Akiya Gathering vol.3
An event for foreigners to learn about and discuss Japan’s vacant houses @ Nihonbashi-Kodemmacho, Tokyo
Event Overview
Curious about Japan’s akiya (vacant houses) but not sure where to start?
Akiya Gathering vol.3 is an in-person event where foreigners can casually learn and discuss how vacant houses in Japan can be found, renovated, and reused.
Makigumi Inc., a social enterprise based in Ishinomaki (Miyagi, Tohoku), has been actively transforming akiya into guesthouses, shared houses, and community spaces. At this event, Makigumi will share real examples and practical insights gained through hands-on projects across Japan.
Whether you are simply curious, exploring new lifestyle options, or considering purchasing property in Japan, everyone interested in akiya is welcome.
The session is designed to be interactive and approachable, encouraging open conversation rather than formal lectures.
You can also read the report from a previous event here:
▶ Previous Event Report
Date & Time
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 19:00–21:00
(Doors open at 19:00 / Event starts at 19:15)
Admission
1,000 JPY (includes one drink)
Capacity
Approximately 15 participants
How to Apply
Please complete your registration via the event page.
Who Should Join
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Foreigners interested in Japan’s vacant houses (akiya)
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Those considering buying property in Japan
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People interested in community-based living and creative reuse
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Anyone curious about running guesthouses in Japan
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People interested in rural Japan, Tohoku, or Ishinomaki
Speaker
Kyoko Watanabe – CEO, Makigumi Inc.
While studying in graduate school, Kyoko experienced the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and began on-site support activities in Ishinomaki. She later relocated permanently and founded Makigumi Inc. in 2015, transforming vacant houses into shared homes and community hubs.
Her work focuses on revitalizing Ishinomaki’s city center and creating new systems for utilizing aging local real estate. She is also a board member of ISHINOMAKI2.0, a former lecturer at Tohoku University of Art & Design (2016–2019), and a recipient of the City Planning Institute of Japan’s Planning and Design Award for the “COMICHI Ishinomaki” project.
In 2019, she won the Grand Prize at the DBJ Women’s New Business Plan Competition.
Organizer
Makigumi Inc.
Founded in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, Makigumi revitalizes old and low-value vacant houses by renovating them into guesthouses, shared houses, and community spaces. Beyond renovation, Makigumi supports local communities and sustainable regional living.
▶Website:
Co-Organizer
S-TOKYO
S-TOKYO is a small “micro-complex” in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, combining a coworking space, café, and gallery. It serves as a community where regional companies, startups, creators, and creative nomads from around the world connect and collaborate.
▶Website