Cozy Onsen Town Home in Shibukawa, $48,720 Only

This affordable Japanese house is listed at just 7,500,000 yen ($48,720 USD), offering a quaint living space in the famous hot spring town of Ikaho, Shibukawa City. Nestled in a picturesque location, this property provides a unique opportunity to experience life in one of Japan’s renowned onsen destinations.

Check out the listing here.

Located in Ikaho-machi, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, this charming wooden house presents an intriguing glimpse into small-town Japanese living. Built in April 1997, the property is relatively modern at 27 years old, offering a blend of contemporary comfort and traditional aesthetics. The house sits on a spacious 284 m² (3,058 sq ft) lot, providing ample outdoor space – a rarity in many Japanese urban settings. The living area itself is a compact yet functional 79 m² (850 sq ft), featuring a 2LDK layout (2 bedrooms, living room, dining room, and kitchen) that efficiently utilizes the available space.

One of the property’s most appealing aspects is its location in Ikaho, a town famous for its hot springs and traditional atmosphere. This setting offers residents and visitors alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture and relaxation.

Transportation-wise, the house is situated about a 16-minute drive from JR Shibukawa Station on the Joetsu Line. While not within walking distance of the station, this location offers a balance between accessibility and a peaceful, semi-rural environment.

The property’s price point of 7,500,000 yen (approximately $48,720 USD) makes it an interesting option for those looking to experience life in a smaller Japanese city, especially one with such rich cultural significance.

While specific interior features aren’t detailed in the listing, the 2LDK layout suggests a cozy living space suitable for a small family or as a vacation home. The large lot size also presents opportunities for gardening or outdoor relaxation, enhancing the overall living experience.

It’s worth noting that the property is located in an Unzoned Area (Hisenkiku-chiiki), which may offer more flexibility in terms of land use compared to strictly zoned urban areas. The building coverage ratio of 70% and floor-area ratio of 400% suggest potential for expansion or redevelopment, subject to local regulations.

Iconic nearby destinations:

• Ikaho Stone Steps: Located within walking distance, these famous 365 stone steps lined with traditional shops and ryokans are the heart of Ikaho Onsen.
• Mount Haruna: Approximately 20 km away, or a 40-minute drive, this dormant volcano offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Facts about Shibukawa:

• Shibukawa is known as the “Navel of Japan” due to its central location within the country.
• The city is famous for its numerous hot springs, including Ikaho Onsen and Shima Onsen.
• Shibukawa hosts the annual Shibukawa Heso (Belly Button) Festival, a unique event celebrating the city’s central location.

Facts about Gunma Prefecture:

• Gunma is home to many of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, including Kusatsu Onsen.
• The prefecture is known for its abundant nature, including the picturesque Oze National Park.
• Gunma has a rich history of silk production and was once a major center of Japan’s silk industry.

Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with this property or agent in any way. We’re just showing properties we find interesting for informational purposes.