Spacious 8LDK Traditional House, $42,500, Hikone City

This expansive traditional Japanese house is listed at just 6.8 million yen (42,500 USD) in the historic city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture. Offering a generous 8LDK layout and additional structures including a storehouse, this property provides ample space for those seeking a taste of traditional Japanese living with modern conveniences.

Check out the listing here.

Located in the Kosaki-cho area of Hikone City, this wooden two-story house boasts an impressive 283 square meter (3,047 sq ft) living space on a spacious 476 square meter (5,124 sq ft) lot. While the exact construction date is unclear, the property offers a blend of traditional charm and potential for modern updates.

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The standout feature of this property is its sheer size and versatility. With an 8LDK (8 rooms, living, dining, kitchen) layout, the main house provides ample space for large families, multi-generational living, or those who need extra rooms for hobbies or home offices. The additional structures, including a traditional kura storehouse, a separate storage building, and a garage, add significant value and functionality to the property.

Situated in a quiet residential area, the house is conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from JR Inae Station on the Tokaido Main Line, offering easy access to larger cities like Kyoto and Osaka. The property is also just a 5-minute drive from the Lake Biwa Coastal Road, providing quick access to the beautiful shores of Japan’s largest freshwater lake.

The house is a two-story wooden structure, typical of traditional Japanese architecture. While the listing mentions that the exact age of the building is unknown, its style suggests it has a rich history. The property’s location in an Agricultural Residential Zone ensures a peaceful, rural atmosphere while still being close to urban amenities.

One unique aspect of this property is its corner lot position with road access on two sides. The eastern side has a 2.1-meter wide public road, while the southern side has a 3.5-meter wide public road, providing excellent accessibility and potential for future development.

The spacious lot offers plenty of room for gardening, outdoor activities, or even small-scale agriculture. The multiple buildings on the property provide various options for storage, workshops, or additional living space, making it ideal for those with diverse needs or hobbies.

It’s worth noting that the property is being sold as-is, including any remaining items. The listing mentions that the working condition of various equipment is unknown, and there may be some boundary confirmation processes required after purchase. Additionally, there are some unregistered structures on the property that may need to be officially registered before the handover.

Iconic nearby destinations:

1. Hikone Castle: About 15 minutes by car, this national treasure is one of Japan’s best-preserved feudal castles, offering stunning views and historical significance.
2. Lake Biwa: Approximately 5 minutes by car to the shoreline, Japan’s largest freshwater lake provides numerous recreational opportunities and beautiful scenery.

Facts about Hikone City:

1. Hikone is known for its well-preserved castle town atmosphere, with many historical buildings and traditional crafts.
2. The city is famous for its local specialty, “Hikone beef,” a high-quality wagyu beef rivaling the more famous Kobe beef.
3. Hikone is home to the University of Shiga Prefecture, adding a youthful and educational dimension to the historical city.

Facts about Shiga Prefecture:

1. Shiga Prefecture is home to Lake Biwa, which contains 1/6 of Japan’s freshwater and supports unique ecosystems.
2. The prefecture is known for its “Omi beef,” one of the top three wagyu brands in Japan.
3. Shiga has a rich tradition of Buddhist culture, with many important temples including the famous Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei.

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.