Rustic 3DK Countryside Retreat, $7,500, Shimokitayama Village

This charming Japanese countryside house is listed at just 1.2 million yen ($7,500 USD) in Shimokitayama Village, Nara Prefecture. Nestled in a quiet area with excellent sunlight exposure and a spacious field in front, this property is perfect for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.

Check out the listing here.

Built in an undisclosed year, this 45 square meter (484 sq ft) wooden house sits on a generous 274 square meter (2,960 sq ft) lot in the Sata area of Shimokitayama Village. The property features a cozy 3DK (3 rooms plus dining-kitchen) layout, providing a comfortable living space for those looking to embrace country living.

This traditional Japanese-style house is situated in a tranquil residential area, offering a serene environment for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The property boasts excellent sunlight exposure, ensuring bright and warm interiors throughout the day. One of its most appealing features is the spacious field in front of the house, providing ample opportunity for gardening, agriculture, or simply enjoying the open space.

The main building spans 45 square meters, offering a compact yet functional living area. The 3DK layout typically includes a dining-kitchen area and two additional rooms, allowing for flexible use as bedrooms or living spaces. This layout is well-suited for individuals, couples, or small families looking for a simple, low-maintenance lifestyle.

The property sits on a 274 square meter lot, which is significantly larger than the house itself. This provides plenty of outdoor space for various activities, gardening, or potential future expansions. The listing mentions that the property comes with both a field and some forested land, adding to its rural charm and potential for self-sufficiency.

While the exact age of the house is not specified (listed as “unknown”), it’s important to note that some renovations may be necessary. The listing specifically mentions that the bathroom and toilet require repairs, which would be the responsibility of the new owner. This presents an opportunity for the buyer to customize these essential areas to their preferences.

In terms of amenities, the house is equipped with electricity, water supply (public water service), and propane gas. The toilet is currently a non-flush type, which is not uncommon in older rural properties in Japan.

The location, while remote, offers beautiful scenery. The listing mentions good views, excellent sunlight, and visible mountains, promising a picturesque setting for nature lovers. It’s also noted that there’s a golf course nearby, which could be an attractive feature for golf enthusiasts.

Iconic nearby destinations:

1. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes: Located within the broader region, these UNESCO World Heritage trails are about 50 km away and offer stunning hiking experiences through ancient forests.
2. Nachi Falls: Approximately 70 km from the property, this is one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls and part of the Kumano Sanzan shrines.

Facts about Shimokitayama Village:

1. Shimokitayama is known for its pristine nature and is part of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park.
2. The village is famous for its high-quality timber, particularly cedar and cypress trees.
3. Shimokitayama hosts an annual Firefly Festival in June, celebrating the natural beauty of the area.

Facts about Nara Prefecture:

1. Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites.
2. The prefecture is famous for its free-roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion.
3. Nara is the birthplace of sake (Japanese rice wine) and continues to be a major producer.

Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with this property or agent in any way. We are simply showcasing properties we find interesting to provide insight into the types of homes available in Japan.