Traditional Engawa House in Yonago, $49,000 Only

This charming Japanese house is listed at just 7,500,000 yen ($49,000 USD), offering a taste of traditional architecture in the city of Yonago, Tottori Prefecture. With its distinctive engawa (veranda) and convenient location, this property provides an intriguing glimpse into suburban Japanese living.

Check out the listing here.

Nestled in the Oshinozu-cho district of Yonago City, this single-story wooden house presents an opportunity to experience life in a smaller Japanese city. While the exact construction date is unspecified, the property features a traditional Japanese design, complete with an engawa, which is a hallmark of classic Japanese architecture.

The house sits on a 266 m² (2,863 sq ft) lot, providing a generous outdoor space – a valuable feature in many Japanese settings. The living area itself is 102 m² (1,098 sq ft), featuring a 2SDK layout (2 bedrooms, storage room, dining room, and kitchen) that offers a compact yet functional living space.

One of the property’s most appealing aspects is its location, just an 11-minute walk from the Wada Misaki Shrine bus stop. This proximity to public transportation provides convenient access to other parts of the city. The listing also mentions good access to national highways, suggesting easy connectivity to surrounding areas. The neighborhood is described as a quiet residential area, indicating a peaceful living environment.

The property’s price point of 7,500,000 yen (approximately $49,000 USD) makes it an interesting option for those curious about life in a smaller Japanese city with a rich cultural heritage. The relatively large lot size is noteworthy, as it provides ample space for gardening or outdoor activities – a luxury in many Japanese urban settings.

While specific interior features aren’t detailed in the listing, the traditional Japanese design likely includes elements such as shoji (paper sliding doors) and tatami mat flooring. The engawa, a covered outdoor corridor wrapping around traditional Japanese homes, offers a unique space that blends indoor and outdoor living – perfect for enjoying the changing seasons.

The property is situated in an Urbanization Control Area, which typically means it’s in a more rural or suburban setting with restrictions on development to preserve the area’s character. This could be appealing for those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

The building coverage ratio of 70% and floor-area ratio of 400% suggest potential for expansion or redevelopment if desired, subject to local regulations. The property is freehold, meaning the land is fully owned, which is often preferred in Japan where land leases are common in some areas.

Iconic nearby destinations:

• Yonago Castle Ruins: Located about 5 km away, or a 15-minute drive, these historic ruins offer panoramic views of the city and the Sea of Japan.
• Kaike Onsen: Approximately 7 km away, or a 20-minute drive, this seaside hot spring resort is known for its therapeutic waters and beautiful sunsets.

Facts about Yonago:

• Yonago is known as the “San-in Region’s Little Kyoto” due to its well-preserved historical areas and traditional architecture.
• The city is a gateway to the Daisen-Oki National Park, home to Mount Daisen, one of Japan’s most prominent mountains.
• Yonago Airport offers direct flights to Seoul, making it an international hub for the region.

Facts about Tottori Prefecture:

• Tottori is home to Japan’s largest sand dunes, the Tottori Sand Dunes, which stretch for 16 km along the Sea of Japan coast.
• The prefecture is famous for its high-quality nashi (Japanese pears), which are larger and juicier than typical pears.
• Tottori is the least populous prefecture in Japan, offering a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life and unspoiled natural landscapes.

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