Airbnb partners with Kiko Mizuhara and Rola to transform vacant traditional homes in Japan

On June 3rd, Airbnb Japan announced the launch of the Akiya Design Project; an initiative aimed at restoring traditional vacant homes known as kominka and offering them as culturally rich accommodations.

The project is being carried out in partnership with the National Association for the Revitalization of Traditional Detached Houses (ZEN-REN), with creative direction from cultural icons Kiko Mizuhara and Rola.

From left: Kimihiro Kono, Secretary-General of the National Association for the Revitalization of Traditional Detached Houses; Brian Chesky, Airbnb Co-Founder and CEO; creative supervisors Kiko Mizuhara and Rola; Kyoto property host Yamanaka San; and Ibaraki property host Murata San.  From June 3rd press conference with photo courtesy of R.E. Port News.

With nearly nine million unoccupied homes across Japan - a number projected to rise in the coming years - the project seeks to address this growing issue by preserving architectural heritage and promoting regional revitalization through tourism.

Airbnb hopes to give new life to these properties by turning them into unique stays that highlight Japan’s cultural and historical legacy.

Kiko Mizuhara is overseeing the transformation of a 150-year-old kominka in Koga, Ibaraki Prefecture. Once a samurai residence, the property spans approximately 10 hectares and features traditional architecture, seasonal cherry blossoms, and expansive bamboo groves.

Photo courtesy of Kiko Mizuhara’s Instagram post announcing AirBnB collaboration. 

“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, enhancing the charm of Yamanaka-san’s listing in Koga, and helping travelers discover unknown aspects of Japan.” Kiko Mizuhara, from AirBnB Japan press release. 

Mizuhara San’s project is a 150-year-old kominka sprawling over approximately 10 hectares, featuring a classic main house, grand gate, and seasonal cherry blossoms and wildflowers that evoke a timeless Japanese landscape.

Originally restored and preserved by local host Midoki Yamanaka, the property was deemed a "regional asset" worthy of intergenerational stewardship.

Meanwhile, Rola is collaborating on the renovation of a 70-year-old home in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, formerly used as a tile-making workshop by her host’s family for generations.

Photo courtesy of AirBnB Japan press release.

“Reviving kominka, which embody the wisdom and aesthetics of Japan's past, in a way that suits the present era is a wonderful initiative. I deeply resonate with it. Spending time in thoughtfully styled spaces that respect culture and nature is truly invaluable. I’m excited to coordinate the interior design at Murata-san’s house in Kyoto‑Kameoka, so guests can fully appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese homes.” - Rola, from AirBnB Japan press release.

Rola’s property is a 70-year-old residence that once served as a family-run tile manufacturing workshop through four generations during the Meiji to Heisei eras. The home has been maintained to reflect its industrial heritage, with traditional architecture and serene countryside views.  The property is currently operated by host Mami Murata.

Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky was quoted as saying “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 around the world.”

The two redesigned homes are expected to open for bookings on Airbnb in autumn 2025.

Sources:

R.E. Port News (Japanese only)

AirBnB Japan Press Release (Japanese only)