promote regional revitalization.
