Traditional Japanese House in Fukuchiyama City For $11k

In the picturesque countryside of Kyoto Prefecture, a piece of Japanese history is available for an astonishingly low price. A traditional Japanese house, built in 1893, is currently on the market for just 1.8 million yen (approximately $11,400 USD). This property, located in Shimonosho, Fukuchiyama City, offers a rare glimpse into rural Japanese living and the types of historic homes available in the country.

Check out the listing here.

The house itself is a spacious two-story wooden structure, boasting 235 square meters (about 2,530 square feet) of living space. It features a traditional 7SK layout, which includes seven rooms plus storage and a kitchen. What’s particularly noteworthy is the expansive land that comes with the property – a generous 1,066 square meters (approximately 11,475 square feet). This sizable plot offers numerous possibilities for gardening, outdoor activities, or even small-scale farming.

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Built during the Meiji era, this home has weathered over 130 years of Japanese history. Its age is evident in its traditional architectural features, which likely include elements such as shoji screens, tatami flooring, and possibly even a small family shrine or tokonoma (decorative alcove).

The listing mentions that the property includes a separate building or “hanare,” which is often used as a guesthouse or studio in traditional Japanese homes.

The property’s location in Fukuchiyama City places it in a rural area of Kyoto Prefecture, far from the tourist-heavy ancient capital of Kyoto city. Fukuchiyama is known for its castle and as a transportation hub for the northern Kyoto region. The nearest train station, Fukuchiyama Station, is about a 40-minute bus ride plus an 8-minute walk from the property, indicating its relatively remote location.

While the price tag of 1.8 million yen ($11,400 USD) might seem incredibly low by international standards, it’s important to note that such pricing is not uncommon for older homes in rural Japan. This phenomenon, known as “akiya” (empty homes), is a result of Japan’s aging population and urban migration, leaving many rural properties vacant and available at low prices.

However, potential buyers should be aware that such historic properties often come with significant challenges. The age of the building likely means it will require extensive renovations to meet modern living standards, particularly in areas like insulation, plumbing, and electrical systems. The costs of these renovations could easily surpass the purchase price of the home itself.

The listing mentions some basic amenities, including water, propane gas, and electricity. It also notes some traditional features like a veranda (engawa) and a horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu), which are charming elements of traditional Japanese home design.

For those intrigued by life in rural Japan, this property offers insight into the types of homes available. The expansive land and additional building provide potential for various uses, from hobby farming to creating a spacious family compound. However, it’s crucial to understand that maintaining such a property would require significant time, effort, and financial investment.