This study focuses on "ibasho" in Japan in the sense of free spaces for people with a history of hikikomori (social withdrawal) who have trouble in finding employment. The paper reviews previous literature on "ibasho," and attempts to clarify the role that "ibasho" are expected to play in supporting these people. As a result of the analysis, six functions of "ibasho" were extracted. Specifically, (1) shelter and asylum, (2) interpersonal relations, (3) "ibasho" as a safe and secure place, (4) bridge to social independence, (5) resistance to dominant values, and (6) dilemmas with "ibasho." In conclusion, we noted that "ibasho" is a concept that has immense possibilities in practice, although it needs to be refined before it can be used as an academic concept as it is.