Japan Regional Living Guide

Dramatic mountain scenery, low property prices, and tight-knit rural communities. Cold winters but stunning summers.

Japan's most popular akiya destination. Alpine climate, fresh water, excellent access to Tokyo (1.5hr by shinkansen).

Overlooked and deeply traditional. Ancient shrines, sand dunes, and some of Japan's cheapest real estate.

Sacred mountain trails, warm climate, and stunning coastal fishing villages. UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes.

The 88-temple pilgrimage island. Warm climate, mandarin orchards, and one of Japan's most welcoming foreign communities.

Onsen everywhere, subtropical south, active volcanoes, and an emerging foreign buyer market in Aso and Beppu.