AlphaDrive Kochi: Revitalizing Shimizuya Ryokan with Successful Crowdfunding

Revitalizing Shimizuya Ryokan: A Community Hub Initiative

In a remarkable initiative to revitalize a historic inn, AlphaDrive Kochi, a subsidiary of AlphaDrive Co., Ltd., has successfully launched a crowdfunding campaign aiming to resurrect Shimizuya Ryokan, a long-established ryokan located in Tosashimizu, Kochi Prefecture. On March 28, they kicked off their campaign on the CAMPFIRE platform, and the total support has already surpassed ¥1.5 million, reaching 50% of their funding goal.

The ryokan, which faced closure due to a lack of successors, is set to reopen as “a place for people to connect” — a vision that embodies the essence of community and collaboration. Currently, renovations on the first floor and the installation of modern facilities are underway. The funds raised through the crowdfunding campaign are integral to laying the groundwork for this ambitious project.

The crowdfunding initiative is set to continue until May 28. AlphaDrive Kochi encourages the public to spread the word about this endeavor and participate in the various planned unique rewards, further enriching the Shimizuya Ryokan experience. "We appreciate the support we have received thus far, and we look forward to more people engaging with our project," said Ryuji Utsunomiya, president of AlphaDrive Kochi.

Unique Accommodation Rewards

For those interested in experiencing the new Shimizuya Ryokan, special discounted accommodation tickets are being offered exclusively through the crowdfunding platform:

- Priority Booking Ticket (¥4,000 off): This ticket allows early booking for an overnight stay (up to two guests) at the newly renovated ryokan, available after the pre-opening in August 2025. This includes a plan for room only, with the check-in at 3 PM and check-out at 10 AM.
- Priority Booking Ticket (¥2,000 off): Similar to the previous ticket, this option is valid for stays between the pre-opening in August 2025 and until August 2026.

Engaging Community Initiatives

The project seeks not only to restore the ryokan but to foster a space for communal interaction. To this end, various participatory and experiential rewards are available, such as:

- Online Talk Session: A special dialogue between AlphaDrive's CEO, Yoichi Aso, and the fourth-generation innkeeper, Madoka Kusunose, on July 27, focusing on the methods of business succession in local project development.
- Strategy Meetings: Meetings will be held in Kochi City to discuss ideas for services that would be beneficial for Shimizuya Ryokan, scheduled for June 13 and June 25 at their office in the vicinity.
- Historical Tour of the Ryokan: An exploration of the ryokan rich in 100 years of history, combined with discussions about the town’s future, set for June 1.

Expression of Gratitude

Madoka Kusunose, the fourth-generation owner, expresses heartfelt gratitude for the support. "Since launching our crowdfunding campaign, we've received overwhelming encouragement from many, allowing us to exceed our initial funding goal of ¥1.5 million. I'm genuinely thankful for everyone's support," she shared. Madoka emphasized that this revival project couldn't have materialized without collective efforts, and encourages everyone who hasn't yet visited the crowdfunding page to do so. "If you feel a connection to this initiative, consider supporting it. Every bit helps us achieve our vision of creating a warm intersection for people to meet."

As AlphaDrive Kochi moves forward with this project, they remain dedicated to transforming Shimizuya Ryokan into a cherished community hub.