Empty homes in oversupply

In provincial Okutama, a tranquil, uneven town in the north-western valleys of Tokyo prefecture two hours from the capital, akiya are in oversupply.

A program to make use of the akiya donated by heirs who preferred to give away homes rather than leave them vacant was initiated four years ago by the Youth Revitalization Department of Okutama Council.

Tenants who take on an akiya can get the title to the property and get their fees back after paying a small monthly fee for 15 years.