Affordable 5K Wooden Home: $12,500 in Kokonoe Town

This charming Japanese house, featuring 5 rooms and a kitchen, is available for just 2 million yen ($12,500 USD) in Kokonoe Town, Oita Prefecture. Located a mere 400 meters from Bungo-Nakamura Station, this property offers an enticing blend of affordability and convenience.

Check out the listing here.

Situated in the Migita area of Kokonoe Town, this modest 5K house presents an opportunity for those seeking a foothold in rural Japan. Built in January 1994, the property features a comfortable 118 square meters (1,270 sq ft) of living space on a compact 88 square meter (947 sq ft) lot. Despite being 30 years old, this wooden structure stands as a testament to traditional Japanese home construction.

The 5K layout, which includes five rooms and a separate kitchen, offers flexibility for various living arrangements. This configuration is typical of older Japanese homes and provides ample space for a family or for those who need extra rooms for hobbies or home offices. The property’s location, just a short 400-meter drive from Bungo-Nakamura Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line, ensures excellent connectivity to other parts of the region.

One of the appealing aspects of this property is its array of modern conveniences. The house is equipped with propane gas for cooking and water heating, and is connected to the town’s water supply. It features a combined septic tank system and a Western-style flush toilet, which are significant upgrades from older rural properties. The bathroom is fitted with an electric bath system.

For those concerned about staying connected, the property offers access to cable television (CATV) services and the possibility of internet connectivity. There’s also parking available for one car, which is essential for life in rural Japan.

The affordability of this property is particularly noteworthy. At just 2 million yen, it represents a rare opportunity to own a home in Japan at a fraction of the cost typically seen in urban areas. This low price point could be especially attractive to those looking for a vacation home, a retirement property, or a base for exploring the natural beauty of Oita Prefecture.

However, potential buyers should be aware that more detailed information about the property is only available after registering with the Kokonoe Town Vacant House Bank. This is a common practice for rural property listings in Japan and allows the local government to better manage inquiries and support potential buyers.

Iconic nearby destinations:

1. Kuju Mountain Range: Located about 20 km away, or a 30-minute drive, this is one of Kyushu’s premier hiking destinations, featuring stunning volcanic landscapes.
2. Kokonoe “Yume” Grand Suspension Bridge: Situated approximately 15 km away, or a 20-minute drive, this is Japan’s highest pedestrian suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the Naruko Valley.

Facts about Kokonoe Town:

1. Kokonoe is famous for its high-quality wagyu beef, known as “Bungo beef”.
2. The town is home to several hot spring resorts, making it a popular destination for relaxation and wellness tourism.
3. Kokonoe’s agricultural sector is known for its production of kabosu, a citrus fruit similar to lime that’s a specialty of Oita Prefecture.

Facts about Oita Prefecture:

1. Oita Prefecture has the highest number of hot spring sources and the largest outflow of hot spring water in Japan.
2. The prefecture is home to the Usa Jingu, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines and the head shrine of all Hachiman shrines in the country.
3. Oita is known for its unique cuisine, including “toriten” (chicken tempura) and “beppu reimen” (cold noodles), which reflect its blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture.

Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with this property or agent in any way. We are simply showcasing interesting properties available for sale in Japan for informational purposes only.