Kyoko Watanabe revitalizes rural Japan through abandoned houses

Kyoko Watanabe moved to Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, to assist with disaster relief after the 2011 earthquake. She has since established a company focused on revitalizing rural Japan through the creative use of abandoned houses, known as akiya. Interest in akiya is rising, driven by factors like a weak yen and increased tourism. Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs projects that abandoned properties could reach 4.7 million by 2030, highlighting a growing challenge for potential buyers. Watanabe aims to address the complexities of Japan's housing market, including fees and discrimination, which often deter foreign buyers. Her efforts focus on transforming akiya into spaces for new residents and volunteers in Ishinomaki.