Airbnb Launches “Akiya Design Project” to Revitalize Japan’s Historic Kominka Homes
Airbnb Japan has announced an inspiring new initiative—the Akiya Design Project—aimed at breathing new life into Japan’s traditional, vacant homes known as kominka. In collaboration with the National Association for the Revitalization of Traditional Detached Houses (ZEN-REN), this project seeks to restore these culturally significant properties and repurpose them as unique accommodation experiences for global travelers.
Leading the creative direction are two of Japan’s most recognizable cultural figures: Kiko Mizuhara and Rola. Their involvement reflects a broader shift in Japan’s approach to regional revitalization—where heritage, design, and tourism intersect to create new economic and cultural value.
With nearly 9 million unoccupied homes across Japan and more predicted to emerge due to population decline, the project represents a practical and symbolic response to one of the country’s most pressing real estate issues. By turning akiya into beautifully designed stays that celebrate local craftsmanship, the Akiya Design Project hopes to spark new interest in rural Japan.
Kiko Mizuhara’s Project: A Samurai Residence in Ibaraki
Model and designer Kiko Mizuhara is overseeing the redesign of a 150-year-old kominka in Koga, Ibaraki Prefecture—once the residence of a samurai. The property spans 10 hectares and features a classic main house, a grand gate, cherry blossoms, wildflowers, and expansive bamboo groves. Originally restored by local host Midoki Yamanaka, the home has been recognized as a regional cultural asset.
Mizuhara shared, “While creating something entirely new is wonderful, I want to breathe fresh life into what already exists—familiar but undiscovered. I look forward to applying my style and design to traditional Japanese architecture and helping travelers discover unknown aspects of Japan.”
Rola’s Project: A Kyoto Workshop with a Creative Legacy
In Kyoto Prefecture’s Kameoka, TV personality and model Rola is lending her creative vision to a 70-year-old home that once functioned as a family tile-making workshop across four generations. Preserved and hosted by Mami Murata, the property combines traditional design with the tranquility of the Japanese countryside.
“Reviving kominka, which embody the wisdom and aesthetics of Japan's past, in a way that suits the present era is a wonderful initiative,” said Rola. “Spending time in thoughtfully styled spaces that respect culture and nature is truly invaluable.”
A Vision for the Future of Rural Japan
Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky emphasized the broader goals of the initiative: “As demand grows among international and domestic travelers for authentic cultural stays, we are proud to support revitalization of vacant homes through the Akiya Design Project. By restoring historic kominka and adding new creative appeal, we hope to protect Japan’s rich cultural heritage and introduce these remarkable homes to a new generation of travelers.”
The restored homes are scheduled to open for bookings in autumn 2025, offering travelers a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Japan’s architectural and cultural history—reimagined for the modern era.
Sources: R.E. Port News (Japanese only) & AirBnB Japan Press Release (Japanese only)
