Scenic 3DK Mountain Home, $12,500, Kamikitayama Village

This tranquil mountain retreat is listed at just 2 million yen (12,500 USD) in the picturesque village of Kamikitayama, Nara Prefecture. Perched on a slight elevation along a quiet former national highway, this 3DK home offers breathtaking views and a peaceful lifestyle, perfect for those seeking a serene escape in rural Japan.

Check out the listing here.

Located in the Nishihara area of Kamikitayama Village, this single-story wooden house sits on a generous 225 square meter (2,422 sq ft) lot. While the exact building area and construction date are not specified, the property presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of rural Japanese real estate at an incredibly affordable price.

The standout feature of this property is undoubtedly its location. Situated along a former national highway with minimal traffic, the house is elevated slightly from the road, offering excellent views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. This setting provides a perfect balance of accessibility and privacy, ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle amidst nature.

The 3DK (3 rooms, dining, kitchen) layout offers a comfortable living space, suitable for individuals, couples, or small families. The property boasts two toilets, one of which is a modern flush toilet, while the other is a traditional non-flush type. This combination is not uncommon in rural Japanese properties and can be seen as a practical backup system.

One unique aspect of this property is its immediate availability. The listing states that it’s ready for immediate handover and occupancy, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate quickly or start a renovation project right away.

The house is equipped with basic amenities including electricity, propane gas, and public water supply. A septic tank system is in place for wastewater management, which is typical for rural areas in Japan. The property also features a kerosene boiler for the bath, though the listing notes that its operation has not been confirmed.

While the exact age of the building is unknown, potential buyers should be prepared for some renovation work to modernize the property. The affordable price point leaves room in the budget for customization and upgrades to suit the new owner’s preferences.

It’s worth noting that to purchase this property, registration with the Kamikitayama Village Vacant House Bank is required. This is a common practice in rural Japan, often implemented to encourage repopulation of rural areas and ensure that buyers are informed about the realities of rural living.

Iconic nearby destinations:

1. Omine-san (Mount Omine): About 1 hour by car, this sacred mountain is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range”.
2. Dorogawa Onsen: Approximately 1 hour by car, this hot spring town is known for its healing waters and as a base for mountain worship.

Facts about Kamikitayama Village:

1. Kamikitayama is one of the most sparsely populated municipalities in Japan, known for its pristine forests and abundant nature.
2. The village is famous for its high-quality timber, particularly Japanese cedar and cypress.
3. Kamikitayama is part of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park, offering numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities.

Facts about Nara Prefecture:

1. Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is home to eight 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 known for its production of traditional crafts, including ink brushes, Nara pickles, and goldfish lanterns.

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.