Abstract
The purpose of this study is to search for the direction of the higher education decentralization policy in Japan. Therefore, the following is analyzed. It is concerned with higher education in the region, and the action of the local government that promotes a positive policy. There are three prefectures (Akita Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, and Tottori Prefecture) where the development of higher education was comparatively late. The public college was set up, and the higher education administration of the prefecture is carried out by governor's leadership and administrative reform in each prefecture. But, there are various forms. A private university is encouraged to set up and is provided with financial support. However, the degree of the participation of the local government is widespread and is strengthened for not only the public college but also the private university. It is easy for it to disturb the development of higher education. The realities of the local higher education policy under the decentralization reform show this.
