The Rising Trend of Akiya Homes

Japan is facing an unprecedented issue with nearly nine million abandoned homes, known as 'akiya.' This situation has emerged from a combination of an aging and shrinking population, which has led to many homes being vacated and left in disrepair. Urbanization and the migration of younger individuals to major cities exacerbate the issue, leaving rural areas with dwindling populations and increasing numbers of abandoned properties. The unique depreciation of homes in Japan, where their value decreases significantly over time, creates a landscape where even homes left to heirs become burdensome liabilities rather than assets.