#Japan #Tokyo #community revitalization #LIFULL #Sato Nova

Introducing the Vacant House Utilization Course

In response to the growing challenge of vacant houses across Japan, LIFULL, a leading company in real estate solutions, has announced a collaboration with Sato Nova University to launch a new practical course focused on utilizing these properties effectively. Beginning in April 2026, this course aims to empower community players, particularly those in the regional revitalization cooperative team, by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to initiate vacant house projects in their own communities.

Context of the Program

With the continuous rise in vacant houses, the program recognizes the pressing need for skilled individuals who can effectively mobilize these properties as valuable community resources. While community players, such as the regional revitalization cooperative team, are expected to take central roles in fostering these initiatives, they often lack access to practical support, specialized knowledge, and business model development opportunities. This course was created to bridge this gap, providing comprehensive training and partnerships aimed at transforming vacant houses into community assets.

The partnership between LIFULL and Sato Nova University combines their unique strengths. Sato Nova focuses on educational advancement and community building, while LIFULL brings extensive expertise in real estate and data from its operations of LIFULL HOME'S Vacant House Bank. Using these resources, the program will cultivate professionals who can establish sustainable models for utilizing vacant properties.

Program Structure

The course is designed as an optional extension of the Sato Nova University My Field Course. It will provide systematic online lectures combined with hands-on fieldwork that revolves around the theme of utilizing vacant houses. The structure includes the following elements:

1. Interactive Foundation of Dialogue Lectures and Support (3 days a week)
- In this phase, participants will engage deeply with the question of "why they are involved in these initiatives." They will learn to connect theory with practice, laying the groundwork for their activities in their respective regions.

2. Special Guest Lectures on Vacant House Utilization (8 annual sessions)
- These guest lectures will offer insights into specific techniques and case studies from across the country regarding vacant house initiatives, providing students with hints to drive their own local projects forward.

3. Practical Fieldwork
- Taking place in the active Nasu area, this fieldwork component encourages participants to translate their online learning into practical action. Supported initiatives will be carried out in cooperation with Nasu City and Nasu Town.

Program Examples

Participants will engage in a variety of activities, including:

• - DIY experiences
• - Community engagement meetings
• - Visits to properties targeted for vacant house utilization
• - Networking sessions with regional players and revitalization team members
• - Workshops designed to connect to viable projects

Course Information

• - Title: Sato Nova University My Field Course - Vacant House Utilization Optional Course
• - Course Duration: First Term: April to July 2026; Second Term: October 2026 to January 2027 (Full year enrollment available)
• - Capacity: 20 participants (minimum 5 for course to proceed)
• - Fee: First Term: ¥305,000 (tax included); Full Year: ¥560,000 (tax included)

- This amount combines the costs of the My Field Course and the optional vacant house utilization course. Fieldwork may incur additional expenses.

• - Application Deadline: First Term: March 20, 2026; Second Term: August 28, 2026
• - More information and applications: Sato Nova University

About Sato Nova University

Sato Nova University is a progressive learning institution where students live within four regions of Japan for one year, engaging with local people to work on self-devised projects while also participating in online studies with leading experts and peers. Envisioned to cultivate individuals who can actively contribute to society and build futures with collaboration and commitment, Sato Nova began as a civic college in 2019.

About LIFULL Inc.

Founded with the motto, “Making every life full,” LIFULL is a social enterprise that aims to solve societal challenges through business and innovation. As a part of its various initiatives, LIFULL employs comprehensive data from its real estate services, including LIFULL HOME'S and LIFULL Care, ensuring sustainable practices for future developments.