☰
All Akiyas
Login
Register
Register
 

Blog >

Why More People Are Escaping for Japan’s Countryside

Affordability and community attract families looking for a new kind of opportunity.

As Japan's big cities become increasingly crowded and expensive, a growing number of locals and expats alike are looking beyond the skyscrapers and neon lights. The Japanese countryside, once seen only as a retirement destination, is fast becoming a haven for people of all ages seeking peace, purpose, and a fresh start. This article explores why now is the perfect time to consider relocating to rural Japan, what to expect from life outside the city, and how government support programs can alleviate some of the difficulties you might encounter.


The Rise of Rural Life in Japan

For decades, Japanese cities have stood as symbols of innovation, culture, and opportunity. But today, many Japanese and foreigners are realizing that the fast-paced city life isn’t the only way to experience all that Japan has to offer. With more flexible work environments, digital connectivity, and growing government support, moving to the countryside has never been more appealing.

And here's the best part: you can own a home in Japan, often at shockingly low prices, thanks to the growing availability of akiya (abandoned or vacant homes) throughout rural areas.

Why People Are Leaving the Cities

People are drawn to the countryside for a variety of reasons:

  • Nature and Peace: Imagine waking up to the sound of birds, breathing in fresh mountain air, and stargazing every night.
  • Lower Cost of Living: Fresh local food is cheaper, and property prices are a fraction of what you'd pay in Tokyo or Osaka.
  • More Space and Slower Living: Forget cramped apartments. Many akiya homes come with large yards, gardens, or even fields.
  • Community Spirit: Rural Japan offers a tight-knit sense of community, where neighbors help each other and traditions run deep.

What was once thought of as a retirement plan is now a popular lifestyle shift among younger generations, digital nomads, families with children, and those seeking a healthier work-life balance.

Life in the Countryside: The Realities

Let’s be honest—rural life in Japan isn’t always easy. Depending on the area, you may find:

  • Fewer hospitals and limited access to specialized medical care
  • A need for a car due to infrequent public transport
  • Fewer job opportunities, though remote work is easing this gap
  • Convenience stores and shopping centers may be far apart

But with these challenges come unexpected rewards: friendly neighbors, local produce, an unhurried lifestyle, and a chance to reconnect with nature and yourself.

Government Support Makes It Easier Than Ever

Here’s where things get exciting: many local governments are actively encouraging people to move to the countryside, offering support that makes relocating much smoother and more affordable. These include:

  • Subsidies for purchasing or renovating akiya homes
  • Moving expense coverage
  • Grants for starting a farm or small business
  • Support for childcare, education, and even birth celebrations
  • Free rice, rent subsidies, and tuition support in some regions

Whether you're moving alone, with a partner, or as a family, there are programs designed to help you settle in and thrive.

A New Chapter Waiting for You

Relocating to Japan’s countryside isn't just a change of scenery. It’s a chance to redefine what your life could look like. Yes, it takes some adjustment, but for many, the rewards far outweigh the initial challenges.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Japan, now’s the time to go beyond the tourist trail. With community support, stunning natural landscapes, and a surplus of affordable homes just waiting to be lived in again, the Japanese countryside is full of potential for peace, for purpose, and maybe even for a new beginning.