What Is a 6DK? Understanding Traditional Japanese Floorplans

When searching for property in Japan—especially older, vacant homes known as akiya—you’ll come across listings labeled with terms like “6DK”, “4LDK”, or “3K”. These floorplan codes are shorthand for the home's layout, and while common in Japanese real estate, they can be confusing to international buyers. This guide breaks down what a “6DK” actually means, how it compares to other floorplans, and why it's still widely used in traditional Japanese homes.

Breaking Down the 6DK Code

The term 6DK is a combination of numbers and letters that describe a property's layout:

• 6 = Number of main rooms, not including the kitchen, dining area, or bathroom
• D = Dining room
• K = Kitchen

So a 6DK is a home with six rooms plus a dining area and a kitchen. These six rooms might be bedrooms, tatami rooms, or multipurpose spaces. Bathrooms, toilets, laundry areas, closets, balconies, and entryways are not counted in this abbreviation.

This naming convention is part of a standardized system used across Japan to help buyers quickly assess layout types at a glance.

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Why Do Traditional Japanese Homes Have So Many Rooms?

Unlike Western homes that may prioritize large open spaces, many older Japanese homes are built with compartmentalized layouts. Rooms are separated by fusuma (sliding doors), and each space often serves multiple purposes depending on the time of day or season.

A 6DK home might have:

• Two or more bedrooms
• Dedicated tatami rooms for entertaining guests or tea ceremonies
• Seasonal storage rooms or unheated chambers
• A multi-generational family arrangement (parents, children, grandparents)
• A home office or study

This flexibility was crucial for families living together and for adapting to changing life needs. In rural akiya homes, you’ll frequently see layouts that reflect these traditional values.

6DK vs. 4LDK: What’s the Difference?

A “6DK” may seem similar to a “4LDK,” but there’s a key distinction:

• L = Living room
• D = Dining area
• K = Kitchen

A 4LDK home includes a designated living room, in addition to four main rooms, a dining room, and a kitchen. These are more common in post-1980s construction and often resemble modern Western layouts with more open, shared spaces.

A 6DK typically has smaller, more private rooms and lacks a formal living room. However, one of the six rooms is often repurposed as a living space. These older homes prioritize modularity and privacy over open-concept design.

Tips for Interpreting Floorplans

When buying a traditional Japanese home, knowing how to read the floorplan code is just the start. Here are some tips:

• Room sizes are measured in “jo” (畳) or tatami mats – one jo is roughly 1.62 square meters
• Some rooms may be non-standard sizes, especially in homes over 50 years old
• Rooms may be connected with no hallway — you may need to walk through one room to get to another
• Walls are often made of paper or wood panels, so privacy and insulation can be limited

These factors can impact how you use the space—and what renovation work may be required.

Renovating a 6DK Home

Many foreign buyers choose to reconfigure the rooms in a 6DK layout to suit modern preferences. Popular renovations include:

• Combining two rooms into a large open-concept living area
• Modernizing the kitchen and bathroom while preserving tatami rooms
• Converting a spare room into a studio, guest room, or workspace

The number of rooms in a 6DK can be an asset for families, remote workers, or anyone wanting separate spaces for rest, work, and creativity.

Final Thoughts

A 6DK home offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Japanese life—and a flexible canvas for modern living. Understanding how floorplan codes work is essential when evaluating akiya listings, especially if you're planning a renovation or relocation.

Want to explore available 6DK homes across Japan? Visit Old Houses Japan to browse listings and start planning your next move today.