Effective Date: May 2nd, 2025

This Cookies Policy explains how FreeAkiya.com ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to the terms of this policy. If you do not agree, you may disable cookies via your browser or the cookie banner provided.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device to store data that can be recalled by a web server. These technologies help improve your experience by remembering your actions and preferences (e.g. login, language, site navigation).

2. Why We Use Cookies

We use cookies for the following purposes:

a. Essential Cookies

Necessary for the website to function. These cookies do not require consent and include:

  • Site access and navigation
  • Security and authentication
  • Cookie consent storage
b. Performance & Analytics Cookies

Used to track and analyze site usage and traffic to improve user experience. These are set only with your consent and include:

  • Google Analytics cookies
  • Traffic pattern data
  • Time spent on pages and content interactions
c. Functionality Cookies

Help personalize your experience, such as remembering form submissions, user preferences, or previously viewed pages. Set only with your consent.

d. Third-Party & Embedded Content Cookies

Cookies may be set by external platforms when you engage with third-party services (e.g. video embeds, share buttons, or maps). We do not control these cookies, and their data collection practices are governed by their own privacy policies.

3. Legal Basis for Use of Cookies

Under laws like the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other applicable privacy regulations, we:

  • Rely on legitimate interest to use essential cookies
  • Rely on your explicit consent for all non-essential cookies (e.g., analytics, third-party, marketing)

You can withdraw or modify consent at any time using the cookie settings or your browser.

4. User Responsibility & Control

While we aim to honor user privacy and cookie preferences, FreeAkiya.com cannot guarantee that disabling cookies will always block tracking by third-party platforms, especially when accessed through embedded content (e.g., YouTube videos or share plugins).

We encourage users to:

  • Adjust browser settings to block or delete cookies
  • Use browser tools to manage third-party tracking
  • Review the cookie and privacy policies of third-party platforms accessed through our site

We disclaim liability for third-party data collection activities.

5. Limitation of Liability

FreeAkiya.com will make commercially reasonable efforts to ensure cookies function as described. However:

  • We do not guarantee complete control over third-party cookies
  • We are not liable for the consequences of users failing to manage their cookie preferences or browser settings

By using our website, you acknowledge this limitation.

6. Managing Your Preferences

We provide users with a cookie banner on first visit, allowing:

  • Full acceptance
  • Selective consent (for categories like analytics)
  • Full rejection of non-essential cookies

You may also manage cookie preferences through your browser.
See guides for:

Disabling cookies may affect functionality on FreeAkiya.com.

7. Third-Party Cookies We Use

Third-party tools may include (but are not limited to):

  • Google Analytics (website usage tracking)
  • YouTube or Vimeo (video playback)
  • Social platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram sharing features)

Each third party has its own privacy and cookie practices. We recommend reviewing their documentation separately.

8. Updates to This Policy

We reserve the right to update or revise this Cookies Policy at any time to reflect changes in law, technology, or our website. All changes will be posted on this page with a revised “Effective Date.”

9. Contact Us

Questions or concerns?
Email us at: info@freeakiya.com
📍 FreeAkiya — A project by Old Houses Japan

Olivia Rhye
11 Jan 2022
5 min read