Nagano, Japan2024
ZuCity Japan
A permanent Zuzalu-inspired village in rural Japan addressing the Akiya crisis by restoring abandoned homes into hubs for art, innovation, and sustainable living, while building community infrastructure and hosting events to revitalize local economies.
What is ZuCity Japan?
ZuCity Japan is a co-living community that buys and restores abandoned homes in rural Japan, building a vertically integrated neighborhood to attract entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists.
History
Inspired by Zuzalu's pop-up village movement, ZuCity created its own community in Japan.
The first pop-up village took place in September 2025, and the 2026 edition is scheduled to March - ZuCity Japan 2026.
Location
ZuCity Japan restores homes across Nagano Prefecture, Japan, a rural area 90 minutes away from Tokyo by train.
Duration
ZuCity Japan offers both short-term co-living and permanent accommodation.
It hosts week-long and month-long pop-up villages and offers a 'try before you buy' path to home ownership through rent-to-own houses.
Rent-to-own: ZuCity Japan lets you rent short-term in coliving-style community homes, while crediting 50% of your rent toward buying a home in their Nagano-area community later.
Pricing
Homes
For long-term or permanent stays.
Starter Homes
$30k
- 1-4 bedrooms.
- 1-2 bathrooms.
- ZuCity central location.
- Rental income.
Premium Homes
$100k+
- Everything in Starter.
- Fully furnished.
Innovation Steward
$5k-$25k
- Permanent brand installations.
- Access to community and events.
Co-living
For flexible, short-term stays.
Nomad
$1,500/person/month
- Private room.
- Access to community spaces.
- Access to events and socials.
VIP
$2,500/person/month
- All basics included.
- Premium housing.
- 24/7 free car access.
Home Ownership
$30k-$100k
- Everything in VIP.
- Move-in support.
- Discounted events and amenities.
Innovation Steward
$20k+
- Branded houses, community spaces, cars.
- Discounted VIP retreats.
- Content production and app onboarding.
Innovation Steward is a sponsorship opportunity to create a fully branded hacker house or exhibition space in ZuCity Japan's community center.
Reviews
" Could Nagano be the next creative hub for artists and builders? " Tessla, Voyager
Visited ZuCity Japan the other day and was intrigued by the design challenges of reviving an old city. Giving new life to abandoned homes — could Nagano be the next creative hub for artists and builders?
How can you join ZuCity Japan?
Attend a pop-up village, or apply to join ZuCity Japan. The onboarding process consists of 3 phases:
- Interview. Schedule a call and discuss house preferences.
- Review. Choose the favorite one from provided options.
- Deposit. Complete purchase by transferring your payment.
FAQs
What is the goal of ZuCity Japan?
To revive rural Japan through buying and restoring abandoned houses, creating a strong community for entrepreneurs, scientists, and designers to thrive in.
What are ZuCity Japan’s next steps?
ZuCity Japan is looking to acquire more properties - including an abandoned school building - and more cars for its community.
How many pop-up villages has ZuCity hosted before?
ZuCity Japan 2025 was the first pop-up village it has hosted. ZuCity Japan 2026 is happening this year.
How much does it cost to attend a ZuCity Japan pop-up village?
$400 to $900 per week, depending on the amenities included.
What can I do outside ZuCity Japan?
Visit ski resorts, volcanoes (1 hour away), onsens (natural hot springs), and see monkeys.
What does ZuCity Japan own?
ZuCity owns four houses and a community car.
Is there any referral program in ZuCity Japan?
Yes. Members can earn $3,000 in credit towards their own home when referring a friend who buys one.