Restoring the Dream: A Gen X Couple’s Journey with a Japanese Akiya

Introduction to the Akiya Adventure

Deborah and Jason Brawn, an enthusiastic couple from Brisbane, Australia, embarked on an exciting journey in 2023 by purchasing an abandoned house in rural Japan. The house, known as an akiya, cost the couple a mere $23,000 and represents a central part of their retirement plans. Their goal? To restore it to its former glory while immersing themselves in the local Japanese community.

A Love Affair with Japan

The couple’s fascination with Japan was deeply rooted in their personal history. Deborah first connected with the country in the ’90s through her university studies in the Japanese language. This affinity was further cemented by her five-year stay in Tokyo, where she worked as an English teacher.

During the pandemic, Deborah and Jason discovered the world of akiya, drawn in by their love for Japanese culture and architecture. The term, which signifies “abandoned house” in Japanese, coupled with their passion for traditional lifestyles and crafts, made purchasing an akiya an irresistible prospect.

The Quest for the Perfect Akiya

The Brawns devoted significant time to research, joining online communities and exchanging insights with like-minded individuals. They sought a traditional Japanese home, nestled closely with nature outside bustling cityscapes. In April 2023, during a six-week sojourn in Japan, they finally discovered an akiya in Mitocho near Masuda city. A grand structure dating back to 1868, the property was once part of a sake brewery.

An Exciting New Chapter

Akiya hunting wasn’t just about aesthetics for the Brawns; it was a step toward fulfilling their post-retirement dream. After purchasing the seven-bedroom property and planning their initial renovations, they prepared for the cultural and logistical challenges of integrating into a rural Japanese community.

Breathing New Life into the Akiya

• The couple began their restoration by tidying up the property’s garden, revitalizing the driveway, and modernizing the kitchen and bathroom.
• True to their passion, each element was chosen to respect the house’s historical integrity while ensuring practical modern comforts.

Despite the project’s challenges, such as managing local wildlife and overcoming language barriers, Deborah, with her fluency in Japanese, added immense value to their endeavor.

Commitment to Community

Integrating into the local community was pivotal for Deborah and Jason, highlighting a broader responsibility that comes with owning an akiya. Establishing relationships with neighbors and participating actively in neighborhood associations underscored the importance of belonging in their new environment.

The Role and Challenges of Akiya Ownership

Owning an akiya in Japan extends beyond the realms of real estate investment. Local governments often prioritize prospective buyers who show a commitment to living and contributing to the community. For Deborah and Jason, this meant becoming active members and taking part in local initiatives, such as community clean-ups and cultural events.

While the affordability of purchasing an akiya appeals to many, buyers must consider renovation costs and the dedication needed to upkeep such properties.

The Dream for the Future

For now, Deborah and Jason continue to divide their time between Australia and Japan. Their aim remains to fully retire within the next five to eight years, at which point they hope to devote themselves entirely to their beloved Japanese home.

In the interim, they document their restoration progress on their YouTube channel, showcasing the transformation of the akiya and sharing their unique cross-cultural journey with a global audience.

Conclusion

The Brawns’ project reflects more than just an architectural restoration; it signifies a significant cultural crossover and deeper personal fulfillment. Becoming an integral part of the community, they demonstrate how true homeownership in Japan entails a meaningful engagement with diversity and tradition.

Jason and Deborah inspire others to pursue their dreams and embrace both the challenges and rewards of preserving historical homes in foreign lands.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-x-couple-bought-abandoned-house-japan-akiya-restoration-retirement-2024-12