Message from the President

Japan is currently undergoing profound structural transformations, driven by domestic and global challenges. These include a rapidly declining population due to historically low birth rates and an aging society; the increasing impact of global climate change and natural disasters; and mounting concerns over energy security, food supply and geopolitical stability. Meanwhile, digital transformation continues to reshape our societies, with artificial intelligence technologies becoming deeply integrated into our work and daily lives. The accelerating pace and scope of these changes are expected to have a significant impact on the future of humanity.
In this context, the role of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) is more critical than ever; with its responsibility for ensuring the safety, security and well-being of the Japanese public, while fostering comfortable living environments and national prosperity through sustainable economic growth.


Established in 2001, the Policy Research Institute for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (PRILIT) serves as the in-house think tank for MLIT. Our mission is to support evidence-based policymaking by bridging academic knowledge and policy practice. With the 'accumulation of knowledge' and 'information exchange' through research and analysis, we contribute to the planning and development of effective policies in the areas of land, infrastructure, and transport.
Our research findings are not only made available to the Ministry, but also shared widely with the general public, through our research papers and other publications, our website, annual research workshops, and presentations at academic societies and partner institutions.


PRILIT is committed to conducting medium and long-term vision research that leverages our knowledge in domestic and international studies, to objectively assess and analyze evolving socio-economic trends, to inform future policy development and address current challenges.


The Institute actively welcomes collaboration with research institutions within the nation, and around the world. External experts are regularly invited through exchange programs with the private sector, as well as fixed-term guest researcher appointments.


We remain dedicated to delivering innovative and impactful research that informs policy development in the land and transport sectors.


On a final note, we sincerely appreciate your continued interest and support in our work.


July 2025
Yoneyama Shigeru
President
Policy Research Institute for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism