With over 8 million vacant homes scattered across Japan, akiya (空き家) represent one of the most unique real estate opportunities in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful countryside life, a renovation project, or a potential rental business, choosing the right region is one of the most important decisions in your akiya journey.
This regional breakdown will guide you through the best areas in Japan to buy akiya—based on affordability, location, tourism appeal, infrastructure, and local government support.
What Makes a Region “Good” for Akiya?
Before diving into the list, here are the key factors that make certain regions stand out:
- Property affordability and availability
- Proximity to major cities or airports
- Tourism potential for rentals or guesthouses
- Climate and natural beauty
- Support from local governments (akiya banks, subsidies, tax incentives)
Now, let’s explore the top regions for buying akiya in Japan.
1. Nagano Prefecture
Ideal for: Nature lovers, ski enthusiasts, retirees, and rental investors
Nagano offers traditional kominka-style homes, breathtaking mountain views, and proximity to Tokyo (under 2 hours by Shinkansen). It’s a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
- Famous towns: Karuizawa, Matsumoto, Iiyama, Hakuba
- Known for: Ski resorts, hot springs, hiking, fresh produce
- Advantages: Strong tourism appeal, easy access, many akiya available
2. Shizuoka Prefecture
Ideal for: Ocean views, Mt. Fuji access, warm weather lovers
Shizuoka offers a unique blend of coastal scenery and mountain views, making it an attractive destination for retirement or vacation homes. It’s accessible from Tokyo in 1–2 hours.
- Famous towns: Ito, Shimoda, Fujinomiya
- Known for: Onsen, seafood, surfing, tea fields
- Advantages: Milder winters, sea and mountain access, renovation-ready akiya
3. Ehime Prefecture (Shikoku)
Ideal for: Peaceful living, island life, artists and creatives
Ehime is one of the most underrated gems for akiya buyers. Located on the island of Shikoku, it features quiet towns, friendly communities, and low living costs.
- Famous towns: Ozu, Uchiko, Matsuyama
- Known for: Cycling routes (Shimanami Kaido), castles, citrus farming
- Advantages: Extremely affordable homes, relaxed lifestyle, tourism potential
4. Yamaguchi Prefecture
Ideal for: Remote workers, slow living, retirees
Yamaguchi offers stunning coastlines, traditional homes, and a slower pace of life. It’s less touristy than other areas, which means cheaper homes and more space.
- Famous towns: Hagi, Shunan, Hofu
- Known for: Samurai-era architecture, beaches, pottery
- Advantages: Rich culture, good road access, low property costs
5. Fukuoka Prefecture (Kyushu)
Ideal for: Entrepreneurs, rental investors, mixed urban-rural lifestyle
Fukuoka is one of the most dynamic cities in Japan, and its surrounding countryside has great akiya options for those who want access to both city life and nature.
- Famous towns: Itoshima, Yame, Asakura
- Known for: Regional cuisine, tech hub, natural parks
- Advantages: International airport nearby, rental potential, strong infrastructure
6. Okayama Prefecture
Ideal for: Farming, art communities, family life
Okayama has a sunny climate, accessible transport links, and strong community revitalization projects. It’s becoming popular among younger Japanese families and foreign settlers alike.
- Famous towns: Kurashiki, Maniwa, Tsuyama
- Known for: Fruit orchards, Bizen pottery, art scenes
- Advantages: Family-friendly, low risk of natural disasters, supportive local programs
7. Hokkaido
Ideal for: Winter sports fans, outdoor lifestyle, remote escapes
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, famous for its powder snow, wildlife, and vast land. Akiya here are suitable for people who don’t mind cold winters and want space and adventure.
- Famous towns: Niseko, Furano, Biei, Otaru
- Known for: Skiing, national parks, summer festivals
- Advantages: Unique tourism potential, growing foreign interest, large plots
8. Tokushima Prefecture (Shikoku)
Ideal for: Off-grid living, spirituality, remote work
Tokushima is great for those seeking a more spiritual, off-the-grid life. It’s home to traditional farmhouses, forested mountains, and the famous 88 Temple Pilgrimage Route.
- Famous towns: Kamiyama, Miyoshi, Naruto
- Known for: Awa Odori Festival, hiking trails, rural tech start-ups
- Advantages: Very low-cost properties, supportive of digital nomads, deep cultural heritage
9. Kumamoto Prefecture (Kyushu)
Ideal for: Earthy living, spring water lovers, rebuilding visionaries
Kumamoto has been rebuilding since the 2016 earthquake and now offers many vacant homes with renovation potential. It’s ideal for people who want to contribute to rural revitalization.
- Famous towns: Aso, Yamaga, Hitoyoshi
- Known for: Onsen, volcanic landscapes, friendly locals
- Advantages: Subsidies available, creative renovation opportunities, natural beauty
10. Niigata Prefecture
Ideal for: Rice fields, hot springs, winter activities
Niigata is famous for its rice, sake, and snow. It offers large traditional homes, peaceful farming communities, and easy access from Tokyo by bullet train.
- Famous towns: Tokamachi, Myoko, Minamiuonuma
- Known for: Skiing, Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, sake breweries
- Advantages: Four-season lifestyle, traditional homes, solid transport links
Tips for Choosing the Right Region
- Visit the area before buying
- Consider your long-term goals (residence, rental, resale)
- Research local infrastructure and support
- Speak with locals or join regional Facebook/LINE groups
- Work with experts like Akiya Heaven to navigate legal, language, and renovation challenges
How Akiya Heaven Can Help
At Akiya Heaven, we help foreign buyers find the right akiya property in the best regions of Japan. From property selection to contract negotiation and renovation planning, we provide end-to-end bilingual support—so you can focus on building your dream life in Japan’s countryside.
- Access to listings not shown on public websites
- Regional recommendations based on your goals
- Consulting with licensed partners for legal clarity
- Renovation coordination and investment advice
Contact Us Today!
Ready to explore the potential of an akiya? Reach out to us at contact@akiyaheaven.jp to discuss your options and begin your journey toward owning a unique Japanese property. Akiya Heaven’s experts are here to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need. Unlock the potential of an akiya and turn an abandoned home into your ideal property. Contact us now to learn more!