The Ultimate Lifestyle Investment: Nature, Farming, and Serenity in Joetsu
Nestled in the scenic heartland of Niigata Prefecture, this expansive property offers a unique opportunity for investors and those seeking a tranquil lifestyle change. Priced at approximately $21,071 (based on “the price of the house in JPY” at 1 USD = 140; Notary fees, processing, and taxes are not included.), this offering includes a traditional two-story Japanese home set upon a vast 36,641 m² (approx. 9 acres) of land, presenting limitless potential for development, agriculture, or a private nature retreat.
The home itself is a classic 3DK layout, featuring several traditional tatami rooms that exude authentic Japanese charm. While the year of construction is unknown, the property has been maintained and is equipped with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, a system kitchen, two toilets, and a monitor intercom system. A standout feature is the rustic, wood-fired bathtub—a rare find that offers a deeply relaxing and traditional bathing experience.
For the international investor, this property is a gateway to Japan’s famed “snow country.” It is strategically located just a 15-minute drive from the Cupid Valley Ski Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The greater Joetsu area is a hub for outdoor recreation, boasting numerous ski resorts like the extensive Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort. Beyond skiing, the region is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Within a 45-minute drive, you can explore the historic Takada Castle Site Park, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms, or the ruins of Kasugayama Castle, once home to the powerful warlord Uesugi Kenshin. The beautiful Sea of Japan coast is also easily accessible for summer excursions.
The area is dotted with renowned onsen (hot springs), such as Matsunoyama Onsen, known as one of Japan’s three great medicinal hot springs, offering therapeutic relaxation. This makes the property an excellent candidate for a vacation rental, a wellness retreat, or a base for year-round tourism.
Logistically, the property is well-positioned. It is approximately a 40-minute drive to the Joetsu city center and about a 2-hour drive to Niigata Airport (KIJ), providing international access. The vast plot of land, which includes forests and arable areas, offers significant appeal for those interested in hobby farming, self-sustainability, or simply owning a large piece of Japan’s beautiful countryside. This is more than just a house; it’s an investment in a lifestyle and a foothold in a region celebrated for its nature, culture, and recreational opportunities.
Description:
◾️First Floor: The ground floor is designed for both daily living and entertaining. It features a welcoming entrance (Genkan) with a dedicated shoe closet, a kitchen/dining area (Daidokoro), a separate bathroom and WC, and four versatile Japanese-style rooms. These include two large 10-tatami mat rooms (approx. 16 m² / 172 ft² each) that can be combined for larger gatherings, a 6-tatami living room (Ima), and a 6-tatami front room (Zenshitsu). The floor is rich with storage, including multiple closets (Oshiire), a pantry (Nando), and under-stair storage. ◾️Second Floor: The upper floor provides a more private space. It consists of a 7.5-tatami mat bedroom (Shinshitsu) (approx. 12 m² / 130 ft²), a large 4.8-tatami mat storage room (Nando), and extensive attic space (Koya-ura), offering abundant storage solutions.
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