Mapping out the problem of vacant houses in Japan : a case study of Kochi prefecture

Abstract: This thesis examines how local residents in rural Japan navigate the phenomenon of vacant houses (akiya), to understand the impact it has on their sense of place. The study is based on fieldwork conducted in Kochi prefecture, and relies on data from interviews, documents, photographs, and participant observation. The theoretical framework consists of sense of place theory and ideas of non-human agency, while employing thematic coding to analyze the data. This thesis finds that akiya form part of the lived realities of local residents by shaping the way they move and interact with their environment and each other, forming their sense of identity. Sense of identity and belonging is intimately connected to places, and when those places are changing or threatened so do our imaginaries for the future. Therefore, this thesis argues that akiya are inherently relational, existing within complicated social structures, both demanding and resisting action from the people around them. This impedes initiatives to solve the issue of vacant houses, and this thesis highlight the importance of considering the aspect of place and agency when developing policy for depopulated areas, not only in Japan, but also in other countries in the region, and beyond.