Why central Japan?

Are you considering purchasing a property in Japan? Have you looked at the Chubu region?

Why we think this is one of the best regions to focus your akiya search.

Central Japan (or Chubu in Japanese) covers the area stretching between Tokyo and Osaka and up to the Japan Sea. While it varies a bit depending on who you talk to, the core prefectures are Aichi, Gifu, Mie, Nagano and Fukui. Aichi and Mie face towards the Pacific Ocean, while Fukui faces the Sea of Japan. Gifu and Nagano are landlocked and mountainous. So why do we think that Chubu is one of the best areas to live in Japan?

Transport: The central Japan area is extremely well serviced with transport options.

Chubu International "Centrair": This airport just south of Nagoya city has direct international flights to multiple destinations, as well as a multitude of connecting flights to Tokyo, Osaka and all other major airports in Japan.

Shinkansen: The Chuo shinkansen travels through Chubu, with stops in Nagoya and Gifu, making travel to and from Osaka or Tokyo a breeze. The Hokuriku shinkansen travels from Fukui to Nagano, to connect to the Joetsu shinkansen for travel to Tokyo.

Local trains: the entire region is criss-crossed with local trains in an integrated network. Most lines run express trains between major stations, with local trains stopping at every stop. Expressways: there is an extensive expressway network throughout the Chubu region that runs both east-west and north-south. Don't own a car? No problem, expressway buses offer a fast and comfortable mode of travel.

Ferries: Often ignored by foreign travellers, long distance ferries are a great way to travel around Japan. From around Nagoya (Ise Bay) long distance ferries travel as far north as Sendai and south to Kyushu and even to Korea. From Tsuruga (Fukui) ferries travel up the Sea of Japan coast to Hokkaido.

Culture

Here we think is one of the big differences. Compared to the areas close to the major metropolises, the Chubu region has maintained a lot of its traditional culture. It is also a lot less heavily touristed compared to big name sites like Kyoto or Osaka. People are a lot more open and friendly, and extremely proud of their heritage and history. Chubu is the home of the Tokugawa clan, whose famous leader Ieyasu was the first shogun to unite all of Japan under one banner.

Cost

Compared to areas around Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe or Tokyo/Yokohama, the Chubu region definitely brings you more bang for your yen. Properties of a similar size and condition can be 50% or more less than those areas. At the same time all of the trades required to maintain and renovate a property are also significantly cheaper. The cost benefit of the Chubu region can be a significant bonus.

From the Mountains to the Sea to the Shopping Centers.

Living in Chubu, this weekend I can be camping at a great beach with good fishing, excellent seafood and coastal hotsprings. Next weekend I can be in the depths of the mountains, whether it be for a day stroll or a 3 day expedition, with excellent mountain food and natural hot springs dotted on the side of mountain. The following weekend I can be in Nagoya with a selection of great restaurants, massive shopping malls and bars and nightclubs if the need arises.

Chubu region really has it all. Come check it out.