Japan faces a unique housing crisis: a record number of vacant homes. With a staggering nine million empty houses – enough to house all of New York City – the country grapples with the consequences of a declining population.
These abandoned dwellings, known as "akiya," are traditionally found in rural areas, but are increasingly popping up in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. This trend highlights the root cause: Japan's shrinking population.
"It's not a problem of too many houses," explains Jeffrey Hall, a demographics expert. "It's a problem of not having enough people."
With a low birth rate and aging population, many akiya are inherited by younger generations who have no interest in rural life. Additionally, poor record-keeping leaves some properties in limbo, hindering efforts to revitalize these areas.
These vacant homes pose a multitude of problems. They hinder efforts to attract new residents and investment, become potential safety hazards due to neglect, and complicate disaster relief in earthquake and tsunami-prone regions.
Furthermore, Japan's tax policies often incentivize owners to hold onto akiya rather than demolish them for redevelopment.
The akiya crisis is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by nations with declining populations. It remains to be seen how Japan will address this issue and breathe new life into its shrinking communities.
Source: CNN
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