Description
Unbeatable Value: Historic Home near UNESCO World Heritage Miyajima
Step back in time and seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Japanese history. This magnificent 123-year-old kominka (traditional Japanese house) in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, is offered for an astonishing price of approximately $35,714 (based on 5,000,000 JPY at 1 USD = 140; purchase costs not included). This is not just a property; it is a cultural artifact and an incredible investment canvas.
Built in 1902, this two-story wooden house boasts a vast 159 m² (approx. 1,711 ft²) of floor space on a substantial 523 m² (approx. 5,631 ft²) lot. The 9DK layout includes five traditional tatami rooms, a Western-style room, and a dining/kitchen area, offering immense flexibility for use as a large family home, a multi-generational residence, or a commercial venture. The property also includes parking for two cars and a separate warehouse, adding significant practical value. While it retains its historic charm, it has been updated with an IH induction cooktop and an energy-saving water heater.
For International Investors:
This property is a dream asset. Kominka are in high demand among international tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences. Its sprawling layout is perfectly suited for conversion into a boutique guesthouse, a traditional ryokan-style inn, or a highly profitable Airbnb that could command premium rates. The exceptionally low acquisition cost drastically reduces financial risk and opens the door to immense potential returns on investment after renovation. Its location, close to world-famous landmarks, ensures a steady stream of potential guests.
Unbeatable Location & Accessibility:
The property’s true value is amplified by its strategic location. It offers a tranquil, residential setting while being incredibly connected to major attractions and transport hubs.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: The iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is just a 40-minute drive to the ferry port.
- Iconic Landmarks: Japan’s most famous arched bridge, the Kintai Bridge, and the magnificent Iwakuni Castle are a mere 15-minute drive away.
- City & Airport Access: The property is an 8-minute drive from the Iwakuni Interchange for easy highway travel. Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport (IWK), with flights to Tokyo, is only 20 minutes away, providing fantastic access for international and domestic visitors. The city of Hiroshima is also easily accessible for day trips.
While this historic home requires some renovation and seismic upgrades to meet modern standards, it represents a blank slate for you to restore its glory and create a truly unique and valuable asset. This is your chance to own not just a house, but a legacy in one of Japan’s most beautiful and historic regions.
Details
AJ250053
9
1
159 m²
523 m²
2
1902
Floor Plans
Residential Floor Layout
Description:
Upon entering, the ground floor opens into a 6.5-mat Western-style room and a central 7.5-mat dining kitchen that acts as the home's hub. From there, a hallway leads to the main living quarters: a grand, flexible wing of four interconnected tatami rooms (two 6-mat and two 4.5-mat), which can be opened to create one vast space for entertaining. This traditional area is bordered by a classic, sunlit engawa (veranda) and served by a conveniently located bathroom, washbasin, and separate toilet at the rear. The second floor offers a more private retreat, featuring three additional Japanese-style rooms—two spacious 6-mat rooms and a cozy 3-mat room ideal for a study—with ample storage closets thoughtfully integrated throughout both levels of the home.
9
Features
Additional details
- Layout: 9 rooms + Dining & Kitchen
- Structure: Wooden, 2-stories
- Building Area: 159 m² (1,711 ft²)
- Land Area: 523 m² (5,631 ft²)
- Nearest Station: 2-minutes walk from Oze Bus Stop / 7 min drive to Waki Station
- Parking: Space for 2 or more cars
- Features & Equipment:
- Utilities: Electricity, Hot Water, Septic Tank
- Orientation: Southeast-facing with excellent sunlight
- Tags / Highlights: Over 120 years old, Large lot, Suitable for two generations, Excellent location near Iwakuni IC, Renovation potential
Address
- Address 245 Oze, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi
- City Iwakuni City
- State/county Yamaguchi
- Zip/Postal Code 741-0091
- Area Oze
- Country Japan
