These abandoned dwellings, known as “Akiya,” were once primarily found in rural areas of Japan, but they are now becoming increasingly prevalent in major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto. Experts, like Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies in Chiba, emphasize that this surge in vacant homes is not a result of excessive construction but rather a consequence of population decline. Japan’s aging population and low birth rate are significant contributing factors to this trend.
Among the vacant homes are second homes, properties временно vacated by owners working overseas, and those left empty for other reasons. Due to low fertility rates, many Akiya owners lack heirs to inherit their properties. In some cases, younger generations who inherit Akiyas have relocated to cities and have no desire to return to rural areas.
According to Hall, selling abandoned houses can be challenging due to their often remote locations, lack of access to essential services, and administrative complexities for foreign buyers. Hall emphasizes the challenges foreigners face in navigating the rules and paperwork associated with purchasing Akiyas, as well as the unlikelihood of acquiring them at bargain prices.
The abundance of vacant homes in Japan highlights the country’s demographic challenges and their impact on the housing market. As Japan continues to grapple with an aging population and low birth rate, the number of Akiyas is likely to increase further, posing challenges for urban planning and community development.
