How This Australian Found His Dream Japanese Ski House For $6,000

In a remarkable tale of international relocation, 40-year-old Australian Matt Guy turned his love for Japan into a permanent home by purchasing a traditional Japanese house in the ski region of Myoko Kogen, Niigata prefecture, for just ¥1 million (approximately $6,000).

His journey from first-time visitor to homeowner spans over a decade of thoughtful exploration and growing cultural appreciation.

Guy’s relationship with Japan began in 2010 during a six-week trip split between snowboarding and cultural exploration. Unlike his experiences in 30 other countries, Japan left a unique impression that kept drawing him back. He returned in 2014 to study Japanese, worked as an English teacher from 2016 to 2018, and finally made the permanent move in 2023.

The House Hunt

With a background in construction, Guy spent years researching Japanese property listings and exploring different regions before finding his ideal home. His search criteria focused on ski town locations, reflecting his passion for outdoor activities like hiking, backcountry skiing, and snowboarding. The opportunity arose while staying at a friend’s ski lodge near Myoko Kogen.

The Property

The two-story traditional house, built in the 1960s, came with several advantages:

• Strategic location slightly removed from the main ski area, reducing maintenance challenges like heavy snow clearing
• Fewer environmental concerns such as insects, woodpeckers, and bears
• Excellent community amenities including neighboring sushi and soba restaurants
• Convenient access to essential services (hospital, pharmacy, post office)
• Just two hours from Tokyo via bullet train

While the house was largely move-in ready, Guy undertook selective renovations, including addressing termite damage in the bathroom. He particularly takes pride in his custom bathroom renovation using traditional Hinoki Japanese wood.

Cultural Integration

Guy emphasizes that homeownership in Japan extends beyond the physical property. He actively participates in quarterly community service activities with neighbors and has embraced Japanese cultural values:

• Greater appreciation for seasonal changes
• Enhanced patience in daily interactions
• Deeper understanding of social equality regardless of occupation
• Strong focus on community contribution

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Guy has transformed his experience into a career as a content creator, documenting off-the-beaten-path destinations in Japan. He also provides property consulting services, helping others navigate the Japanese real estate market while emphasizing the importance of cultural respect and community integration. He shares his home with his Japanese partner and continues to make improvements to the property while maintaining its traditional character.

Advice on Buying Akiya

If you’re considering buying an akiya (abandoned house) or a ski house in Japan, focus on more than just the allure of affordability. Start by researching the region thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and values. Learn about local customs, seasonal weather challenges, and nearby amenities.

Be prepared to engage with the local community through meaningful contributions, whether that’s participating in street cleanups or fostering connections with neighbors. Assess the property’s condition carefully; while some homes are move-in ready, others may require substantial renovations.

Lastly, approach the purchase with a mindset of respect and genuine appreciation for Japanese culture, ensuring your decision enriches both your life and the community you’re joining.

Guy’s story serves as both inspiration and caution to others considering similar moves. He strongly advocates that foreign buyers should be motivated by genuine appreciation for Japanese culture and community rather than just the attractive price points of rural Japanese properties.

His experience demonstrates that successful integration into Japanese rural life requires patience, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine desire to contribute to the local community – elements that have made his $6,000 house purchase into a priceless life investment.

Source: Business Insider