What A US$23,000 House Looks Like in Rural Wakayama, Japan

I think it's important for anyone thinking of purchasing in rural Japan to remember that there is an expectation of developing relationships and contributing to the community. My sister and her family live in a rural community in northern Japan and recently purchased a traditional home. She has lived there for over ten years and has gradually developed many acquaintances and friendships. The opportunity to buy (and at such a good price) would not have been possible without these connections. Its also her relationships that have overwhelmingly enriched her life there. I was visiting her last week, and in the time I was there, she received 18 watermelons from a local farmer, two free pizza's from a local cafe, and a wood carving that a friend's husband made for her in her likeness (intricate and hours to make)! I was surprised by so much generosity. She then turned around and gave most of the watermelons to her coworkers and friends. She has given various food and gifts to the people around her and has helped others through volunteering, translating, etc.

Japan is such a beautiful country

You can't even get a house for ten times that in Florida now. That is so beautiful!

I love the wooden accents, the simplicity, the peaceful setting

The beauty of Japan makes me feel jealous

In my mind I'm picturing the yard transformed into a beautiful Japanese garden, it has a lot of potential.

This is a beautiful home. I’m glad someone will restore it and live there. It would be such a waste otherwise. Japan is so beautiful. I’m in Hawaii and $23,000 isn’t even a down payment on a house!

As a foreigner I lived in Japan for nearly two decades. What has to be put into perspective in a strong way are the necessary steps to be able to pull this off. Yes, it is not financially heavy price -- on the surface. But for a starter you absolutely must be fluent in Japanese. Not just a little. You are expected to help out the community, to be part of events, to do volunteer work if this is being done. You can't just shy away from the locals if you want to have a life there. Miss a beat and your life could be hell, seriously. You have to truly want to be part of a culture that is more or less never accepting of non pure bred japanese citizens. You will be second class whatever you may think. This is not to say people will not be polite or make you feel at home most of the time for most of the people. But in rural Japan, especially, you are expected to follow their game plan, not do your own thing. So, if you want to marry into an extended family, like it or not, this price is a bargain. But if you want to lead your own life, it may indeed result in enough hell through shunning that you will run from your investment. In other words, it's not for everybody.

I would love an update so that we can all see the transformation that you accomplished on the property and how it was furnished on the inside. If I were 20 years younger I could see myself making this journey. Now I am old and there is little I could offer a community other than what is stored in my small mind. Your friend is very lucky to have you to help with this beautiful home. I wish you all fortune and prosperity.

this gentleman is amazing at describing the house and the view. he has me sold

Thank you for sharing. Love the clean lines of the house and the ability to use the breezes to cool the home. See you again, soon!

Look forward to seeing the final clean up of garden and furniture in place its so lovely .

It's so much brighter inside than it looks like it would be from the outside. I hope your friend has enjoyed his new home. Good day!

Very beautiful house and great video, looking forward to the next one. Really need such calming and soothing videos during this difficult time..

This home is so beautiful thank you so much for sharing and such wonderful scenery I would love to live here and just live in peace and tranquility it’s so beautiful and relaxing. 🌸

What a wonderful presentation & what a lovely place‼️ Thank You so very much ~ Blessings‼️ 🎶💝

What a beautiful home! I would enjoy a house like that and getting to know the neighbors and community.

Beautiful home. I love the quiet space of the home.

I wish I had $23,000 now. I would buy that house in a heartbeat and live there.

Oh I absolutely LOVE this home! And the views. My dream.