Akiya Houses for Sale Japan - Buy Abandoned Houses & Traditional Homes

What Are Akiya Houses?

Akiya houses (空き家) literally means "empty house" in Japanese. These akiya houses are abandoned or vacant properties that have become available for sale or renovation throughout Japan. Our database contains over 60,000 verified akiya houses across 1643 cities and 1942 municipalities in all 47 prefectures.

Traditional Architecture

Many akiya houses are traditional Japanese houses (kominka) featuring unique architectural elements like tatami mats, sliding doors, and traditional roofing.

Affordable Prices

Akiya houses are often sold at significantly lower prices than regular real estate, with prices ranging from $7 to over $200,000 USD, with a median sale price of $30,000.

Rural Locations

Most akiya houses are located in rural areas, small towns, and villages, offering a peaceful lifestyle away from urban centers.

Popular Prefectures for Akiya Houses

Explore akiya houses for sale across Japan's most popular prefectures. From budget-friendly rural akiya houses starting at $311 to premium Tokyo akiya houses averaging $2,747.

Wakayama

Most affordable - avg. $311

Okayama

Buyers market - median $465

Akita

Rural charm - avg. $370

Hokkaido

Large land plots - median $255

Tokyo

Premium location - avg. $2,747

Okinawa

Tropical paradise - avg. $2,636

How to Buy Akiya Houses in Japan

Step-by-step guide to purchasing akiya houses in Japan, including legal requirements for foreigners buying akiya houses.

1Research & Location

Use our search tool to find akiya houses by prefecture, price range, and property type. Consider proximity to amenities, transportation, and local services when choosing akiya houses.

2Legal Requirements

Foreigners can buy akiya houses in Japan. You'll need a real estate agent, legal advisor, and to understand tax implications and residency requirements for purchasing akiya houses.

3Inspection & Survey

Conduct thorough property inspections for structural integrity, utilities, and renovation requirements. Many akiya houses need significant repairs.

4Purchase & Renovation

Complete the purchase through proper legal channels, then plan renovations. Budget for utilities reconnection, structural repairs, and modernization of your akiya houses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about buying akiya properties in Japan, answered by experts.

Data Accuracy Disclaimer - Important Information

Please read carefully: While we do our best to clean and remove outdated or incorrect information from our database, some property data may be inaccurate, incomplete, or no longer available. Property prices, availability, and details can change frequently. We strongly recommend that you visit the original listing domains directly and search for the specific property IDs yourself to verify current information before making any decisions. Always conduct your own due diligence and consult with qualified real estate professionals.

Can foreigners buy akiya houses in Japan?

Yes, foreigners can legally purchase akiya houses in Japan, including traditional akiya houses. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of akiya houses. However, you'll need to work with a licensed real estate agent and may need to establish a Japanese bank account for the transaction.

How much does it cost to buy akiya houses?

Akiya houses typically range from $7 to $206,000 USD depending on location, size, and condition. The median sale price across all akiya houses is $30,000. Rural akiya houses are generally cheaper (as low as $311 in Wakayama), while akiya houses in major metropolitan areas like Tokyo can average $2,747. Additional costs include renovation, taxes, and legal fees.

What are the typical renovation costs for akiya houses?

Renovation costs for akiya houses vary widely based on the property's condition and your requirements. Basic renovations for akiya houses can cost $7,000-21,000 USD, while full renovations with modern amenities may cost $35,000-104,000 USD or more. Common needs for akiya houses include roof repairs, plumbing, electrical work, and insulation.

Do I need to live in Japan to buy akiya houses?

No, you don't need to be a resident of Japan to purchase akiya houses. However, having a Japanese address and bank account can simplify the process of buying akiya houses. Many buyers use akiya houses as vacation homes or rental investments.

What is the difference between akiya houses and kominka?

Akiya houses (空き家) simply means "empty house" and refers to any vacant property. Kominka (古民家) specifically refers to traditional Japanese houses, typically built before WWII using traditional construction methods. Many kominka are also akiya houses, but not all akiya houses are kominka.

Are there any government programs to help buy akiya houses?

Yes, many local governments offer akiya bank programs (空き家バンク) and sometimes provide subsidies or grants for renovation of akiya houses, especially if you commit to living in the area long-term. These programs vary by municipality and are designed to revitalize rural communities through akiya houses.

Find Your Perfect Akiya Houses in Japan