Hospitality start-up aims to breathe life back into Japan’s forgotten properties with its rural cabins

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Tyni’s vision is to introduce travellers to the tranquil beauty of Japan’s undiscovered towns and landscapes, and help them connect with local culture

Their classification as ‘vehicles’ allows its cabins to be placed in tranquil, protected natural locations without the need for lengthy building permits and development approvals

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Originally a company retreat during Japan’s real estate bubble in the late 1980s, the now-vacant beachfront location is being repurposed into a getaway destination. Photo: SCMP Handout

Yuke Xiein Beijing

Published: 10:00am, 2 Jun 2024

In the serene coastal town of Katsuura in the Japanese prefecture of Chiba, a small mobile cabin is quietly redefining the concept of sustainable tourism. The cabin, the first to be offered by hospitality start-up Tyni, sits against a backdrop of lush greenery and pristine beaches and is part of an innovative initiative to breathe new life into Japan’s forgotten properties.

Originally a company retreat during Japan’s real estate bubble in the late 1980s, the now-vacant beachfront location was acquired in 2023 by Mori Nishimura and repurposed into a getaway destination for urban couples living fast-paced lives during the week and seeking a quick escape into nature at the weekends.

“Many Japanese may not fully appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of their country’s nature and culture,” said Nishimura, co-founder and chief executive officer of Tyni. “While they cherish their four distinct seasons and the cultural celebrations surrounding each season, they may not realise how privileged they are compared to other regions with less diverse climates or fewer cultural traditions.”

Tyni’s vision is to introduce travellers to the tranquil beauty of Japan’s undiscovered towns and landscapes, and help them connect with local culture.

The start-up is rapidly expanding. It will soon secure funding from a notable Japanese angel investor and has the support of Yoshihisa Nakano, representative director of the Eastern Culture Foundation, which leads regional revitalisation initiatives in Atami, a city just 40 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train.

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Tyni has secured its third location in Atami, and plans to set up another five cabins in the city later this year, according to the co-founder.