About us

Your trusted partner in real estate

At Old Houses Japan, we’re more than just a real estate company, we’re innovators on a mission to revolutionize the Japanese property market. We help dreams of owning a piece of Japan become a reality for people all around the world.

Traditional akiya-style Japanese house with wooden architecture, nestled in a lush green garden in the Japanese countryside.
OUR STORY

Born from a decade long dream of owning a home in Japan, Old Houses Japan brings you homes both old and hopefully "cheap" to ignite your dream of owning real estate in Japan. We've been searching through hundreds, if not thousands of homes in search for our dream home in the countryside and we want to bring them to you!​

Here at Old House Japan, we'll continue to search for the best "akiya" also known as vacant and low cost homes to you. Our goal will continue to bring you the best cheap houses within Japan but also check out the "free" homes available if you're ready to put your own finishing touches on your dream home!​

Keep searching for your dream home and we'll always be here to help!

Abandoned Japanese countryside house with wooden exterior and tiled roof, available for restoration.
Old akiya house for sale in Japan with overgrown garden and original architectural details.
Rustic vacant property in Japan’s countryside, ideal for renovation or relocation.

Victoria Lane, Founder

Since my teenage years, I’ve dreamed of visiting Japan, and in the fall of 2019, that dream finally came true. It was on that unforgettable trip that my husband, David, proposed to me at the iconic Fushimi-Inari Taisha, surrounded by the striking torii gates that have captivated so many. But beyond the romance of our engagement, we were both swept away by Japan’s incredible charm. Its rich culture, picturesque landscapes, and warm-hearted people made us fall in love with the country.

Since then, we've made it a point to return to Japan every year—not just to explore new places but also to search for properties and continue building on my Japanese language skills so I can better connect with the people we meet along the way. While we haven't yet found our perfect home, we’re not giving up on that dream. My hope is that you, too, find the home of your dreams here at Old Houses Japan.

Get in touch!
Co-founders of Old Houses Japan standing in front of a restored Japanese countryside home.
Co-founders of Old Houses Japan standing in front of a restored Japanese countryside home.

David Lake,
Co-Founder

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been captivated by Japanese culture. So, when my wife, Victoria, and I booked our trip to Japan in 2019, I never imagined the profound impact it would have on my life. Not only did I propose to Victoria in the heart of Kyoto, but I also knew deep down that Japan would eventually become the place I would want to call home.

Having traveled extensively throughout Japan, I can honestly say there is so much to love about this country, with countless places still waiting to be explored. Creating Old Houses Japan has been a dream come true—one where we can offer people, like us, who are on a budget but share a love for Japan, the chance to purchase their very own dream house or Akiya.

Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to explore new possibilities, and stay tuned—there are so many more exciting things to come from this venture!

Get in touch!

How we make
real estate simple

Old Houses Japan's mission is to revitalize Japan’s countryside by connecting people worldwide with charming, affordable akiya homes. We aim to make the process of finding and purchasing these unique properties easy, exciting, and accessible, fostering a new chapter for both the homes and their owners.

Traditional unoccupied home in a quiet Japanese village, showcasing potential as a countryside retreat.Empty akiya house with sliding doors and wooden structure, perfect for buyers seeking a fixer-upper in Japan.

Our Pillars of Excellence

10,000+
Homes To Browse
50+
Partner Agents
350+
Akiya Banks

Our guiding principles

Authenticity

We celebrate the unique charm and history of Japan’s traditional homes, connecting people with genuine akiya properties that tell their own stories.

Accessibility

We strive to make the process of finding and purchasing an akiya as seamless as possible, offering clear guidance and support every step of the way.

Community

We are dedicated to revitalizing rural areas by fostering connections between new homeowners and the local communities, promoting sustainable living and cultural appreciation.

orange and black wooden temple during day

Why Choose Old Houses Japan?

Choose Old Houses Japan for expert guidance, a vast selection of akiya properties, and personalized support in finding your perfect Japanese home.

Extensive Property Listings
Access a wide selection of akiya properties across various prefectures, making it easy to find your dream home.
Expertise in Akiya Properties
Specializing in Japan’s unique vacant homes, we provide insights and guidance tailored to your needs.
Personalized Support
From initial search to final purchase, we offer dedicated assistance at every step, including navigating cultural and legal nuances.

Ready to Find Your Dream Home in Japan?

Start your journey to find your dream akiya home with Old Houses Japan today! Whether you're seeking a serene countryside retreat or a unique renovation project, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make your vision a reality!

Fall trees in Japan. Living room of Japanese modern house.