001 My First Fukuoka Finds

January 3, 2026 | The Zen Times - Your weekly dose of akiya zen-lightenment

Happy New Year! This week marks the beginning of my akiya hunting journey right here in Kyushu. I spent my time exploring listings across Fukuoka and the Chikuho region, discovering everything from charming traditional homes with character to spacious countryside retreats. Whether you’re dreaming of restoring a vintage kominka or settling into rural tranquility, there’s something special in this week’s finds.

This week’s finds:

• 🏠 3 properties across Fukuoka Prefecture

• 💰 Price range: ¥2,800,000 - ¥4,500,000

• ⭐ Featured walkthrough: Coming soon! (Still coordinating my first property visit)

Let’s dive in!

Location: Suehiro-cho, Yahata Higashi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
Price: ¥2,800,000
Size: 304㎡ land / 143㎡ building
Year Built: 1970 (築56年)

At a Glance: This traditional kominka sits on elevated land with natural privacy so no peeking pedestrians here! The six-room layout is all tatami, all charm, giving you that authentic old-Japan atmosphere. It’s been updated with an IH cooking system, and the listing describes the interior as having “趣” (tasteful character), which is real estate speak for “this place has a soul.”

Why It Caught My Eye: At under ¥3 million for a 6DK with this much space and character? That’s the kind of deal that makes you stop scrolling. Plus, the elevated position means you’re literally looking down on the neighborhood, which feels both practical and slightly majestic.

The Reality Check: Built in 1970, so expect some renovation needs. The area is about a 22-minute walk from Space World Station (RIP to the actual Space World theme park that closed in 2017). You’ll need a car for daily convenience, and older homes like this often come with quirks… think drafty winters and potential plumbing adventures.

Perfect For: DIY enthusiasts who dream of restoring a traditional Japanese home, artists seeking inspiring spaces with character, or anyone who gets misty-eyed watching renovation shows.

📍 Listing: https://app.akiya-mart.com/listing/41575984

Location: Hoshii, Tagawa City, Fukuoka
Price: ¥4,000,000
Size: 591㎡ land / 121㎡ building
Year Built: 1987 (築39年)

At a Glance: A single-story home on a generous plot in rural Tagawa. With a 10-mat LDK and four Japanese-style rooms, this flat, accessible layout is perfect for easy living. The property sits on high ground and comes with parking. Note: it uses a septic system rather than city sewage, but this is completely normal for countryside properties in Japan.

Why It Caught My Eye: That land size! Nearly 600 square meters gives you room to garden, build a workshop, or just enjoy the space. The single-story design is rare and practical, especially for families with young kids or anyone thinking long-term about mobility. Plus, the high plateau location likely means excellent views.

The Reality Check: You’re in proper countryside here; Tagawa isn’t a quick commute to anywhere urban. The septic system means occasional pumping costs, and being from 1987, expect some updating needed. But that’s also why it’s affordable and comes with so much land.

Perfect For: Remote workers who can live anywhere, families wanting space and safety for kids, retirees seeking quiet countryside living, or gardening enthusiasts who need LAND.

📍 Listing: https://app.akiya-mart.com/listing/203994410

Location: Ikata, Fukuchi Town, Tagawa District, Fukuoka
Price: ¥4,500,000
Size: 460㎡ land / 184㎡ building (2 floors)
Year Built: 1984 (築42年)

At a Glance: The biggest property of the bunch! This two-story home is surrounded by nature and currently occupied (always a good sign). With parking for THREE vehicles and a spacious 5DK layout, you’re getting serious square footage for under ¥5 million. The listing specifically highlights the “自然豊かな静かな環境” nature-rich, quiet environment.

Why It Caught My Eye: 184 square meters of living space is substantial, and that three-car parking situation? Perfect if you’re bringing vehicles, equipment, or just like having options. The fact that it’s currently occupied suggests it’s in livable condition, which takes some pressure off immediate renovation needs.

The Reality Check: Like Property #2, this uses propane gas and septic system. The location is quite remote with a 23 minutes walk to the nearest station, and that station isn’t exactly bustling. The surrounding nature is beautiful but can mean wildlife visitors and seasonal challenges (hello, bugs and humidity).

Perfect For: Families needing space and multiple vehicles, makers/artists wanting workshop space, nature lovers who don’t mind rural isolation, or anyone wanting a substantial home without Tokyo/Fukuoka prices.

📍 Listing: https://app.akiya-mart.com/listing/249473457

This week, I’m...

Working on building connections with real estate agents and property owners to coordinate in-person visits. As someone still developing my Japanese language skills, navigating the logistics is part of the adventure! For now, I’m doing deep dives via Google Maps street view, researching neighborhoods, and learning the ins and outs of the akiya search process.

When I do get boots on the ground at a property, you’ll be the first to know. Until then, I’m gathering intel and sharing what I find online.

This week: Screenshots from property listings as I build my photography portfolio

The elevated entrance of the Suehiro-cho property, notice how the land sits higher than the street level, creating some natural privacy.

I’d love to hear from you:

• Are you searching for akiya too? What’s your dream property like?

• Have tips for connecting with Japanese real estate agents or navigating the process with limited Japanese?

• Questions about these properties or the search process?

Drop a comment below!

💋 Have an a-ZEN-ing week ahead! 🏡✨

Stay curious, stay zen,
The Zen Times

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