On October 29, 2025, Makigumi hosted the very first Akiya Gathering, a small and friendly event designed to connect foreigners who are curious about Japan’s akiya (vacant houses).
Held in a cozy renovated building in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka district, the event offered a space to casually talk, ask questions, and exchange ideas about what it means to buy and revitalize an akiya in Japan.

Akiya Gathering is especially intended for foreigners living in Japan or those considering moving here—who are interested in a more rooted, community-based way of living.
Even if you have no experience with real estate or renovation, and even if Japanese-language procedures feel intimidating, this event provides a safe and open space to learn, explore, and imagine what life in a renovated akiya could look like.
Many foreigners face similar challenges when approaching akiya:
・Information is scattered and difficult to understand
・Real estate terminology and legal processes can feel overwhelming
・It’s hard to know where to startor who to trust
・And it can be difficult to picture what daily life in a rural or traditional home might feel like

Akiya Gathering addresses these challenges not through formal lectures, but through conversation, shared experience, and real community stories.It offers a place to connect with others who are on a similar journey, ask questions freely, and see how living in an old Japanese home can open new ways of belonging.

This article shares a report on what happened at Akiya Gathering vol.1, which concluded with great success.

Why We Gathered: Exploring Akiya Together

The first Akiya Gathering was held at Roopt Kagurazaka, a renovated traditional home turned shared living space. It created a relaxed atmosphere where people could talk about what it means to find, buy, and live in an akiya in Japan.

Six participants joined the event. Some were already living in Japan, while others were considering moving in the future. What they shared was curiosity about new lifestyles and the possibility of making old houses part of their daily life.

We began with a short introduction to Japan’s akiya situation and Makigumi’s renovation projects. After that, the session shifted naturally into open conversation. Participants asked questions, exchanged personal experiences, and shared their own visions of how vacant homes could be transformed into meaningful living spaces.

Presentation and Exchange: Understanding Akiya Situation in Japan

During the session, the Makigumi team introduced the basic background of akiya in Japan.We talked about how many vacant houses exist, why they become vacant, and what challenges both owners and communities face.We also shared examples from our own renovation projects, including Roopt Kagurazaka, to show how old houses can be lived in again.

The conversation quickly opened up. Participants asked practical questions such as how to find an akiya, how to confirm ownership, and what renovation costs typically look like. Some compared Japan with their home countries.In several countries, old houses are seen as something to protect and pass down.Others shared that housing scarcity means vacant homes are rarely an issue back home.Hearing these perspectives side by side made it clear how unique Japan’s relationship with aging homes is.

Many participants were surprised by how quickly property values can decline in Japan, especially for traditional homes that still have character and potential.Through this exchange, we were able to look at akiya not only as a “problem” but also as an opportunity to rethink how we live, connect, and belong.

Discussion: Sharing Personal Visions for Akiya

In the second half of the gathering, each participant took time to sketch or write their own idea of how they would like to use an akiya. The ideas varied. Some imagined restoring a traditional house while keeping its original atmosphere. Others envisioned creating quiet spaces for reflection, art, or connection with nature. A few were interested in community-centered projects that could bring new life to rural areas.

What stood out was that many participants already had clear images of what they wanted. Some ideas felt practical enough to begin if the right house and environment were found. As conversations continued, participants shared perspectives, compared values, and inspired each other.

The discussion unfolded slowly and thoughtfully. By the time the session came to a close, it felt as though there was still much more to explore, and many participants expressed interest in continuing the dialogue beyond the event.

Reflections: A Glimpse into the Akiya Revitalization by Foreigners

This first gathering highlighted how much potential there is for foreigners to play a meaningful role in the future of akiya. The participants were not simply curious. They brought thoughtful perspectives and personal visions for how vacant houses could be lived in, restored, and connected to community life.

Through these conversations, akiya began to feel less like abandoned properties and more like places where new relationships, slower rhythms, and different forms of belonging can grow.

For Makigumi, it was a powerful reminder that akiya are not simply “empty properties,” but potential seeds of innovation.

Many participants expressed interest in continuing the conversation and exploring real steps, whether through local visits, property searches, or ongoing community gatherings.

Upcoming Akiya Gathering vol.2 and vol.3

Encouraged by the warm response to the first event, Makigumi will continue the conversation through upcoming gatherings!

🗓️ Vol.2 — Online (November 19, 2025)

Vol.3 — In-person (December 9, 2025)

Details coming soon!

Follow our updates on Instagram to stay connected, and join the next conversation to become part of the growing Akiya Gathering community!

Interested in Exploring Your Own Path?

If you would like to discuss your situation more personally
or want guidance on where to begin,
we are also offering one-on-one consultations through Akiyafor.

We can talk about:
・How to search for akiya
・What to consider before renovation
・How to connect with local communities
・What lifestyle might fit you best

To request a session, contact:　https://akiyafor.com/contact/