Kyoto property wins inaugural Akiya Utilization Award

A property in Ayabe City, Kyoto has been distinguished as the winner of the inaugural Akiya Utilization Award. The Akiya Utilization Corporation, bridging the gaps between akiya, or vacant property owners, communities, businesses, and local governments with its cloud service, has scheduled the announcement for its “Akiya Conference 2023.” The gathering comes on the cusp of revising the Akiya Special Measures Act, aiming to spotlight the vacant house dilemma and strategies for regional rejuvenation.

Known to many as Naniwa’s gourmet king, Tetsuji has been an active advocate for community initiatives. His endeavors span from establishing ramen eateries to pioneering sake production from rice, supported by a groundswell of crowdfunding enthusiasts. Additionally, experiential projects invite participants to delve into the craft of alcohol creation from rice.

Tetsuji’s pivotal acquisition in September 2020 — the Ayabe City property — has now come full circle. With avenues like crowdfunding, he transformed the once vacant space into an inviting hub for communal gatherings. In recognition of his efforts, May 2021 saw him named Ayabe City’s first-ever “Regional Exchange Ambassador.”

The initiative underscores the potential of vacant homes in rejuvenating communities, positioning them not as problems but as opportunities. This strategy, rooted in community collaboration, earned the property its award-winning status.