apply now
only six places available each year
on this very special creative residency for writers
convenience
This former village farmhouse in Matogata will be your home for a month, just 15 minutes by train from the beautiful city of Himeji with its UNESCO castle, and 2 hours from Kansai Airport by bullet train. You can eat out at local restaurants or prepare your own meals in the large kitchen. There are two convenience stores a short stroll from the house and a supermarket in the next village.
variety
There are many different places for participants to work and meditate in the house and its surrounding outdoor spaces. Right on your doorstep are two Buddhist temples, several shrines, as well as local mountain hiking routes to explore. There are two bicycles available for local trips, and several local libraries and cafes to work at if you feel like a change of scene.
comfort
Whether it’s upstairs or downstairs, your private room will be simple and traditional, with a thick futon mattress laid on the tatami-matted floor, space to store your belongings, a desk with a lamp, and an electric fan. There is a modern shared Japanese bathtub and shower room and a separate washbasin and toilet. You may also use the washing machine for a small fee.
There is no application fee.
To apply for the May or November 2027 residency click below and complete and submit the form.
Deadline for applications
1 December 2026 for the May residency
1 June 2027 for the November residency.
one month residency
£1600/¥350,000*
*what's included:
1 month residential tenancy with private room
+ shared workspace + use of utilities + fast Wi-Fi
*what's not included:
meals, travel, insurance, personal expenses and housekeeping