A Historic Meiji-Era Kominka in Shimane's Okuizumo Region
This property is a historic kominka (traditional Japanese house) with a rich heritage, originally built in 1887 (Meiji 14). The seller, whose late wife's family owned the home, wishes to pass it on to someone with an interest in architecture and a desire to preserve the local environment of Okuizumo Town. The house features beams made from 100-year-old timber, and the original kamado (wood-fired stove) remains intact, though gas is also available for use. The property has undergone some renovations over time, including an update to the toilet to a flush system in 1998 (Heisei 10). The Buddhist altar, finished in gold leaf lacquer, is noted as a piece that could also serve as interior decor. The seller acknowledges that some parts may have deteriorated as they have not seen the property in many years. It is currently managed under a furusato nozei (hometown tax) vacant house management program.
The property is sold as-is, including the old house on the land. The total land size is 217 square meters, with the main building covering 117 square meters. Additional structures include a 17-square-meter storage shed and a 2.5-square-meter toilet building. The structure is wooden, built in 1887.
Located in Okuizumo Town, Shimane Prefecture, the area is part of the scenic Okuizumo region, known for its deep connections to Japanese mythology and traditional tatara iron-making. An interesting local fact is that Okuizumo is considered one of the possible settings for the ancient Izumo no Kuni, a land of gods in Japanese folklore. The closest major landmark is the iconic Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, located approximately an hour's drive away.