"Akiya" (空き家) — vacant homes — draw enormous interest from overseas buyers. But the headline akiya rate is widely misunderstood. This guide explains exactly what Japan's vacancy statistics count, using the 2023 Housing and Land Survey, and how to read the rates shown on this site.
What the vacancy (akiya) rate counts
The vacancy rate is vacant dwellings divided by total dwellings, from the Statistics Bureau's Housing and Land Survey (latest: 2023). Crucially, the standard 'vacant homes' total includes secondary homes (e.g. vacation homes), as well as units for rent or sale. That is why resort and tourist areas such as Karuizawa, Nasu and Atami post very high vacancy rates that have little to do with abandoned rural houses.
If you are specifically interested in long-term empty houses, the relevant sub-category is 'other vacant homes' (excluding for-rent, for-sale and secondary homes). Where available it is a better proxy for the akiya phenomenon the English-language press describes.
Why a high rate is not automatically an opportunity
A high vacancy rate can reflect a weak local rental market, an aging owner base, or simply a high concentration of holiday homes. None of these guarantees a cheap, habitable, well-located house. Cross-reference the vacancy rate with population trend, net migration and rent level before drawing conclusions.
This guide explains how to read official statistics and does not constitute legal, tax or investment advice. For decisions on purchasing property in Japan, consult a qualified professional.
Reading the akiya rate on this site
Every municipality page shows the akiya (vacancy) rate next to the national average (13.8% in 2023). The akiya rate ranking lets you compare all municipalities — but remember the secondary-home caveat when you see resort towns at the top.
Explore the data
FAQ
- Does a high akiya rate mean many cheap houses for sale?
- Not necessarily. The standard rate includes vacation homes and units already for rent or sale, so it overstates the number of abandoned, purchasable houses — especially in resort areas.
- What is the national akiya rate?
- Around 13.8% in the 2023 Housing and Land Survey, though definitions and sub-categories matter — see the guide above.
- Where can I find the long-term-empty subset?
- The 'other vacant homes' category (excluding for-rent, for-sale and secondary homes) is the closest proxy; availability varies by municipality.
Operator and full source list: About chiiki-data.