Unbelievable Bargain: 108-Year-Old Japanese House for Only $6,700!

Located in the quaint town of Kamiichi in Toyama Prefecture, a charming 108-year-old house is on the market for the astoundingly low price of just ¥1,000,000 – that’s roughly $6,700!

Despite its Taisho era origins, this 6K layout wooden house spans an impressive 140.81m² (1,516 sq ft) and sits on a 125.01m² (1,345 sq ft) lot.

Just an 11-minute walk from Kamiichi Station on the Toyama Chihou Railway Main Line, this akiya is an unbeatable chance to own a piece of Japanese history for a fraction of what you’d expect to pay.

Highlights For this $6,700 House

Price: ¥1,000,000 (~$6,700)
House Size: 140.81m² (1,516 sq ft)
Lot Size: 125.01m² (1,345 sq ft)
Layout: 6K (6 rooms)
Age: Built January 1916 (108 years old)
Location: Kamiichi, Nakashinkawa District, Toyama
Nearest Station: 11-min walk to Kamiichi Station

Charming Features and Local Amenities

Inside, you’ll find six traditional Japanese rooms with a nostalgic atmosphere. The house is equipped with essentials like a flush toilet.

Nearby amenities include shopping at Kamichi Shopping Town Pal just 982m away, along with Kamiichi General Hospital, elementary and junior high schools all within a 1.5km radius.

Similar used houses in the area go for ¥6,980,000 ($46,500) on average, making this ¥1,000,000 akiya an extraordinary value.

Why So Cheap?

At a mere ¥1,000,000 (approximately $6,700), this expansive 108-year-old house might seem too good to be true. The astonishingly low price can be attributed to several factors, primarily its age and location.

As the house was constructed in the Taisho era (1912-1926), it likely requires significant renovations and upgrades to meet modern living standards.

Additionally, Kamiichi is a rural town in Toyama Prefecture, which may not appeal to everyone despite its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to nature.

Moreover, Japan’s demographic shifts, including an aging population and urbanization, have led to an increasing number of vacant houses, particularly in rural areas.

As younger generations move to cities for work and education, many countryside homes are left abandoned or sold at extremely low prices.

This abundance of akiya properties has created a unique opportunity for those seeking an affordable entry into the Japanese real estate market.

Understanding Akiya:

Vacant Houses in Japan Akiya, or vacant houses, have become a growing concern in Japan over the past few decades.

These properties are often abandoned due to the owner’s death, relocation, or inability to maintain the house. In some cases, akiya are put up for sale at dramatically low prices to attract buyers willing to invest in their renovation and upkeep.

The Japanese government has even launched initiatives to promote the sale and rehabilitation of these vacant properties, hoping to revitalize rural communities and provide affordable housing options.

Purchasing an akiya can be an exciting prospect for those seeking a low-cost entry into the Japanese housing market or a unique renovation project.

However, it’s essential to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a commitment.

On the positive side, akiya often come with significantly lower price tags than move-in-ready homes, and they may offer larger lot sizes and living spaces.

They also provide an opportunity to customize the house to your preferences through renovations.

On the other hand, akiya may require substantial investments in repairs, upgrades, and modernization, which can quickly add up.

Buyers should also be prepared to navigate potential language barriers, cultural differences, and legal complexities when purchasing property in Japan.

Pros and Cons of Purchasing an Akiya:

Pros:

1. Affordable prices
2. Larger lot sizes and living spaces
3. Opportunity for customization and renovation
4. Potential for investment and rental income
5. Chance to contribute to rural revitalization

Cons:

1. Significant renovation and repair costs
2. Possible language and cultural barriers
3. Legal complexities and paperwork
4. Rural locations may not appeal to everyone
5. Limited access to amenities and services

Embrace a Piece of History in Toyama

For the adventurous soul yearning to rehabilitate a genuine Taisho period home, this 6K house in Kamiichi can’t be beat.

At a mere $6,700, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to invest in a spacious slice of Japanese countryside living just minutes from the train station.

Whether you cherish it as a rejuvenation project or a second home in the mountains, this akiya is the affordable Japanese retreat of your dreams.