A country like a second planet has nine million empty houses: some sell for less than one euro

Japan is grappling with a substantial surplus of vacant homes, with official figures indicating around nine million empty properties nationwide. This number represents a significant 13.8% of the country's entire housing stock, presenting a unique demographic and economic challenge.

These vacant houses, often referred to as 'akiya', are a growing concern, particularly in rural areas and depopulating towns. Factors contributing to this phenomenon include an aging population, declining birth rates, and a migration of younger generations to urban centers. As a result, many properties are left unoccupied and fall into disrepair.

The situation has reached such extremes that some of these abandoned homes are being offered for sale at astonishingly low prices. Reports indicate that certain properties are being sold for less than one euro, underscoring the severe devaluation of real estate in these affected regions. This trend poses questions about property ownership, urban planning, and the future of Japan's housing market.