Akiya Collective - Transforming vacant Japanese homes
Akiya Collective
Transforming Japan's vacant akiya homes. Creating residencies and community spaces for human flourishing.
About Akiya Collective
Akiya Collective transforms abandoned rural Japanese houses (akiya) into creative residencies and community hubs. Addressing Japan's vacant home crisis, they acquire and renovate properties to foster art, communal living, and innovation.
Since acquiring its first property in Komoro, Nagano in 2024, the collective has grown to steward multiple homes and support community-purchased satellite properties, blending international creatives with local residents.
Who it's for
Posts
Timeline
Founding & Early Exploration
Crowdfunded the community and explored 100+ akiya sites while hosting 3 pilot residencies before nonprofit incorporation.
First Property Acquisition
Purchased the first akiya in Komoro, Nagano.
Makerspace Growth
Expanded the makerspace and established 10 total properties by facilitating member purchases of 3 new akiya.
Public Launch
Opened the community space to host 50 residents across 15 events and workshops.
Artistic Installations
Created the immersive liminal kimonos installation using sourced materials for Burning Japan.
