#Community Development #Hoshinomachi #Minna no Machidukuri

Revitalizing Communities: The Success of Hoshinomachi Housing Complex

In a remarkable achievement, the Hoshinomachi Housing Complex, located in the Usuda district of Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, has been awarded the prestigious Excellent Award for Community Revitalization at the 3rd Real Estate Industry Award for Co-Creating Local Value. This award, organized by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, celebrates initiatives that effectively tackle regional and social issues through innovative real estate strategies.

Hoshinomachi is the brainchild of Minna no Machidukuri Co., Ltd., a forward-thinking organization based in Shibuya, Tokyo, led by CEO Yohei Ito. The housing complex embodies a model for revitalization by collaborating with local governments and community businesses to repurpose underutilized municipal housing into attractive residences for new migrants.

One of the key aspects of Hoshinomachi’s success is its comprehensive approach to addressing the obstacles faced by prospective residents. By transforming a once-neglected public housing project into a thriving community, Hoshinomachi has filled units without relying on municipal subsidies, successfully housing 77 individuals to date, with an impressive retention rate of 89.4% for newcomers choosing to stay in Saku City.

Key Features of Hoshinomachi

The complex stands out not only for its architectural durability and strategic location but also for its holistic approach to fostering a supportive community. Key initiatives include:

• - Co-Working Spaces: Encouraging remote work and collaboration among residents.
• - Car Sharing Services: Providing convenient transportation options for newcomers who may not own vehicles.
• - Ongoing Support: Dedicated staff and regular consultation meetings help alleviate the uncertainties migrants face, ensuring they feel welcomed and included in their new community.
• - Communication Channels: Utilizing platforms like LINE to facilitate connections and ongoing discussions among residents, promoting a sense of belonging and mutual assistance.

The transformation of Hoshinomachi also emphasizes not just physical relocation but also the creation of a vibrant community where everyone can contribute and thrive based on their unique strengths and passions.

Community-Centric Vision

The guiding philosophy of Hoshinomachi is that everyone should have the opportunity to work in alignment with their passions, which the community refers to as becoming a