Beyond Hotels: How Travelers Are Becoming Co-Owners of Japan’s Heritage Properties
Images are provided by PlanetDAO
In an era where authentic travel experiences are increasingly sought after, a unique movement is taking shape in Japan. As local cultural treasures face the pressures of urbanization and aging communities, a global initiative called PlanetDAO is creating bridges between international travelers and Japan’s cultural heritage.
“What we’re seeing in Japan is not just the loss of buildings, but the disappearance of entire cultural ecosystems,” explains Tamaki Nishimura, Founder & CEO of Planet Labs. “Our vision is to bring together global individuals who serve people and culture in local places. We transform neglected spaces into preserved and profitable assets, creating a sustainable future for these irreplaceable treasures.”
“I hope to see the temple, where people in the area come together in prayer, preserved for future generations—before my eyes turn all white,” shares an elderly resident of Wakayama. Such heartfelt local wishes are finding support from unexpected quarters—travelers and culture enthusiasts from around the world.
Temple’s New Chapter
A historic 170-year-old temple exemplifies this vision in action. While the name of the temple cannot be disclosed while it undergoes an ownership transition, it continues to evolve through community-driven efforts. “It is becoming difficult for the parishioners and local people alone to sustain the temple,” shares the Chief Priest Monk. “So new initiatives are now needed to pass on the history and traditions to the next generation. Operating a temple lodging without a resident priest is very rare and a new initiative.”
Today, the temple thrives with the support of 134 co-owners from various countries. “I fell in love with the traditional Japanese scenery and have now moved to Kochi, living in an old house myself. From tourism to migration, there is untapped potential in the region,” shares Daniel, who joined the project from overseas. Another co-owner adds, “The purpose to renovate and bring new life to historical places around Japan had me intrigued and I wanted to be a part of it.”
As of February 2025, the project is reaching another milestone as the community reviews architectural proposals for the temple’s renovation. Co-owners will participate in selecting the final design, demonstrating how global community ownership can actively contribute to preservation decisions.
How It Works
Unlike traditional property ownership, this model creates a community of co-owners who share both the responsibilities and benefits of preservation. The business model is straightforward: funds raised from co-owners are used to transform unused historical properties into unique accommodation facilities. Each property operates in distinct phases: from initial sourcing and community relationship building, through fundraising and renovation, to operational management as a vacation rental. Each property is managed by its own incorporated company, with local teams handling day-to-day operations. Professional support from one of Japan’s largest law firms ensures compliance, while collaboration with the government helps shape the future of cultural preservation.
“What makes this work is the genuine commitment from everyone involved,” explains Nishimura. “From local communities to international supporters, each person brings their unique perspective to this shared mission.”
Be Part of the Story
These properties are just the beginning of a growing movement to preserve Japan’s cultural heritage through global community ownership. The initiative is now launching its second project—the Bamboo Forest House in Hayama, Kanagawa, offering another opportunity to be part of this cultural preservation movement.
To learn more about these unique properties and how you can participate, visit PlanetDAO’s website.