Our first day of abandoned house hunting in the Japanese countryside

[@MrTheronballard]

These small snap shots of rural Japanese life are extremely calming and enjoyable. Truly a joy to watch vicariously. Good luck on the Akiya hunting.

[@sherlockhomes9919]

Until you find out that these rural areas, houses are targetted by immigrants from vietnam, cambodia, philippines for burglary, robbery at gunpoint. Recently 2 vietnamese were finally caught for ransacking houses across nagano and other prefectures. They tied up the elderly owners while robbing the house. Imagine if you're wife or daughter were there. Then there's that filipino that robbed a supermarket in hiroshima. Then latest news on nhk is a highly organized cambodian group stealing solar panel equipment in rural ibaraka areas. More immigrants going to japan the more crimes will happen.

[@Port712]

You are not using your imagination. Have you ever thought about why young Japanese people don't live in those vacant houses? It's because it's very, very hard to live in and hard to live in. There are many rules in the countryside, and everyone lives by them. There is no consideration for individual differences, and there is no privacy. It is very inconvenient, and newcomers, even foreigners, have to give up their time and devote themselves to the people of the village. So even those who grew up in the village end up moving to the city. Although surrounded by abundant nature, relationships are complicated in the countryside, and one must absolutely listen to the orders given by the old man. If you express your opinion, you will be ostracized by the whole village. In addition to tsunamis and earthquakes, Japan is also prone to typhoons, floods, landslides, and other natural disasters. When disaster strikes, it is difficult for rescue vehicles and supplies to reach these rural areas. It takes time for them to arrive, and people die in the meantime. That's why young people don't live in these rural areas. Therefore, more and more houses become vacant, and since these vacant houses cannot be sold to Japanese people, they become cheaper, and from a foreigner's point of view, they look like a bargain sale. But these foreigners have no idea what it is like to live in the countryside.

[@toowoombacorgi6358]

@Port712 To me, it's the usual. They move away to the bright lights and attractions of the big cities. Tokyo has over 25% of Japan's population. The old are left behind, and the countryside slowly dies.

[@igaijin]

I'm one of the very few gaijin kids who grew up in rural Kochi. The mist and the fields and the mountains and the ocean and the country roads made me blink back "natsukashii" (nostalgic) tears. We lived east of Kochi on the coastal plain, and the villages are still beautiful!

[@pcoristi]

The one thing you should not compromise on when buying a house is location. You can change and modify many structural and landscape things but you can't change its location (at least not easily). We were in an old house near a babbling brook and the view was spectacular...but then a hurricane came and we watched the brook turn into a raging torrent and pass the 100 year high water mark. When we finally bought a house we went for elevation...and have since learned that high winds are a problem as are the higher accumulations of snow in winter... Nothing is perfect but these things do matter...especially as you get older. Good luck and take your time ❤

[@anydaynow01]

Yep this was some of the best advice my dad gave me. Buy in the nicest neighborhood that I could afford!

[@raquelmota14]

Exactly. Seeing those houses in the foot of sloopes in such a humid places that have typoons gave me anxiet. Same thing with living near rivers

[@Mltemple8333]

FYI Hydrangea plants have strong, deep root systems and can be used to stop or slow erosion on slopes if needed. Used extensively in the Azores for exactly this reason.

[@toowoombacorgi6358]

Thanks for taking us along ❤

[@markwatson6757]

I’m the SECOND Toowoomba person to comment? I’m visiting their region at the moment - if you haven’t already, go have a look.

[@toowoombacorgi6358]

@@markwatson6757 Enjoy your trip and let me know how it went.

[@davidanalyst671]

TokyoLama youtuber tells me that most Akiya are not listed. They are just sitting there because the kids moved to a city and the parent passed, and the kids just straight abandoned or forgot about the houses. He says to find the abandoned house first. Then talk to neighbors

[@ChienVu-bb2rw]

Thương !❤❤❤

[@menmentantan5591]

Thats true. I am a Japanese 60 Years Old, Living in Tokyo Area. Recently I sold a House as Parents passed away and Three years is a limit to avoid TAX IN Japan, Scrap and Build is the basic policy despite historic rare house. So I had to pay US$ 20,000 to break the old house and flat land could be sold with US$210,000

[@xkowaiixtora6484]

you are my comfort channel

[@Weesperbuurt]

The cutting is of a chrysanthemum symbolized in the Imperial Seal of Japan. I would have rooted it in a pot of soil or a glass of water before planting.

[@geruto17760]

Interesting, I always thought the Paulownia was the official seal.

[@kazuwilliams5222]

I get to retire soon and will move to Japan. I can't wait to have a nice quiet peaceful place with a vegetable garden. Your videos always bring smile to my face.

[@robot_collective]

I also had the idea to spend my retirement years in Japan. How do you get a permanent visa there as a foreigner, is that so easy?

[@kazuwilliams5222]

@@robot_collective Depends on your situation: family, education, etc. For my situation, my parent is a Japanese national so it's very easy. Essentially, after living there for a year, I get permanent residency.

[@ly7712]

your videos are so relaxing, i click on them as soon as you upload!! love what you’re doing 💕

[@SephirothinLEGO]

you gotta sprint for that rest and relaxation amirite?

[@rolande6342]

I love your videos. I do wish they were longer and more frequent. But they do take a long of work to produce so totally understand. The anticipation makes your content that more valuable.

[@maigomika]

Thank you for your kind words! Yes, this video was a little short... but more coming your way!

[@markwatson6757]

I had the pleasure of meeting Pancake today! Well done guys, and all the best with your house hunting. You live in such a wonderful part of the world.

[@peter.24.7]

Based on the leaves of the 'Mystery Cutting' I'm willing to bet that is a chrysanthemum. Hope it takes. Look forward to seeing what happens.

[@hondameister2656]

Looks like chrysanthemum to me too, which blossoms in fall, could be many colors, one of my favorite flowers

[@maigomika]

Thanks! I look forward to it blooming so we can find out what color we got!

[@Nokkiwow]

I'm excited to see what kind of house you guys find for yourselves! And just a little tip for the cuttings: you should propagate them in a glass of water before planting them in soil. Allowing them to grow roots before they're planted gives them a better chance of surviving and becoming strong, healthy plants ^^

[@MrRolandMichel]

Had the same thought, as I watched her put that cutting into the soil... without any roots. But who knows, it might just "take".

[@ceruleanroses]

I recognized the plant as a Chrysanthemum. There’s no need, they are so easy to just plunk in soil and grow!! 🌼 As long as it doesn’t dry out it will be fine 😙

[@CheyenneMeckes]

I have been here from your first video and I have to say I have never enjoyed a channel so much. Every single video is a masterpiece and is just what I need. Thank you Mika, Jesse, and of course Pancake

[@maigomika]

Thank you for sticking with us since the beginning!

[@StormTroopaKoopa]

Some of the views within those neighborhoods are devastatingly beautiful.

[@MobileAssassin5]

Can’t wait for the future “new akiya house renovations “ video

[@seunary]

It's so cool that you are searching for a house of your own ! I wish you the best 🎉

[@kerri01]

Tokyo Llama has been working on a restoration project. He is really handy and uses a combination of traditional and western techniques in his work. He might be a good connection to make. I really enjoy both your channels.

[@judithwalker8682]

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh ! What beautiful houses ! Thank you for showing other houses ! I hope your flowers , trees and bushes bloom soon . I look forward to see them in all their glory ! Best wishes from the U.S. ! 😊. ❤

[@dhruv2985]

The scenery while you were driving was amazing. I would love a Lofi style video of a window-side view in a car.

[@emilys3638]

YES, I've been hoping she would make a video purely composed of long shots of scenery, perhaps with very subtle quiet music, but nothing too distracting. The little clips of rural scenery are so wonderful, and for me they are never long enough! I would even watch a video with just one viewpoint for several minutes, because I'm sure it would be captivating...

[@maigomika]

You might be getting something kind of like that soon 😉

[@dhruv2985]

@@maigomika LETS GOOO😆

[@lisakilmer2667]

Wow, so many of those houses are exceptionally beautiful.

[@GavinKohAquascaping]

Hello from Victoria BC! I really enjoyed your well paced and nicely edited video showcasing life in the Japanese country side.

[@cutiehoru]

I always look forward to a new video! I love seeing this side of Japan! You don't see it very often~ Thank you for all the hard work, Mika and Jesse (and Pancake!)

[@bigdoggy6650]

Your voice and narration is perfect and also,NISSAN CUBE FOR LIFE!

[@Disappointed739]

@6:40 The mystery flower appears to be a "kiku", or a chrysanthemum: Shikoku gardens have literally hundreds of varieties, from small multi-bloomers to rather tall single bloom plants that must be supported. When it takes, be sure to ask how tall it is, and whether it will need a support...

[@maigomika]

Will do, thanks!

[@dreamersmask]

I love the quiet ambiance of your videos.

[@burban83]

I enjoyed seeing Pancake.

[@harfordbalazuela8675]

Japan is a perfect place for introverts like me ❤

[@Prolificvids5]

So beautiful in Japan , our planet is so beautiful in so many many places

[@sailcat662]

I really appreciate how you are sharing your life with us, especially those of us who would dream of living and retiring in Japan some day

[@tiffy623]

If and when you do move to another home, I’m certain your neighbors will miss you dearly. I can see that your family have grown a deep bond with the community. I’ve been following since your first video and watching your efforts to engage and connect with the neighbors, community, Japanese culture has been delightful. Something as simple and small as caring for the garden and wanting to restore it to its former glory shows you care about your community.

[@maigomika]

We don't think we will stray too far from this area, so hopefully, we can continue to keep our ties with this community. 🥰

[@robertgulfshores4463]

Good luck! Love these videos. It's beautiful there. No hurry ... 10,000,000 abandoned homes and growing daily. You will find the right one. Then we will get the video!

[@raincleavers]

I love your videos! Thank you for giving us a glimpse into your life in Japan.

[@andreibnu]

I'm happy to hear that you're thinking about buying an "akiya" house in Japan. I hope you find a perfect place and keep producing these amazing videos.

[@anydaynow01]

This is great you're taking the plunge, and I wish you happiness in your decision, just remember that good location and school systems are key to great resale values!

[@lindastarzenski8770]

Wishing I was more adventurous when young and did something like this. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@thims1961]

Oh Cool! Gecko's So does Pancake supervise all gardening

[@brauninslee5245]

The shot at 1:07 is seriously so cool and beautiful it’s my fav from your whole channel! Good luck searching!

[@judiehavard4903]

The chrysanthemum flowers are great. And will reseed them selves and spread. The verbeena is another. And would look great spilling over the rock edge. And a moss rose.😊

[@judiehavard4903]

Japan has always been the one place I wanted to visit.😊

[@juveniledavidi1183]

NO matter how many times I see the wooden structures in Japan, I simply just could not help saying to myself < what a gorgeous piece of art !> and recently I am lucky enough to bump into one of the only few Japanese in my area in regional Australia, he seems pretty positive hearing my intention of getting an Akiya in rural Japan and would love to help me on my relocating plan. Thank you for your videos, and Canada has been one of my favourite countries so far as well, people there are just so annoyingly friendly. Take good care of yourself, particularly thank you for spearheading for the rest of us!

[@Smokejumper92]

A adore this tiny glimpse of life in the Japanese countryside

[@lunalui]

Enjoy the process of searching! I hope you'll find a gem of a house.

[@Satcheler-J-dq8xv]

How exciting to be looking for an akiya! Beautiful. Fingers crossed that you find something you love. 💕

[@NatsukiiChan]

I loved the third akiya house! ❤ I hope it is still available for you guys haha ^-^ Amazing video as always, I'm so happy when I see you upload something new. Greetings from Spain!😊

[@ericflexyourhead6426]

Pancake! 😍

[@judiehavard4903]

Everyone has their own 8:23 esthetics for a home. I tend to love homes with trees in areas that have a woodsy feel to it. So my favorite was the first house that was shown. Also liked the different levels of rock walls around it. Just wouldnt want to be somewhere that may have mud or rock slides.😊

[@frankfarklesberry]

Isn't it funny when something like searching for the ideal house is fun and daunting at the same time? Each property contains its own setting of variables. Oh to be young again! You 3 guys are adorable!

[@elementjoe]

Good luck! Nothing feels better than finding the perfect home!

[@martinkayne9675]

Love, Love, Love these posts! Keep 'em Coming...Please. Marty in New Jersey.

[@wesleyhunter2834]

I lived in Okinawa for 2 years. Best wishes with your adventure.

[@ajadrew]

I could easily spend the rest of my life driving around Japan's Mountain villages!!

[@Sir.Endipity]

This is timely for me since I have been contemplating on searching one myself. Just want you guys to know you have great content. Don't let anyone put you down, not even life. Hope you make the best of what you have and make happiness. Cause you certainly are helping people with your content. 🙇‍♂️

[@herecia]

Your very own Totoro adventure!

[@cathyholt5215]

How exciting! Anxious to take this journey with you. Thank you for sharing this interesting lifestyle.

[@Trisvangough]

I love watching these videos , they are great inspiration for people interested in finding a way to live in japan and see the potential of living in rural japan, can’t wait for the next one!

[@nessazee]

Yay! Excited you are looking to continue your time in the Japanese countryside. I’ve enjoyed following your adventures so much 😊

[@qtdcanada]

Very interesting that akiya (abandoned houses) in Japan still look nice, allowing for overgrown plants & garden, despite years of being unoccupied! In many countries, my guess would be that there would be squatters illegally taking them over. Maybe the remaining (few) elders in the village/hamlet keep an eye out for strangers? Beautiful scenery in Japan's countryside.

[@fmskreg7424]

lovely and beautiful countryside

[@user805.]

honestly my favourite channel on youtube

[@ArtyCollectz]

These videos are so wonderful, some of my favorites on YT. Thanks for sharing. 🙏🏻

[@fl0wELXR]

your videos are beautiful, thanks for making them. what a dream!

[@melioss_6867]

I'm also from Canada, Québec specifically and god the things I'd do to live that exact lifestyle, you guys are so lucky!

[@bizarrejourneys]

This is so well filmed. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@Cantonlope]

Always on the lookout for new maigomika videos! Your videos strangely remind me of the songs by Ichiko Aoba

[@maigomika]

What a compliment!

[@TobiasKonrath]

I’m so glad i found your channel - your videos are just magical! All the best from Thailand!!

[@susanspence3029]

Very exciting to purchase your own house. Fingers crossed you find a hidden gem.

[@LolaRennt-l3q]

Your videos are wonderful! Just watching everything and looking forward to everything coming up next. And totally echoing the wish for longer videos! Truly wonderful ❤️ Good luck on finding your new house soon!

[@jaydee4697]

As always, thank you for sharing. It's always lovely to see what you three have been up to; hope your search for a akiya house goes well.

[@marteme2273]

So excited for the next step in your journey❤

[@co_dy_be_st]

I hope to one day soon move out of Canada currently learning Nihongo にほんご and other skills at a break neck pace that could help me in life as a 30 year old I don't want to be stuck in a place or situation that is negative I would prefer to live life to the fullest.

[@elisekuby2009]

Wishing you much joy in your househunting adventure and even more when you have found the right one. I adore Japan and wish I were a little younger; I would then be able to realize my dream. The gift plant from your neighbour is a Chrysanthemum - or so the leaf shape indicated.

[@elizathepainter8604]

Wow all those houses were so beautiful! Good luck! Beautiful garden back home as well :)

[@erics667]

Mystery flower leaves look like Chrysanthemums? Good luck.

[@maigomika]

Thanks!

[@McLOVIN_456]

Love to see more of your vlogs!

[@two_feral_gardeners]

How exciting for you, looking for your own akiya. We will continue to watch with great interest. As for your cutting I agree with many others that it is a chrysanthemum. The garden is coming along very well indeed.😊

[@EleanorVassilis]

Thank YOU for yet another fantastic video 😊 good luck with the house hunting x

[@robertbrewer2190]

I would have a very difficult time in passing on the boulder garden at 0:11. A true monument and seen from many rooms! Best luck!

[@briankavanagh7191]

Fab video, good luck with your search.

[@Scottstimo]

This would make for a great episode of House Hunters International

[@maigomika]

HA. Should I apply to be on the show? 🤣

[@missymarplemysterylover]

Wish you well on your search. Love watching your channel!

[@CarlosRodriguez-dd4sb]

Good luck as you look for you new home. While I've not lived in Japan, I expect some of the same things hold true - remember, bigger houses usually mean bigger expenses. I still shudder at the electric bill in my Florida home.

[@shadow111d]

awww i love the house your in now but good luck on finding you own!

[@MrRolandMichel]

Well, this is exciting! Best of luck on your search, and it would probably be best if you allowed Pancake to have final say on your new home, because, you know.

[@maigomika]

You know we won't buy anything without Pancake's final approval. 🤣

[@h42cal31]

Good luck on your search for a new home!

[@skyfish3826]

This was a masterful video.

[@chinoyhealingfoodstravels8888]

Greetings from Redondo Beach 🇺🇸. Beautiful place. Nice work on this video. Cheers 🥂

[@danzafrir2900]

Loved house #3!

[@雪崩雪ん子]

metoo😊

[@codeme8098]

thanks for sharing us your life its really inspiring 😊

[@tcpip9999]

Wonderful

[@Victoriaghh]

Props to you guys. I'm canadian as well, and just stumbled onto your channel!

[@tomeksyta3360]

Jej książka "Heretyczka" jest super! Bardzo polecam...

[@zeppelin.1874_]

Watching right now this your video, I got need to go there... I watching and seeking for places worlwide - the most islands and archipelagos to move (relocate) there on some quiet, peaceful, tranquil, remote place... I live in an small country Montenegro by name, where now is a tourism madness... I don’t recognize my country any more... Greetings from Montenegro!

[@tinycotswoldcottage]

That was really interesting. Thank you

[@k_redacted5353]

I saw your insta post about the video lighting, can confirm it looks great!!

[@markames3688]

Great story and best of luck.

[@jrae5085]

Make sure the plant gift is not mugwort (Artemisia sp.) Or if it is, make sure you plant in a way that allows you to control it. Otherwise it can take over very rapidly by rhizome proliferation underground. It is a medicinal herb in Asia and so is `viewed as beneficial but its growth tendencies should be kept in mind.

[@onotomo8103]

Please select a house located at an elevation of 100 meters or higher and avoid a landslide area by checking the Hazard map issued by the local government. A house near a shrine is also a good location. This is because shrines are not built in areas where disasters have occurred in the past or where disasters are likely to occur. As you probably know, a gigantic earthquake and gigantic Tsunami have been foreseen within two decades in the Shikoku area especially the area that faces the Pacific Ocean. Please check out the Nankai Trough Earthquake that has been occurring every in a hundred years. When renovating your home, I recommend that you make earthquake-resistant modifications to your bedroom and other rooms in your home that you can evacuate to, as well as your exit route. Good luck!

[@michaelcaicedo5822]

bonito lugar