This is our first Kominka, located in the town of Shirone, Niigata Prefecture. In this neighborhood, there are approximately 25 homes like this situated amidst the rice fields, creating a beautiful scenery all around. These homes are surrounded by rice fields, fruit orchards, and vegetable farms.
Japan Kominka Rescue
Our Mission: The purpose (Ikigai) of JKR is to save old abandoned farmhouses (Kominka) from neglect, deterioration, destruction and turn them into viable and sustainable entities.
Our Vision:
By rescuing Kominkas we can revitalize communities by breathing new life into a once thriving town and country of hard working farmers and merchants and their families. We want to honor the generations of owners who have kept the legacy alive and we will work to preserve these Kominka treasures and recognize the last generation with the respect and dignity they deserve.
What is Kominka?
Traditional Japanese farmhouses, also known as "Kominka," were built and used by farmers and other rural people in Japan. These houses are typically constructed of natural materials such as wood, bamboo, straw, and clay and are built to withstand the harsh climate and weather conditions of rural Japan.
Kominka houses come in a variety of styles that reflect Japan's various regions and cultural traditions. They are frequently distinguished by thatched or tiled roofs, sliding paper doors, and raised wooden floors. They are also functional, with features such as porches and alcoves that can be used for storage or as workspaces.
While Kominka houses were once common throughout rural Japan, many have been abandoned or demolished as social and economic conditions have changed. However, there is renewed interest in preserving these traditional structures, and efforts are underway to restore and adapt them for modern use. Some Kominka houses have even been converted into museums or cultural centers, providing visitors with an insight into Japan's rich rural heritage.
We pray that you will join us in saving a part of a vanishing heritage.
Own a Farmhouse in Rural Japan or Bring One Home
There is such an exploding intrest in owning a Kominka, that not only can you own a farmhouse in rual Japan, but you can take one home with you. Orginizations like the Kominka Collectve have simplyfied and refind the process of dismantaling the ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and setting it up again in a location of your choosing.
Revitalizing Kominka: A Journey of Heritage and Community
We are dedicated to preserving the cherished Kominka of Japan—historic farmhouses that tell the stories of hardworking farmers and merchants. Our mission is clear: to save these treasures from neglect and transform them into vibrant, sustainable spaces that honor their legacy.
I would like to thank Mieko Ikeda who made the following video for me without asking. It wonderfully illustrates our progress in cleaning and rebuilding this fantastic monument to a differnt time.
"Aloha again!"
"Here we are in the prefecture of Niigata and in particular the town of Shirone.
As you can see we are in the middle of rice country."
