Japan’s countryside is filled with thousands of akiya, vacant homes that are often deeply discounted or even given away for free. These properties offer foreign investors, digital nomads, and adventure-seeking homeowners an exciting (and more affordable) way to live or invest in Japan.
But buying akiya in Japan isn’t as simple as browsing a single platform and finding the perfect match – and not all sites are created equal. Some are more personalised, whilst others offer a wider range of properties where it’s up to you to browse for yourself. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, short-term rental project, or long-term fixer-upper, here are four websites we recommend to help you get started.
Not sure what an akiya is? Read our other article here.
1. Akiyaz
Best for: Foreign buyers looking for a curated, personalised English-friendly experience
Akiyaz is designed to simplify the akiya search for non-Japanese speakers. Think of the Akiyaz team as a personal “akiya concierge”, with various services to choose from to help you get started on your journey. These include Curated Property Matching, End-to-End Sales Support, Due Diligence, and Brokerage services. Their upfront and transparent fees make Akiyaz one of the smoothest entry points into Japan’s vacant property market.
What makes it different:
- Bespoke Matching: Based on your final goal with the property, the team will find what works best for you.
- On-site inspection: If you can’t make it to Japan for an inspection, you can request their team to conduct due diligence on your behalf
- Brokerage service: Their team will guide you through all the legal steps and hoops
If you’re new to the concept of akiya or looking for low-friction support, this is one of the most beginner-friendly tools available.
2. Akiya Hub
Best for: Explorers, investors, and remote workers looking for purpose-driven properties
Akiya Hub doesn’t just sell property; they’ve crafted a whole community around the journey of finding the best akiya for you. Co-founded by real estate professionals and creatives passionate about rural revitalization, this platform opens the door for those looking at lifestyle potential and long-term value over quick flips.
Why it stands out:
- Real success stories from akiya buyers
- Smart filters based on location, lifestyle, and property condition
- Active online presence with various YouTube video showcases here
Akiya Hub is a great match for people who want their property to be part of something bigger — whether it’s sustainable living, co-living, or regional tourism.
3. Cheap Houses Japan
Best for: Budget-conscious investors and people looking for ready-to-renovate homes
As the name suggests, Cheap Houses Japan specializes in uncovering some of the country’s most affordable real estate, often under ¥5 million. While the homes may need work, the platform does a great job of surfacing rare listings that wouldn’t show up on typical real estate portals.
What you’ll find:
- Hand-picked listings with upfront pricing
- Translated and accessible content
- Comprehensive renovation and ownership guides
- Weekly updates on new listings via social media and email newsletter
It’s ideal for those open to renovations or rural living, with a keen eye on value.
4. Another Method for Buying Akiya in Japan: Akiya-Mart
Best for: Browsing Japan’s wider property market, not just akiya
While the name might suggest otherwise, Akiya-Mart is a broader real estate platform that includes akiya listings but is not exclusively focused on vacant homes. Still, it’s a solid tool for comparing available properties, especially if you’re considering buying in less remote areas.
Features:
- General real estate listings (urban & rural)
- Property condition tags
- Market insights and maps
💡 NTI Readers Bonus: Use code “NTI” when subscribing to Akiya-Mart’s premium plan for a discount.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Which Website is Right for You?
If you’re serious about buying akiya in Japan, the right website can make a huge difference — from cutting down language barriers to helping you connect with local agents or renovation experts. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Platform | Best for | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Akiyaz | First-time foreign buyers | Personalised service and matching |
| Akiya Hub | Community-minded investors | Revitalization and lifestyle value |
| Cheap Houses Japan | Bargain hunters | Low-cost, ready-to-renovate homes |
| Akiya-Mart | General searchers | Mixed inventory across Japan |
FAQ
Do I need to live in Japan to buy an akiya?
No — foreign investors can purchase property in Japan, including akiya, without residency.
Are akiya free?
Some municipalities offer nearly-free homes through “zero-yen house” programs, but most akiya are sold for under ¥5M (~$30K USD).
Can I renovate akiya myself?
Yes, though you may need contractor licenses for major structural changes. Local rules vary.
Where should I look for akiya?
Regions like Kyushu, Shikoku, and Tohoku offer many listings. These platforms help filter by area and condition.
