Rural Japanese Towns With Government Incentives for Renovation

Rural Japanese Towns With Government Incentives for Renovation

Dreaming of restoring an old home in the Japanese countryside—but worried about the cost of renovations? Good news: you don’t have to do it alone.

Across Japan, rural towns and small cities are offering grants, subsidies, and cash-back programs to help buyers renovate akiya (abandoned homes) and breathe new life into local communities. Whether you want to start a business, live full-time, or create a beautiful second home, these incentives can turn your budget into a blueprint.

Here’s a breakdown of how these programs work—and some of the best towns offering renovation support right now.

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🏡 Why Do These Programs Exist?

Japan is facing:

• A growing stock of 8.5+ million vacant homes
• An aging population and declining rural birthrate
• Younger generations moving to urban centers
• Shrinking towns desperate for revitalization

In response, local governments are offering financial help to new residents—especially those willing to renovate old properties, move into depopulated areas, or start businesses.

💴 Types of Incentives Offered

Not every town offers the same thing, but common support includes:

• 🛠 Renovation grants (typically ¥300,000–¥2,000,000)
• 🏠 Cash-back after purchase if you live in the home
• 🧱 Demolition subsidies for unsafe akiya
• 🧑‍🎨 Business start-up grants for using akiya commercially
• 🚼 Extra support for families, like relocation bonuses or childcare subsidies
• 🧰 Free or near-free akiya with required renovations

🏘 Rural Towns With Notable Renovation Incentives

1. Yusuhara, Kochi Prefecture

A mountain town known for eco-architecture and sustainability. Offers grants to those who renovate and settle long-term.

✅ Offers: Up to ¥1,000,000 for renovations + relocation support
💡 Why it’s great: Gorgeous forests, artistic atmosphere, and progressive community values.

2. Higashikawa, Hokkaido

Located near Daisetsuzan National Park, this town offers support to people looking to settle and renovate with modern, sustainable methods.

✅ Offers: Renovation funds and subsidized land
💡 Why it’s great: Close to nature, good infrastructure, and an active community development plan.

3. Tsuwano, Shimane Prefecture

A beautiful castle town offering incentives for restoring homes in its historic district.

✅ Offers: Subsidies for restoration if done in line with preservation guidelines
💡 Why it’s great: Walkable old town, tourism potential, and traditional aesthetics.

4. Ureshino, Saga Prefecture

Famous for its hot springs and tea, this town provides support for new residents buying old homes.

✅ Offers: Up to ¥1,000,000 in home improvement grants
💡 Why it’s great: Onsen town life + revitalization support = peaceful and practical.

5. Kamikatsu, Tokushima Prefecture

Known for its zero-waste initiatives and tight-knit community, Kamikatsu actively supports newcomers with sustainability-focused goals.

✅ Offers: Grants tied to eco-friendly renovation and relocation
💡 Why it’s great: Unique, progressive lifestyle and low-cost land.

6. Otari, Nagano Prefecture

A mountain village near Hakuba, offering grants to revitalize properties and bring in new full-time residents.

✅ Offers: ¥500,000+ renovation subsidies
💡 Why it’s great: Nature access, ski proximity, and large traditional homes.

⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind

• 📝 Application Process: You’ll often need to apply before starting renovations. Retroactive claims aren’t usually allowed.
• 🧾 Receipts Required: All spending must be documented—and sometimes done with town-approved contractors.
• 🕰 You may need to live there: Some programs require that you reside full-time or use the home as a base of business.
• 💬 Japanese language required: Applications are rarely in English. You may need translation or local help (we can assist!).

🛠 How Old Houses Japan Helps

We assist buyers with:

• Identifying towns offering relevant grants
• Contacting local government offices on your behalf
• Explaining application requirements in plain English
• Connecting you with certified contractors and renovation teams
• Coordinating inspections and timelines to meet program deadlines

We’ll help you maximize your renovation budget and navigate the red tape so you can focus on bringing your akiya back to life.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be rich to renovate a rural home in Japan—you just need the right guidance, a realistic plan, and access to the right town offering real support.

Let Old Houses Japan help you find that perfect place—and turn your renovation dream into a funded reality.