Why We Started Akiyafor

Akiyafor was created to tackle Japan’s growing
vacant home crisis and offer a unique
opportunity for those who love Japan.

In 2023, over 9 million akiya (vacant homes)
were recorded—an unprecedented figure. We
regularly hear from many homeowners who are
eager to give away their properties, sometimes
for free.This is happening in Japan due to
challenges like population decline, urban
migration, inheritance complications, and a
cultural preference for new homes.

Although akiya in Japan may be affordable, each
property comes with its own unique set of
challenges. Having the know-how to manage
and maintain them while considering the local
community is crucial.

As Japan continues to captivate international
travelers, more people are seeking authentic
ways to experience the country. Akiyafor
connects these individuals with suitable
properties, helping them realize their dream
home while revitalizing rural communities
together.

Whether you’re looking for a second home, a
vacation rental, or a creative space, Akiyafor
makes it easy to turn Japan’s hidden gems into
your next adventure.

Why We Started Akiyafor

Akiyafor was created to tackle Japan’s growing
vacant home crisis and offer a unique
opportunity for those who love Japan.

In 2023, over 9 million akiya (vacant homes)
were recorded—an unprecedented figure. We
regularly hear from many homeowners who are
eager to give away their properties, sometimes
for free.This is happening in Japan due to
challenges like population decline, urban
migration, inheritance complications, and a
cultural preference for new homes.

Although akiya in Japan may be affordable, each
property comes with its own unique set of
challenges. Having the know-how to manage
and maintain them while considering the local
community is crucial.

As Japan continues to captivate international
travelers, more people are seeking authentic
ways to experience the country. Akiyafor
connects these individuals with suitable
properties, helping them realize their dream
home while revitalizing rural communities
together.

Whether you’re looking for a second home, a
vacation rental, or a creative space, Akiyafor
makes it easy to turn Japan’s hidden gems into
your next adventure.

About the Managing Company

Akiyafor is operated by Makigumi Inc., a real estate
company that specializes in the renovation and
activation of low-value vacant homes. Based in
Ishinomaki, Miyagi, our team of licensed real estate
agents, architects, and design experts has a proven track
record in managing rental properties, enhancing the
value of older homes, and even converting them to
vacation rentals.

Our Achievements:

– Successfully managed over 30 different akiya
rental properties (including ones we own)
– Supported the operation of over 10
guesthouses that were previously akiya
– Renovated over 50 different akiya properties

Our Qualifications

Makigumi holds two official licenses: a Real
Estate Transaction License (宅地建物取引業免
許) from the Miyagi Prefecture Governor,
allowing us to operate as a real estate agent
nationwide, and a Residential Accommodation
Management License (住宅宿泊管理業) from
the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport
and Tourism, enabling us to manage vacation
rentals for property owners.

Our Mission

Makigumi’s mission is to transform akiya into creative spaces that revitalize properties and their
surrounding communities. We specialize in renovating low-value, nearly unsellable homes,
breathing new life into them while fostering connections among residents. By creating inviting
environments, we empower creative individuals to build new businesses and lead fulfilling lives,
ultimately contributing to the future of local economies.

About Company

Company Name

makigumi, Inc.

Date of Establishment

March 2015

Address

Kankeimaru Bldg. 2F, Chuo 2-3-14, Ishinomaki, Miyagi, Japan 986-0822

Company Website

Roopt Sharehouse Website

Licenses and Registration Info

宅地建物取引業免許 宮城県知事(1)第6907号
住宅宿泊管理業 国土交通大臣(01)第F02088号

About the Founder: Kyoko Watanabe

In 2011, while pursuing graduate studies, Kyoko
Watanabe relocated to Ishinomaki to support
recovery efforts after the Great East Japan
Earthquake. She initiated a project to renovate
damaged vacant homes for young newcomers to
use and, in March 2015, established Makigumi
to promote the liquidity of local real estate.

Kyoko received the Planning and Design Award
from the Japan Planning Association in 2016 for
her work on the COMICHI Ishinomaki project
and the Female Entrepreneur Award at the 7th
DBJ Women’s New Business Plan Competition
in 2019.

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