A one-of-a-kind stay blending architecture, sustainability, and community, the Yoshino Cedar House was designed by Go Hasegawa in collaboration with Airbnb and local craftsmen. Made from locally sourced cedar, the house operates on a community-driven model where 97% of the income supports local preservation efforts. The second floor serves as guest accommodations, while the first floor is a communal space where travelers can connect with locals.
📍 Location: Yoshino, Nara
🏡 Type: Community guesthouse
🔗 Reference: Airbnb
Designed by architect Jun Kanna, this wooden villa stands out in Okinawa, where most homes are built with concrete. It offers 360-degree openings that let in sunlight and fresh breezes, creating a bright and airy space. Guests can enjoy a BBQ in the private garden and easily access Okinawa’s top attractions, including Churaumi Aquarium and Kouri Island.
📍 Location: Motobu, Okinawa
🏡 Type: Private villa
🔗 Reference: Airbnb
This over 100-year-old house in Koedo Kawagoe was once a fertilizer wholesaler and later used only during the Kawagoe Festival. After extensive renovations, it became a guesthouse where visitors can interact with the local community. The on-site café lounge transforms into a bar at night, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Location: Kawagoe, Saitama
🏡 Type: Traditional guesthouse
🔗 Reference: Airbnb
Located in the lush Yanbaru Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this eco-conscious treehouse was built over eight years with a focus on sustainability. It runs on solar power, uses well water, and features composting toilets. Despite its off-grid nature, guests can enjoy modern comforts like bonfire dinners, saunas, and guided adventure tours.
📍 Location: Yanbaru, Okinawa
🏡 Type: Treehouse
🔗 Reference: Airbnb
Tucked away in Minamiizu within a national park, this sleek modernist villa offers breathtaking ocean views and a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The floor-to-ceiling glass façade floods the space with natural light, creating a serene and stylish retreat.
📍 Location: Minamiizu, Shizuoka
🏡 Type: Private villa
🔗 Reference: Airbnb
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