The Dream Is Real—And Totally Doable

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You've scrolled through dreamy photos of misty mountain villages. You've watched YouTubers restoring 100-year-old Japanese homes. And now, you're thinking… “Could I really move to Japan and buy a house?”

Short answer: yes.Longer answer: yes, but with some planning, patience, and a good roadmap.

This blog breaks down what you actually need to know if you're serious about making the move—from choosing the right property to understanding the legal ins and outs as a foreign buyer in Japan.

🧭 Step 1: Figure Out Where You Want to Live

Japan is more than just Tokyo and Kyoto. From snowy Hokkaido to sunny Okinawa, or even the serene countryside of Tottori or Nagano, every region has its own pace, price point, and personality.

Here are three common options:

• Rural villages – Best for cheap akiya, nature lovers, and remote work
• Small towns and regional cities – More convenience, still affordable
• Urban outskirts – Closer to city life, but prices rise fast

Pro Tip: Use websites like OldHousesJapan.com to browse hundreds of akiya listings across different prefectures.

🏠 Step 2: Understand What “Akiya” Really Means

Akiya (空き家) are vacant or abandoned houses in Japan—often in rural areas—left behind due to aging populations or inheritance complications.

Many of these homes:

• Are structurally sound but need renovations
• Cost less than a used car
• Can be eligible for subsidies or grants
• Are available to foreign buyers with no citizenship requirement

But some also:

• Come with maintenance issues
• Require navigating local laws and language barriers
• Sit in hard-to-access areas

✍️ Step 3: Can Foreigners Buy Property in Japan?

Yes—foreigners can legally purchase property in Japan, including land, without needing permanent residency or a visa.

What you do need:

• A Japanese bank account (in most cases)
• A personal seal (inkan/hanko) or signature certificate
• A licensed real estate agent (especially for translating contracts)
• Patience to navigate the paperwork process

Heads up: Owning property in Japan does not automatically grant you a visa. If you plan to live long-term, you'll need to apply for the appropriate residency or work visa separately.

💸 Step 4: Budget Beyond the Price Tag

Buying a home in Japan is cheaper than in many Western countries—but there are still extra costs. Budget for:

• Agent commission fees (3% + ¥60,000)
• Judicial scrivener & registration taxes
• Renovation and repair costs
• Annual fixed asset taxes
• Possibly a new septic system or roof

🔨 Step 5: What Kind of Home Can You Buy?

Here are the most common types of homes available to buyers:

• Kominka – Traditional wooden houses with charm, built 100+ years ago
• Post-war homes – 1960s–80s concrete or wood-frame homes
• Modern countryside homes – Built 1990s and beyond, may be move-in ready
• Renovated akiya – Already restored and often turn-key

You can find many of these via akiya banks (municipal listings), property agents, or niche marketplaces like Old Houses Japan.

🌱 Step 6: Decide Your Purpose

Buying a house in Japan is one thing. Knowing what you’ll do with it is another.

Are you…

• Moving permanently?
• Opening a guesthouse or Airbnb?
• Looking for a vacation home?
• Creating a creative retreat or studio?
• Starting a remote work lifestyle?

Having clarity helps narrow your options and tailor your renovation or relocation plan accordingly.

🎌 Final Thoughts: Akiya Dreams Start With a Single Step

Whether you’re in love with Japanese culture, tired of sky-high real estate prices at home, or simply want to live closer to nature, Japan’s property market offers a rare opportunity. With the right planning, you can absolutely move to Japan and own a beautiful piece of it.

From browsing akiya listings to learning about rural living, it all starts here—with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

Resources to Help You Get Started:

• Old Houses Japan - Property Listings
• Japan Akiya Bank Portal

Want help finding your first home in Japan? Let us guide you. Book a free consultation on OldHousesJapan.com and start your akiya journey today.

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