Creating New Value for Regional Resources: Launching Rental Space Conversion Support for Temples, Shrines, and Community Hubs

The Regional Design Lab Saitama (hereafter 'Labo-tama'), part of the Resona Group, has launched a business supporting the conversion of temples, shrines, and community hubs into rental spaces as part of efforts to effectively utilize idle assets in Saitama Prefecture.

This initiative utilizes 'instabase,' a rental space matching platform operated by Rebase, to promote the effective use of local resources and revitalize the regional economy.

This project is based on the findings from a fiscal year 2024 pilot program conducted by Labo-tama, which created local community spaces by turning vacant houses into rental venues. The model involves analyzing vacant property data in Sakado City, conducting needs assessments, and listing properties on 'instabase' to facilitate utilization.

Against the backdrop of a growing sharing economy, the lab aims to transform spaces that typically have limited usage opportunities into attractive local resources.

As an initial step, the lab is providing listing support for facilities such as the grounds of Suwa Hachiman Shrine in Hanno City and the multipurpose space on the 3rd floor of SHIKISM in Shiki City.