co-own century-old architectural gem in japan with kessaku yakage

kessaku offers a share of japans’s cultural legacy

Kessaku, a co-inheritance platform dedicated to the preservation of architecture with historical, cultural, and artistic value, unveils its first property, ‘Kessaku YAKAGE,’ a 100-year-old residence in Yakage Town, Okayama Prefecture. This co-inheritance model offers multiple individuals the opportunity to own a share of Japan’s cultural legacy, enabling participants to preserve architectural gems while enjoying them as second homes. Historical buildings possess a distinct value that newly constructed structures often lack. This value, shaped over time, is increasingly recognized in today’s world, overflowing with luxury.

Kessaku presents its first property, ‘Kessaku YAKAGE’ | all images courtesy of Kessaku

preserving architectural heritage through co-inheritance

Kessaku was founded with a mission to preserve Japan’s rapidly disappearing architectural heritage. With over 200 cultural properties demolished since 2015, the company’s unique business model provides a solution to the high costs and labor associated with maintaining historic buildings. Guided by three key principles — re-creating buildings with respect to their original character, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and establishing a sustainable system for co-inheritance — Kessaku aims to ensure that architectural treasures can be enjoyed and maintained for centuries to come.

Preserving old buildings requires large-scale repairs in collaboration with craftsmen skilled in the construction methods of the time, as well as daily meticulous maintenance. In the past, this responsibility was too great for individuals to manage alone. Through Kessaku, however, individuals can now participate in preservation with as little as 1/36500 of a share. All the repairs and management can be entrusted to Kessaku, allowing participants to easily engage in preservation activities and focus solely on enjoying the building.

the co-inheritance platform is dedicated to the preservation of architecture with historical, cultural, and artistic value

historical property in yakage town, japan

The first property offered under this model is ‘Kessaku YAKAGE.’ Built approximately 100 years ago, the house is situated in Yakage Town in Okayama, a historic post town in between Kyoto and Kyushu that retains much of its Edo-period charm. The residence, originally built by a samurai ancestry, is one of the largest in the area and is located in a traditional architecture preservation district.

this collaborative system allows for the enjoyment and preservation of architectural heritage

Entering through the gate and following the light that filters through the front window, visitors are greeted by a traditional landscaped Japanese garden. The garden, featuring a majestic black pine, sets the tone for the residence’s serene ambiance. The Okuzashiki, the main living room, has been preserved in its original state, allowing residents to reflect on the house’s rich history. The space flows into a lounge that combines traditional design with modern comfort, followed by a dining area reminiscent of the Taisho to early Showa era.

Kessaku re-creates buildings with respect to their original character

The whole property elegantly balances its historical elements with modern amenities. A special highlight is the bath and sauna area, which features a cypress-scented tub where one can soak while admiring panoramic views of the garden through early Showa-era glass windows that envelop the ground floor. Upstairs, the master bedroom offers the same sweeping view, spanning over the Yakage townscape and surrounding mountains beyond the garden.

by fractionalizing ownership rights, participants can enjoy architectural masterpieces as second homes

Starting from $45, participants can own a piece of traditional Japanese architecture. With owning 100 shares ($4500) or more, participant can use the architecture as a vacation home. Kessaku will handle all maintenance and upkeep so the owners can enjoy hassle free. In three years, shares can be resold on a secondary marketplace, adding flexibility and potential for value appreciation. Kessaku’s approach opens up new possibilities for those passionate about architectural preservation, offering an accessible way to co-own and cherish Japan’s cultural treasures. While Kessaku’s journey begins in Japan, the company has ambitions to preserve valuable architecture worldwide in the future.

Applications for purchase as solo or co-inheritance opened on August 31, 2024 – click here to find out more.