The Top 5 Prefectures With Rising Akiya Demand 2025

The Top 5 Prefectures With Rising Akiya Demand

While much of rural Japan is facing population decline and falling home prices, not all akiya are being overlooked. In fact, certain regions are seeing a surge of interest from both domestic and international buyers—driven by tourism, lifestyle appeal, and growing awareness of Japan’s vacant home opportunities.

If you're looking to buy smart and ahead of the curve, here are the top 5 prefectures in Japan where demand for akiya is rising, and what makes each one so attractive right now.

🥇 1. Nagano Prefecture

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Why it’s hot: nature, skiing, and city proximity

Nagano offers a unique blend of:

• Year-round tourism (skiing in winter, hiking in summer)
• Traditional kominka homes in good condition
• Easy access from Tokyo (just 1.5–2 hours by Shinkansen)
• Increasing popularity among remote workers and expats

Towns like Karuizawa, Matsumoto, and Ueda have seen a bump in akiya searches and purchases, especially for second homes and Airbnbs.

💡 Bonus: Many akiya here come with spacious land and views of the Japan Alps.

🥈 2. Kagawa Prefecture

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Why it’s hot: art, islands, and low cost of living

Located on Shikoku, Kagawa has gained attention through:

• Naoshima and Teshima—world-famous art islands
• Affordable akiya properties near the sea
• Growing tourism and slow-living appeal
• Support from local governments for revitalization projects

Takamatsu and surrounding islands are seeing new life from artists, digital nomads, and boutique guesthouse creators.

💡 Perfect for: Buyers looking to blend culture, coast, and creativity.

🥉 3. Kyoto Prefecture (outside the city)

Why it’s hot: tradition with breathing room

While central Kyoto is expensive and crowded, rural towns in Kyoto Prefecture—like Ayabe, Miyama, and Fukuchiyama—are gaining popularity for their:

• Traditional thatched-roof homes and machiya
• Proximity to urban centers without the price tag
• Revival interest from both Japanese and foreign buyers
• Emerging interest in eco-retreats and cultural homestays

Kyoto’s name still carries weight—but the smart money is looking just outside the city lines.

🏅 4. Okinawa Prefecture

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Why it’s hot: tropical lifestyle and digital nomads

Okinawa’s akiya scene is heating up, especially on the main island and outer islands like Ishigaki.

Reasons for the surge:

• Subtropical climate and island life
• Rising interest in work-from-anywhere culture
• A growing community of entrepreneurs and foreign residents
• Unique Ryukyuan-style architecture

💡 Be prepared: Prices are climbing fast here, but properties with renovation potential still exist—especially inland.

🎖 5. Yamanashi Prefecture

Why it’s hot: Mt. Fuji views and Tokyo access

Yamanashi has become a favorite for buyers looking for:

• Proximity to Tokyo (under 2 hours)
• Scenic properties near Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes
• Opportunities for guesthouses, glamping, or tea retreats
• Vineyards, hot springs, and a growing eco-tourism scene

Towns like Fujiyoshida and Koshu have seen a rise in buyer activity, especially among young Japanese families looking to escape city costs.

💡 Bonus: Many akiya come with gardens or agricultural plots perfect for hobby farming.

📈 What’s Driving the Demand?

• Telework and remote lifestyles
• Growing awareness of akiya as assets, not burdens
• Tourism-related businesses (guesthouses, cafés, retreats)
• Local subsidies and support for new residents
• Cultural interest in slow living, self-sufficiency, and heritage preservation

And yes—foreign buyers are absolutely a part of this movement.

How Old Houses Japan Helps

We track regional trends and guide buyers toward rising markets. Our support includes:

• Curated property lists in high-demand prefectures
• Local context: transportation, zoning, tourism potential
• Agent introductions and grant application support
• Honest insights about which towns are growing—and which are not
• Renovation and resale potential for investment-minded buyers

Whether you're looking for a long-term home, an income-generating project, or a lifestyle escape, we’ll help you buy where the value is rising—not falling.

Final Thoughts

Not all akiya are created equal. Some are sitting empty for good reason—but others are on the brink of revival. With the right location and a bit of vision, your akiya can be more than a house—it can be a smart move.

Let Old Houses Japan help you find your perfect match in Japan’s rising real estate regions.