Real Estate Why does Japan have millions of empty houses? March 14, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Japan is experiencing a phenomenon known as the "akiya" problem, with millions of vacant homes due to a declining population, an aging society, and a surplus of housing. This surplus is driven by a combination of factors, including a lack of demand in rural areas and a preference for new construction over older properties. The […] Read more »
Real Estate Does Japan have 9 million empty homes? March 14, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Yes, Japan does have a significant number of empty homes, often referred to as "akiya." Recent estimates suggest the number of vacant houses in Japan is indeed approaching or exceeding 9 million, a figure that continues to grow and presents various challenges for the country. Japan’s Growing Problem of Empty Homes: Understanding the "Akiya" Phenomenon […] Read more »
Real Estate Why are Japanese housing prices so low? March 14, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Japanese housing prices are surprisingly low in many areas due to a combination of factors including a declining population, a surplus of vacant homes (akiya), a cultural preference for new construction, and the country’s stringent building codes. This makes owning a home in Japan more accessible than many might expect. Unpacking the Mystery: Why Are […] Read more »
Real Estate How much is 1 month rent in Japan? March 12, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment The average cost of a one-month rental in Japan varies significantly by city and property type, but generally ranges from ¥60,000 to ¥150,000 (approximately $400 to $1,000 USD) for a standard apartment. Expect higher prices in major metropolitan areas like Tokyo and Osaka, and for larger or more modern accommodations. Understanding the Cost of Renting […] Read more »
Real Estate Is it cheaper to buy or rent a house in Japan? March 12, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Deciding whether to buy or rent a house in Japan involves weighing various financial and lifestyle factors. Generally, buying a home in Japan can be a significant long-term investment, often proving more cost-effective over many years, especially in desirable urban areas. However, renting offers greater flexibility and lower upfront costs, making it a more accessible […] Read more »
Real Estate Is Japan selling houses for $500? March 12, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Yes, it’s true that in some very specific circumstances, you can find houses in Japan for as little as $500, or even less. This often involves rural or abandoned properties known as "akiya," which are available at incredibly low prices due to declining populations and the desire of owners to offload them. The Allure of […] Read more »
Real Estate How much does a house cost to buy in Japan? March 12, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment The cost of buying a house in Japan varies significantly based on location, property type, and size. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka are considerably more expensive than rural areas, with apartment prices often ranging from ¥30 million to ¥100 million or more, while detached houses can be even higher. Understanding the Cost of Buying […] Read more »
Real Estate Can a foreigner buy a house in Japan? March 12, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Yes, foreigners absolutely can buy a house in Japan. There are no legal restrictions preventing non-residents or foreign nationals from purchasing property in Japan. The process is generally straightforward, though understanding local nuances and potential challenges is key. Buying Property in Japan as a Foreigner: Your Comprehensive Guide Navigating the Japanese real estate market as […] Read more »
Real Estate Why do houses depreciate in Japan? March 3, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment Even though Japan is known for its high-quality construction, houses there tend to depreciate much faster than in many Western countries. This rapid depreciation is primarily due to a combination of factors including a focus on new construction, earthquake resistance standards, the psychological impact of age, and the prevalence of wooden construction. Understanding Why Japanese […] Read more »
Real Estate Do houses in Japan only last 30 years? March 3, 2026 by Myaya | Leave a Comment No, houses in Japan do not only last 30 years, though the average lifespan of a wooden house is often cited as being around this figure. This perception stems from a combination of factors including building codes, cultural attitudes towards renovation, and economic considerations, rather than an inherent inability of Japanese homes to endure longer. […] Read more »