Japan's abandoned homes increase 80% in 20 years

Record 13.8% stand empty amid demographic decline

20240430N Japan vacant home

Abandoned homes are susceptible to pest and structural problems, making them a potential danger to their neighbors. (Photo by Kenichiro Kamata) 

KIU SUGANO and SATSUKI KANEKO, Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- The number of abandoned homes in Japan has climbed roughly 80% in 20 years, latest government data shows, as demographic declines in rural areas exacerbate the problem.

There were 3.85 million abandoned homes across Japan as of October 2023, according to a survey published Tuesday by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, an increase of 360,000 from the previous survey conducted in 2018.

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