House Prices in Japan: 2025 Breakdown by Prefecture and Akiya Opportunities

Owning a house in Japan, a country of fascinating culture and advanced technology, may have crossed your mind. However, before purchasing property, it’s important to understand the range of house prices across various prefectures in Japan.

Property prices vary widely depending on location, property type, and market conditions. This article will review house prices in several key prefectures based on the latest 2025 data, along with insights on the empty house (akiya) phenomenon that could present investment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

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Why Do House Prices in Japan Vary?

House prices in Japan are influenced by several factors such as location, transportation access, building age, and market demand. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka have higher prices due to high demand and limited land.

On the other hand, rural areas offer much lower prices—some even have empty houses (akiya) available at very affordable prices or even free under certain conditions. According to the latest data, the average price of a new house in Japan in 2024 was 60.82 million yen (around IDR 7 billion), up 2.9% from the previous year, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025.

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House Price Ranges in Major Japanese Prefectures (2025)

Here is an overview of house prices in several prefectures based on the latest data from trusted sources:

1. Tokyo: The Price Capital

Tokyo, Japan’s capital, has the highest property prices. The average price of a new home in the Tokyo metropolitan area in 2024 was 78.2 million yen (around IDR 9 billion), despite a 3.5% drop due to reduced high-end supply. Single-family homes range from 43.3 million yen (IDR 4.9 billion) to 60.6 million yen (IDR 6.9 billion), depending on location—central or suburban. Pre-owned apartments may even cost more than new ones due to their strategic locations. If you’re planning to live in Tokyo, prepare a large budget and consider proximity to train stations, which greatly affects price.

2. Kanagawa: A Close Tokyo Alternative

Neighboring Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture offers slightly more affordable prices. The average price of new homes in Kanagawa in 2021 was 41.4 million yen (around IDR 4.7 billion), and is expected to rise slightly by 2025 due to increased construction costs. Kanagawa is popular due to its proximity to Tokyo and includes the growing city of Yokohama. Properties here are ideal for those seeking easy access to the capital without Tokyo’s high prices.

3. Osaka and Kinki: Kansai’s Economic Center

The Kinki region, including Osaka, has seen a significant rise in house prices. In 2024, the average price of a new house in Kinki reached 53.57 million yen (around IDR 6.1 billion), up 14.8% from the previous year. Osaka, as Kansai’s economic hub, has lower prices than Tokyo, but remains high due to strong demand. Suburban Osaka offers options for families seeking balance between affordability and access.

4. Fukuoka: A Growing City with Affordable Prices

Fukuoka in Kyushu showed the highest house price growth in 2024, rising 40.1% from the previous year, although actual prices remain lower than other major cities. In 2025, Fukuoka homes are expected to range from 30–40 million yen (IDR 3.4–4.5 billion), making it an attractive option for investors or expats wanting modern city living at lower costs.

5. Tohoku (Akita and Aomori): The Cheapest Prices

Tohoku, especially Akita and Aomori, offers the lowest house prices in Japan. The cost per square meter here is around $100 (about 13,000 yen or IDR 1.5 million). Houses in rural Tohoku suit those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, although access to shops or hospitals may be limited. Many empty homes here are sold starting from 754,998 yen (IDR 8.5 million) to tens of millions.

6. Wakayama and Tokushima: The Akiya Paradise

Wakayama and Tokushima prefectures have the highest empty house rates, reaching 21.2% in 2023. Akiya prices here are extremely low—starting at 50,000 yen (IDR 6.5 million) or even free with conditions like permanent residence or renovations. However, buyers must consider renovation costs and annual taxes, which can be around 25,000 yen (IDR 3.5 million) for a 54-square-meter house.

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The Akiya Phenomenon: Opportunity or Challenge?

Japan is facing an empty house (akiya) problem with 9 million vacant homes in 2023, or 14% of total residences. Akiya are mostly found in rural areas, abandoned due to urban migration and declining population. The government offers them cheaply, even free, to attract new residents. For instance, in Okutama, homes are given away if the buyer is under 40 and has children.

However, buying an akiya isn’t always simple. Many are damaged and require costly renovations. Additionally, social stigma about previous deaths in homes can deter local buyers. Still, akiya attract foreigners, including Indonesians who see them as affordable housing or investment opportunities.

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Make Your Dream Come True with Smart Planning

Owning a home in Japan is no longer just a dream, especially with akiya and affordable options in rural prefectures. However, buying a home requires thorough research on the location, property condition, and hidden costs. Tokyo and Osaka are ideal for urban lifestyles, while Tohoku or Wakayama offer peaceful rural life at low prices. Whatever your choice, be sure to plan financially and understand local culture to ease your transition into Japan.

Interested in buying a house in Japan? Start by exploring Akiya Bank sites or consult with a trusted property agent. Share this article with friends who also dream of living in the Land of the Rising Sun!