A Historic Taisho-Era Kominka in the Heart of a 700-Year-Old Hot Spring Village
Nestled in the heart of the Yuno-hana hot spring district of Minamiaizu, this property offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of living history. The area itself is steeped in tradition, with local lore dating the discovery of its hot spring sources back approximately 700 years to the Kamakura period. It is a known yet intimate onsen town featuring four public bathhouses and nine hot spring inns. For residents who officially relocate their residency here and participate in regular cleaning of the communal baths, unlimited free access is granted—a dream come true for hot spring enthusiasts.
The main kominka (traditional Japanese house) was built in 1925 (Taisho 14). It was later extended in 1980 (Showa 55) to add a toilet and bathroom, making these facilities relatively new and comfortable for modern living. The property also includes a separate warehouse and a kura (traditional storehouse) built in 1877 (Meiji 10). To the east, there is space for a home vegetable garden. A significant practical advantage is that the area has complete public water and sewer systems, eliminating the hassle and maintenance costs associated with a private septic tank.
According to the property notes, the land is registered as residential land on flat terrain, with a total area of 684.84 sqm. The wooden structure features a zinc-coated steel sheet roof and is a single-story building with a total floor area of 163.09 sqm. Road access is from a paved public road on the northeast side (approx. 1.8-2.3m wide) and the southwest side (approx. 4.4m wide). The property is located outside of urban planning zones and is subject to the Minamiaizu Town Landscape Ordinance. Utilities include electricity, public water, and public sewer. The location is approximately 80 meters from a communal bathhouse.
The surrounding Minamiaizu region is part of Fukushima's breathtaking mountainous interior, offering pristine nature and outdoor activities year-round. An interesting local fact is that the area is a gateway to the legendary Oze Marshlands, one of Japan's most treasured highland wetlands. The closest major landmark is the majestic Mount Bandai, an iconic stratovolcano and popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the panoramic views of the Bandai-Azuma Skyline.