Spacious Rural Retreat in Sayo for just $49,000

This traditional Japanese house is listed at just 7,500,000 yen (approximately $49,000 USD), offering a glimpse into rural living in the quiet town of Sayo, Hyogo Prefecture. Nestled in a peaceful agricultural area with the clear-flowing Chikusa River nearby, this property provides an opportunity to experience the tranquil countryside lifestyle of Japan.

Check out the listing here.

Situated in the southern part of Sayo Town, this spacious property showcases the charm of rural Japanese living. The house, priced at 7,500,000 yen (approximately $49,000 USD), sits on a generous 984 m² (10,592 sq ft) lot, providing ample space for outdoor activities and potential gardening. The house itself boasts an impressive 208 m² (2,239 sq ft) of living space, offering plenty of room for comfortable living.

While the exact construction date is unspecified, the property features a traditional wooden structure with an 8DK layout (8 rooms plus a dining-kitchen area). This spacious layout is uncommon in modern Japanese homes, especially in urban areas, making it an interesting example of traditional rural housing.

One of the standout features of this property is its location. Situated in a quiet farming community, it offers a peaceful environment perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life. The listing mentions that the house is near some fields, providing opportunities for home gardening – a popular pastime in rural Japan.

Transportation-wise, the property is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Harima-Tokusa Station on the JR Kishin Line. This accessibility ensures that while enjoying rural living, residents are not completely isolated from urban amenities and transportation networks.

The property does require some attention, with the listing noting that repairs are needed for damaged areas on the ceiling of the Western-style room. This is common for older properties in Japan and could be seen as an opportunity for personalization.

An interesting aspect of this property is the additional agricultural land associated with it. The listing mentions 2,823 square meters of rice fields and 775 square meters of other farmland. For those interested in agriculture or self-sufficiency, this could be an intriguing feature.

It’s worth noting that the property is located in a landslide warning area. This is not uncommon in rural Japan due to its mountainous terrain, but it’s an important consideration for potential residents.

Iconic nearby destinations:

• Hyogo Prefectural Bokujo Koen (Farm Park): Located about 20 km away, or a 30-minute drive, this park offers hands-on farming experiences and beautiful flower fields.
• Himeji Castle: One of Japan’s most famous castles, located about 60 km away or a 1-hour drive. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its brilliant white exterior and complex architecture.

Facts about Sayo:

• Sayo is known for its beautiful starry skies and has been designated as a “Starry Sky Village” by the Environment Ministry.
• The town is famous for its Sayo Sunflower Festival, held annually in August, featuring vast fields of sunflowers.
• Sayo is home to the Chikusa River, known for its clear waters and excellent for activities like canoeing and fishing.

Facts about Hyogo Prefecture:

• Hyogo Prefecture is home to Kobe, one of Japan’s most important port cities and famous for its Kobe beef.
• The prefecture contains the Kinosaki Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resort towns.
• Hyogo is known for its diverse landscapes, from the urban areas of Kobe to the rural beauty of the Tajima region, offering a microcosm of Japan’s varied geography.

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