Looking for a unique property investment opportunity or holiday home project in Japan? With thousands of abandoned houses across the country, the akiya (空き家) market has been attracting attention from foreign buyers eager to own a piece of rural Japan, often for the price of a used car.
But navigating the process can feel daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the system. This guide to buying an akiya in Japan breaks down what an akiya is, why they exist, where to find them, and examples of successful purchases.
What is an Akiya?
An akiya is an unoccupied or abandoned house in Japan. The term literally means “empty house.” These properties can be found in cities, suburbs, and especially rural areas, where depopulation has led to thousands of vacant homes.
Many akiya were inherited and left unused when children moved to cities for work. Others are former vacation homes or properties where the owner passed away, and the heirs declined ownership due to upkeep or tax burdens.
Why Do Akiya Exist?
Japan is currently facing a housing paradox: new homes continue to be built while older ones are left empty. As of the latest data from Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, over 8 million homes, about 13% of all properties, are considered vacant, and this number is expected to grow.
Key reasons akiya exist:
- The Aging population: Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world. As older residents pass away, their homes are often left behind.
- Rural depopulation: Young people migrate to urban centers, leaving countryside towns with shrinking populations and little demand for housing.
- High demolition costs: Tearing down a house in Japan can be expensive, and many families opt to leave properties standing rather than pay for demolition.
- Inheritance tax burdens: Heirs may reject ownership to avoid paying property taxes or costly repairs.
How to Find Akiya Listings
There are several ways to search for akiya properties, and not all of them are in Japanese. Here are some options:
1. Akiya Banks (空き家バンク)
Many municipalities maintain “akiya banks,” or online databases of available properties in their area. While most are in Japanese, some regions (like Nagano, Tochigi, and Wakayama) are improving access for foreign buyers.
Search online: “地域名 + 空き家バンク” (e.g., “長野県 空き家バンク”).
2. Real Estate Platforms
Some platforms now include akiya or “renovation property” listings, including:
- Suumo.jp
- AtHome.jp
- Rakumachi.jp (for investment properties)
Use search filters like 築年数 (construction age) or 空き家 to locate older homes.
3. Specialized Agencies & Consultants
With thousands of people looking for potential homes, properties, or holiday escapes, many online databases have popped up to accommodate this search. Some of our friends and partners in the wider Japan real estate network have done exactly that.
- Akiyaz
- Akiya Hub
- Cheap Houses Japan
- Akiya Mart (Other houses available too, use code ‘NTI’ for a discount on your subscription)
Additionally, companies like ours (NTI) can help foreign investors identify and purchase akiya and other non-traditional real estate. However, these agencies differ in their offerings of language support, due diligence, and assistance with the legal process.
4. Word of Mouth & Local Networking
In smaller towns, some akiya are never formally listed. Engaging with local town halls, relocation centers, or expat community groups can sometimes uncover hidden gems.
Learn from the Experts: Podcasts & Presentations on Akiya
Get insights directly from those working in Japan’s vacant home market, from investors to infrastructure experts. Below are some of our most informative summit sessions, podcasts, and presentations on akiya, complete with summaries and viewing links.
🎥 Diamonds in the Rough: Inside the Japan Real Estate Summit
Summary:
Shu and Brett from AkiyaHub give a behind-the-scenes look at the Japan Real Estate Summit, sharing stories from investors and professionals working directly with Japan’s akiya market. They discuss what drew them into Japanese real estate, strategies they’ve used, and what they learned from other summit speakers. Viewers will gain a clearer sense of the current momentum building around akiya as a serious investment class.
Best for:
New and intermediate investors curious about Japan’s vacant home market, especially those looking for a sense of community and market trends.
🎥 The Role of Digital Infrastructure in Revitalizing Vacant Properties
Summary: Matt Ketchum presents a data-rich talk on how Japan’s rural akiya markets can be revitalized through digital connectivity and public-private partnerships. He explains that internet access is still shockingly low in some areas — and that building this infrastructure can be the key to unlocking akiya’s full potential. His talk urges investors to go beyond minimum renovations and focus on long-term transformation.
Best for:
Investors interested in community revitalization, digital nomad hubs, or partnering with local governments.
🎥 Buying & Renovating Akiya Near (but not in) Tokyo
Summary:
A detailed discussion about the city of Ito on the Izu Peninsula — a hidden-in-plain-sight location with great transportation, coastline, and underrated real estate value. The panel explores why certain areas like Ito are overlooked despite being well-located and full of potential, and they share real renovation cases including costs, features, and strategies.
Best for:
Buyers looking to invest just outside Tokyo who want more space and lower prices without going fully rural.
🎥 Ultra-Cheap Akiya, DIY Renovations & Airbnb in Hokkaido
Summary:
This episode follows two foreign investors exploring short-term rental opportunities in Hokkaido, including how they sourced akiya, renovation tips, and the realities of managing Airbnbs as non-residents. Legal, tax, and licensing issues are unpacked with practical advice on managing compliance and property performance.
Best for:
Foreigners interested in short-term rental models (Airbnb), especially in ski or resort regions like Otaru.
🎥 How to Buy a Cheap Akiya, Turn it Into an Airbnb, and Move to Japan
Summary:
Danny and Evan Benton share how they went from pet-sitting in Mexico to launching a self-sufficient Airbnb + homestead on Japan’s Shimanami Kaido. They explain how they secured a business visa, chose the right akiya, and built a sustainable lifestyle around food, tourism, and hospitality. Full of personal anecdotes and logistical tips.
Best for:
People considering relocation to Japan via business/investment visas, DIY renovators, and lifestyle-focused entrepreneurs.
Final Thoughts
Buying an akiya in Japan isn’t just a bargain—it can be a meaningful way to connect with the country’s countryside and contribute to rural revitalization. That said, every akiya is different. Some may require full renovations, while others are move-in ready.
For foreign investors, the key is to understand local regulations, assess renovation costs, and work with professionals who can guide the legal and logistical steps.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet mountain retreat, an investment project, or a creative space, Japan’s akiya market offers opportunities far beyond the standard city condo.
Looking for help navigating Japan’s real estate market?
NTI provides bilingual support and expert guidance for foreign buyers across Japan — including akiya, holiday homes, and income-generating investments.
