In under a year you have: 1) Moved overseas to Japan (after planning and saving up for 2 years in Australia); 2) Managed to find an employer and a job and organized a work visa; 3) Found a rental apartment; 4) Bought a car; 5) Purchased an Akiya for USD 13k, and: 6) renovated/remodeled the home substantially, converted a garage space and patio putting in labor and hiring a handyman for bathroom and pipe refitting after dealing with the Council - all by yourself as a lady in her late 40s. -- And you have done all this quietly with dignity. I guarantee most TH-camrs in Japan would have been creating drama and whining for AT LEAST 5-10 episodes for EACH of the points mentioned above. You have done in under 1 year what it takes most people at least 5 years to do (if at all). What you've achieved is EXTRAORDINARY! I wish you the very best going forward.
Oh 🤔 when you mention all these things it sounds crazy that I even thought I could do it. From that moment I started saving I had a strong vision of what I wanted to achieve. I have more ideas in the pipeline that I am very excited about 🤗😁 Thank you for reminding me how far I’ve come ❤️
Agree. The first video I watched, Chani mentioned she had received some harsh critics about the whole thing... I mean, HOW???! How?! How many people can actually do what she did and do it so brilliantly? I'm pretty strong and resourceful but I don't think I could do all this, it's too overwhelming to me. I'm really, really impressed. As one should be!
I'm also living in Japan. I know life ain't easy here ;) you did very well. Very amazing story. Kudos to your strength and ability to handle so much yourself
That's what i love about TH-cam, you can find the channel/youtuber that speaks to you. Im older to, can't connect with the younguns aa much. I can feel happy for them...but never watch again😂😂
Contrary to what you seem to believe the easiest way to move to Japan is to do what Chani did. Teach English. Money doesnt help you much with getting a VISA.
@@maiy8786 Hmmm... you got me thinking... I'm a qualified and experienced teacher of English, with a reasonable-ish level of Japanese... Maybe a potential future here...
I admit, I would prefer being in Tokyo but I would grow tired of it quickly. At this moment, I can look over my back fence and see woodland and farms. I think I would appreciate a rural setting in Japan, too.
As someone who don't understand why people wanted small spaces in tokyo compared to country side with bigger space? Wondering how many calamities hit big cities compared to villages and why People wanted to move out when they could just expand the city center of their prefecture?
My sister just bought a house here in the UK and she had to pay £200,000/$385,000AUD for a house that's not much bigger than yours in an area thats not very nice, and with neighbours who aren't great. Crazy how much cheaper things are in Japan while also being higher quality. I'm learning Japanese right now and building my business so I can hopefully move there in the next few years. Your video showed me that my goal isnt as unrealistic as I had worried, and your other video about your monthly expenses surprised me with how little money it takes to live a fairly comfortable life over there in a place that's so safe and friendly.
While everything seems great in Japan for the short term. How to prepare for retirement in the long term? Can you retire in Japan or you have to go back home?
I lived in Japan (Tokyo and Nara) for 20 years before returning to the U.S. Seeing you tackle challenges brings back many memories. You have made great choices in your house and location. I look forward to your videos. You have such a pleasant delivery style in your speech and positive attitude. Thank you and best wishes!
This is funny: I also spent nearly 20 years in Japan, both near Nara and in Tokyo. I don't think Japan is right for many foreigners: the countryside can feel lonely and boring while city life is busy (exhausting) and cramped everywhere (seating in restaurants, trains and even the apartments) if not outright claustrophobic. Most Japanese are trying to get out, so they think the foreigners who go there are strange. I always thought the best investment decision I ever made was not to buy property in Japan. Maybe prices are low enough now for there to be no downside. But I am not sure. The Japanese government is desperate to raise taxes. They won't cut spending: they want to raise taxes. So I worry about the innovative tax traps that might be around the corner. I don't know what is coming. But I never imagined the BOJ would be buying shares on the stock exchange either (as part of the quantitative easing). But I am pretty sure foreigners are walking into tax traps. I hope I am wrong.
Very few people at late 40s have the courage to start their life from scratch in a totally different country. Very inspirational to me! congrats on all your accomplishments in Japan. Hope you have a wonderful life there!
Having a closed (lockable) garage inside the main house is such a luxury in urban areas of Japan. That was great thinking ! Did the local building authorities give you any grief or was separate permitting required to change the former beauty salon into a garage ? (IE: did they require any structural changes to accommodate the big garage door ? ) Despite the limited choices one has when getting one of those Toto bath inserts, I think they’re totally worth it. Easy to clean, plenty of shower space and the tubs are usually deep enough to soak your shoulders. Sure, it would have been nice to pick custom tiles or a fancy tub, but just think how easy those are for maintenance!
For the garage, nothing was needed permit wise to change as the house was already on commercial/residential land. There already was an old door so structurally I didn't have to change anything just remove the glass door behind the roller door. 😀
Not much better out west in Adelaide way either. Pretty amazing that for the price of a house deposit in Australia (or in Chani's case, not even a house deposit), you can get a whole property renovated somewhere else.
Chani - Great story telling (you must be a very good English teacher), great video editing, and btw superb work with the house. Wish you a great journey in Japan, and a lot of success with this channel. 🙂
Hello from USA Hats off to you . Going to a new country, taking up a job and buying a house and working on it yourself or hiring people . Because as women we are scared of being taken advantage of and hiring the right honest people etc. the garage looks awesome. And so does the grass carpet. You knowing Japanese helps a lot too. I am surprised that Japan being such an technology advanced country they don’t have central AC and a dryer for clothes. Your videos have inspired me so much that now I need to start working on my home. Decluttering it, cleaning it sprucing it and making it new.
I love your house! I live in Toronto where home ownership is a difficult if not impossible thing so it's very nice to see your affordable housing experience in Japan. Was very interesting to hear how your neighbours commended you on your rehabilitation of the house. You've helped to make the neighbourhood a more desirable place to live. Looking forward to future installments of Chani Japan!
Oh Chani, your house looks amazing 😍. I absolutely love it and I understand why you are so happy here. I'm so glad that you managed to get the water situation sorted. That can be a nightmare in any house 🏠. I love the cat wall 🧱 😻 and the new bathroom. The kitchen has really scrubbed up well. You have really made this house into a beautiful home 🏡 ❤ 🫶
Wonderful update. Your place looks great. 39K AUD! I come from a two and a half dog town in Oz and you can't even buy a run-down garage in the worst part of town for that! I am in the process of starting a project in Miyazaki and you have inspired me with your channel to perhaps someday start my own.
I payed 3000 a month in rent for 12 months in San Francisco, CA, USA. $36000 for a 1 bedroom APT. Let that sink in. Why am I still here 🇺🇲? I love Japan🇯🇵. This just sold me. Have you ever been interviewed before? I want to do this so bad it hurts.
@@ChaniJapanActually $3000 a month in rent in SF is not too bad. My son paid more. Don’t forget the income might be at least 5-6 times of an average Japanese. And when you retire in US, your maximize social security income can be over $4000US a month but if someone moves to Japan, retirement back to home country without proper savings can be a major problem. It’s risky to move to Japan without thinking about retirement in the long run.
Thank you so much for sharing your videos. I'm in my 40s and I love seeing someone make their dream come true while they're older instead of in their 20s and showing the realistic view that isn't all rainbows and flowers. I was surprised at the cost for everything when the house was finished. I was not that expensive compared to where I live. I was great to see the transformation.
I am in my late 20s and have been thinking about the future. So many things change in my dreams but one thing remains constant: I want to live in Japan. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏾
Amazing work! The house is looking great and it’s so enjoyable to watch you handle all of the challenges living in a new country. I’m looking forward to seeing more from your day to day life.
@@ChaniJapan I saw your video about buyers remorse right after getting your house. Glad to see everything worked out. I am fascinated with Japan life videos (experienced by non Japanese though). Your video editing is perfect, good length, and the narration is clear. Kudos.
I am in awe! It takes courage to accomplish what you have done. I cannot WAIT to continue watching your channel. I love your home and your attitude toward life! Love to you both!
Best aspect of this channel is your upfront with costs and fees, I know it’s relative to your individual situation and can be significantly different in other areas.
Great job! You should definitely take a bow on this accomplishment! The videos you did to document your experience are inspirational!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾💙💙💙💙
I'm speechless. You can't buy even a studio apartment anywhere in the U.S for this. Barely a single year of rent with 25k AUD! I'm soon to be 30 and have been looking for an avenue of escape and you just made the impossible look easy. This is the real dream. Debt free in a magical land. Wow.
Hi from Philadelphia, Chani ! I love what you did to the house and found the costs surprisingly inexpensive. Good on you!! Oh and Miss Millie.. I do believe she knows how gorgeous she is!! Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Pets to Millie !!
26k usd?😮 dang so i could totally mive to Japan. My japanese has gotten worse over the years but thats so much more affordable than what we have now. Thank you for posting and updating us.
Love your make do and mend practical approach Chani! Your home looks great! Thanks for another enjoyable video! Milly is adorable - love the cat wall you provided for her! She looks like a real character!
I really like the honest and simple style of your videos. This is great information about your story of moving to Japan and the real problems you faced and their solutions. Also, Millie must love that cat wall!
The bathroom looks great, even though you had to rush it! I'm a similar age as you and looking to move abroad to get a life of my own as well. But finding a job is really the most important thing to be able to do that. I'm still waiting for my opportunity to come before it's too late for me....
Millie is so curious and adorable!!! It was so interesting seeing how much work you did on the house! It now looks brand new and very cute!! Must have been a stressful process but super inspiring.
How are you such a legend? It’s so funny like I struggle putting the washing away whilst you’re casually just building a house over there. Honestly I feel like if I was stuck on a deserted with you I’d hand you some coconuts and leaves then in 5 minutes we’d have a luxury cruise liner to escape on.
@@ChaniJapan I think that’s why people like your channel. Your videos are relaxing but at the same time you’re just so on the ball and focused on this project.
Thank you Chani for the great video and information! Really informative and I am glad everything turned out well in the end! :)Can't wait to see more of your journey!
Absolutely love what you’ve achieved. You should be super proud of yourself ❤. You are motivating me to do the same I’m just in the final stages of the transformation of my apartment that I bought in Italy last year. Japan is also my dream. Thank you so much for sharing ❤❤
Congratulations to you settling into your new life in Japan with your pet. On the outside you sound and appear as gentle as a lamb, but I guess on the inside you are as brave as a lion,to follow your dreams and let nothing hold you back. I admire what you have done and achieved. I came to UK from China 18 years ago with a suitcase like you, major culture shock, had to learn the language etc. but it was worth it in the end. Seven years after renting in UK I was then able to buy my own property, it was super stressful, and I didn’t even have burst pipes lol you are amazing for doing what you have done all within the year! Japan is on my to-do-list and I hope to visit there some day. 😊
Im a new subscriber and have been watching some of the move videos. You have done so well to renovate the house. It looks beautiful and I enjoy your down to earth presentation style Chani.
Thanks for another interesting video Chani. Your renovations look great and I especially like the personality you were able to put into the laundry with the tiles and plants. I’m glad all the early problems didn’t put you off and you can now enjoy your lovely home with Milly 😻
Love the videos Chani! Keep them coming :) We are back at our akiya kominka house next week after a few months back home in Australia. I'm finding lots of inspiration from your renovations! Thank you for the great content.
OMG it looks awesome. Thank you so much. It helps to know about the additional costs and taxes for these. The astroturf definitely makes it look very welcoming.
Love your videos Chani, thank you for sharing!!! I'm delighted that you created your channel. I look forward to your videos and it excites me to see whenever you upload a new one! Your new home is coming together sooo well, I love it! The cost is really great too, all things considered. Sending you love from Oregon! 💗
I really love your channel ♥️ I've been watching you for a long time and love everything you did to that place. It was inspiring. You guys have a beaut spot and some great big land. Thanks for the comment 😀
What a lovely property! I believe this is a labour of love. Kudos to you on showing how single women can get things done👏❤!!! And thank you for sharing all your cost information. It really makes me feel like my goal of moving to Japan is realistic and achievable!😍Thank you!
I loved your video! Thank you and I hope to do something like this someday. I lived in Wakayama decades ago and have a soft spot for that area. Keep up the great content.
Congratulations! Yes, there are always unwelcome surprises with renovations, but you managed to buy and renovate a house in under a year in a fireign country. That is a great achievement. The house looks beautiful, I'm sure the neighbours were over the moon.
You are amazing and brave for having done all this in such a short time. I am sure there were challenges, and you took care of them. Wishing you the best in your beautiful home.
Your house looks amazing and you not only fixed it up in record time but you gave it a lovely and homely personality. It looks wonderful :). I’m in Melbourne now but spent a good part of my growing up years in Brisbane and on the Sunshine Coast. Things have changed a lot over that time. I wish I had been able to spend longer in Japan years ago. But it was a quick stop over each time as I was on my way back to the UK. I love everything Japan from the Cherry Blossoms to their watercolours and everything in between.
Thank you for posting these videos. My Japanese partner and I are planning on moving to a small island in Ehime and considering buying an akiya. It's great to see that you consider your purchase a success, despite the needed renovations and fixes. I am also impressed with how you managed everything on your own. Congrats on your house!
Fantastic achievement Chani and you are an inspiration to me. I was going to ask what you do for a living but I then saw your other videos and figured it out! :D I've always loved Japan, visited the country for the first time at the end of last year and I loved it. I hadn't heard about Akiyas until recently and then stumbled on your video tonight. I live in suburban Perth but I dearly want to buy something affordable and renovate it (mostly myself if possible) as an investment and possibly to live in the near future when I'm in my 50's. There's so much to learn about what to do and what to look out for and your video is invaluable, thanking you!
I am so impressed. You have done a great job of this. I helped a friend with an akiya 25 years ago in the heart of Kobe. We had to pretty much take the house down to the bones. It took us two years on weekends to restore it. And like you said, it was worth it. I would be happy to do this again someday. Thank you for inspiring me and others.
thank you for your accuracy, plans showing , explanations of difficulties and all the details what product you used, costs etc very very very nice video ones again
Very well done, and very well deserved from what we see. Thank you for sharing your experience without all the fluff, glitz and/or horror that is all too often associated with this type of move.
When I was young, my dream was to live in Japan for an extended period of time because I really enjoy the culture and the food. The problem is I don't know Japanese. I am retired already and so I don't need to work. May I know how long does it take to learn Japanese and is it hard to learn? When are the areas that doesn't require driving that I should consider living?
I can't believe that the bathroom was renovated in only one week and that it cost less than $10,000USD (since all of your renovations combined were less than that)! That wouldn't happen in California, where I live. They would say it would take a week and it would take 2 months, and it would cost at least 10% more than they estimated. I think the bathroom is perfect and the kitchen is too, after you cleaned it. You can add pops of color in other ways if you want. Beautiful home, and I love Millie. (I also can't live without my 2 cats.) 😻
*Have you seen my Real Japan Living Video on day to day life?* th-cam.com/video/KE_HnXRU2HA/w-d-xo.html
Hello :) just wondering if you can tell me how you found an Akiya in japan? Thanks
YOU GO, GIRL!
😍😍😍😍🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰😀😀😀😀😀❤️❤️❤️❤️🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
In under a year you have: 1) Moved overseas to Japan (after planning and saving up for 2 years in Australia); 2) Managed to find an employer and a job and organized a work visa; 3) Found a rental apartment; 4) Bought a car; 5) Purchased an Akiya for USD 13k, and: 6) renovated/remodeled the home substantially, converted a garage space and patio putting in labor and hiring a handyman for bathroom and pipe refitting after dealing with the Council - all by yourself as a lady in her late 40s. -- And you have done all this quietly with dignity. I guarantee most TH-camrs in Japan would have been creating drama and whining for AT LEAST 5-10 episodes for EACH of the points mentioned above. You have done in under 1 year what it takes most people at least 5 years to do (if at all). What you've achieved is EXTRAORDINARY! I wish you the very best going forward.
Oh 🤔 when you mention all these things it sounds crazy that I even thought I could do it. From that moment I started saving I had a strong vision of what I wanted to achieve. I have more ideas in the pipeline that I am very excited about 🤗😁
Thank you for reminding me how far I’ve come ❤️
so true! This is my dream! I don’t have the funds yet, but i’m moving back this year and i’ll get started on the saving. You’re inspiring me so much!
Agree. The first video I watched, Chani mentioned she had received some harsh critics about the whole thing... I mean, HOW???! How?! How many people can actually do what she did and do it so brilliantly? I'm pretty strong and resourceful but I don't think I could do all this, it's too overwhelming to me. I'm really, really impressed. As one should be!
I agree but im sure she secured the job before arrival. Otherwise, the only way she could have came to Japan was on a student visa.
I'm also living in Japan. I know life ain't easy here ;) you did very well. Very amazing story. Kudos to your strength and ability to handle so much yourself
Lovely to see a moving-to-Japan story that isn't either a 22-year-old on parents' money, or a retired person with loads of money anyway.
also nice to see a renovation project that doesn't involve buying a 5,000 year old barn in the middle of nowhere.
That's what i love about TH-cam, you can find the channel/youtuber that speaks to you. Im older to, can't connect with the younguns aa much. I can feel happy for them...but never watch again😂😂
Totally!! Super realistic and showing all the good and the not so good!
Contrary to what you seem to believe the easiest way to move to Japan is to do what Chani did. Teach English.
Money doesnt help you much with getting a VISA.
@@maiy8786 Hmmm... you got me thinking... I'm a qualified and experienced teacher of English, with a reasonable-ish level of Japanese... Maybe a potential future here...
I am Japanese. Wakayama like many other parts of Japan has declining population problems. Thank you for moving in and helping local economy !
Wakayama really is a beautiful place with lots of nature ♥️
We are hoping to end up in the Wakayama area too :)
Its nice to hear Japan is open minded to foreigners moving in.
I admit, I would prefer being in Tokyo but I would grow tired of it quickly. At this moment, I can look over my back fence and see woodland and farms. I think I would appreciate a rural setting in Japan, too.
As someone who don't understand why people wanted small spaces in tokyo compared to country side with bigger space? Wondering how many calamities hit big cities compared to villages and why People wanted to move out when they could just expand the city center of their prefecture?
My sister just bought a house here in the UK and she had to pay £200,000/$385,000AUD for a house that's not much bigger than yours in an area thats not very nice, and with neighbours who aren't great.
Crazy how much cheaper things are in Japan while also being higher quality.
I'm learning Japanese right now and building my business so I can hopefully move there in the next few years. Your video showed me that my goal isnt as unrealistic as I had worried, and your other video about your monthly expenses surprised me with how little money it takes to live a fairly comfortable life over there in a place that's so safe and friendly.
Life is certainly more affordable here if you can budget and manage the lower income. 🐱
While everything seems great in Japan for the short term. How to prepare for retirement in the long term? Can you retire in Japan or you have to go back home?
I lived in Japan (Tokyo and Nara) for 20 years before returning to the U.S. Seeing you tackle challenges brings back many memories. You have made great choices in your house and location. I look forward to your videos. You have such a pleasant delivery style in your speech and positive attitude. Thank you and best wishes!
Hi Beth, I hope to live in Japan someday. May I ask what brought you back to the US after being there for such a long time?
Nara is a beautiful spot! 20 years is a long time in Japan 🇯🇵😀. Thank you for your comment ♥️
@@lauravirgin8796 major change in marital status
This is funny: I also spent nearly 20 years in Japan, both near Nara and in Tokyo.
I don't think Japan is right for many foreigners: the countryside can feel lonely and boring while city life is busy (exhausting) and cramped everywhere (seating in restaurants, trains and even the apartments) if not outright claustrophobic. Most Japanese are trying to get out, so they think the foreigners who go there are strange.
I always thought the best investment decision I ever made was not to buy property in Japan. Maybe prices are low enough now for there to be no downside.
But I am not sure. The Japanese government is desperate to raise taxes. They won't cut spending: they want to raise taxes.
So I worry about the innovative tax traps that might be around the corner. I don't know what is coming. But I never imagined the BOJ would be buying shares on the stock exchange either (as part of the quantitative easing).
But I am pretty sure foreigners are walking into tax traps. I hope I am wrong.
@@whitesamurai i agree i guess other countrys have same
problems of US&CND&UK&EU&JP NORTH countrys
camping car van life peoples increasing
Milly is living her best life 😊 Your house is lovely.
Yes, she is certainly spoilt. Thanks 😀
There’s nothing more satisfying than just walking around your new house and seeing your achievements, and just enjoying 😊
Well done you!!
Yes! Thank you! 🤗
It looks such a good neighborhood😊 I can imagine how much they are happy and relieved to see someone very decent like you moving in. I would be😊
The neighbors are lovely. Everyone puts out nice flower pots so it feels friendly. 😀💐🌺
Great transformation. There is something very therapeutic in taking something old and banged-up and bringing it back to life. Well done!
Thanks 😀
Very few people at late 40s have the courage to start their life from scratch in a totally different country. Very inspirational to me! congrats on all your accomplishments in Japan. Hope you have a wonderful life there!
Having a closed (lockable) garage inside the main house is such a luxury in urban areas of Japan. That was great thinking ! Did the local building authorities give you any grief or was separate permitting required to change the former beauty salon into a garage ? (IE: did they require any structural changes to accommodate the big garage door ? ) Despite the limited choices one has when getting one of those Toto bath inserts, I think they’re totally worth it. Easy to clean, plenty of shower space and the tubs are usually deep enough to soak your shoulders. Sure, it would have been nice to pick custom tiles or a fancy tub, but just think how easy those are for maintenance!
For the garage, nothing was needed permit wise to change as the house was already on commercial/residential land. There already was an old door so structurally I didn't have to change anything just remove the glass door behind the roller door. 😀
$40k in Sydney would get you a garden shed for about 6 months :) Incredible how affordable some areas in Japan are.
Not much better out west in Adelaide way either.
Pretty amazing that for the price of a house deposit in Australia (or in Chani's case, not even a house deposit), you can get a whole property renovated somewhere else.
Chani - Great story telling (you must be a very good English teacher), great video editing, and btw superb work with the house. Wish you a great journey in Japan, and a lot of success with this channel. 🙂
Wow, thank you! It is very much appreciated. Your support means a lot to me and your kind words encourage me to keep making videos!
I too would have been frustrated by having to make immediate decisions on the bathroom, but in the end, it looks great!
Thanks 😀 Yes it was frustrating and a lot of trust involved with leaving some important decicions up to the builder to get it done in time.
Hello from USA
Hats off to you . Going to a new country, taking up a job and buying a house and working on it yourself or hiring people . Because as women we are scared of being taken advantage of and hiring the right honest people etc.
the garage looks awesome. And so does the grass carpet. You knowing Japanese helps a lot too.
I am surprised that Japan being such an technology advanced country they don’t have central AC and a dryer for clothes.
Your videos have inspired me so much that now I need to start working on my home. Decluttering it, cleaning it sprucing it and making it new.
Hi there! yes the turf was the best I could do to fix the ugly cement. The people I've dealt with have been honest thankfully.
I love your house! I live in Toronto where home ownership is a difficult if not impossible thing so it's very nice to see your affordable housing experience in Japan. Was very interesting to hear how your neighbours commended you on your rehabilitation of the house. You've helped to make the neighbourhood a more desirable place to live. Looking forward to future installments of Chani Japan!
Thanks. Home ownership in Australia has also become very difficult. 🤗
Oh Chani, your house looks amazing 😍. I absolutely love it and I understand why you are so happy here. I'm so glad that you managed to get the water situation sorted. That can be a nightmare in any house 🏠. I love the cat wall 🧱 😻 and the new bathroom. The kitchen has really scrubbed up well. You have really made this house into a beautiful home 🏡 ❤ 🫶
Thank you so much!! I am glad it got to this stage now 😀
Wonderful update. Your place looks great. 39K AUD! I come from a two and a half dog town in Oz and you can't even buy a run-down garage in the worst part of town for that!
I am in the process of starting a project in Miyazaki and you have inspired me with your channel to perhaps someday start my own.
Miyazaki looks like a beautiful place.
You did a great job sorting those issues out. Actually the house looks great, well done!
Thank you! I appreciate the comment 😀
I payed 3000 a month in rent for 12 months in San Francisco, CA, USA. $36000 for a 1 bedroom APT. Let that sink in.
Why am I still here 🇺🇲? I love Japan🇯🇵. This just sold me. Have you ever been interviewed before? I want to do this so bad it hurts.
Very expensive rent 😲
@@ChaniJapanActually $3000 a month in rent in SF is not too bad. My son paid more. Don’t forget the income might be at least 5-6 times of an average Japanese. And when you retire in US, your maximize social security income can be over $4000US a month but if someone moves to Japan, retirement back to home country without proper savings can be a major problem. It’s risky to move to Japan without thinking about retirement in the long run.
Thank you so much for sharing your videos. I'm in my 40s and I love seeing someone make their dream come true while they're older instead of in their 20s and showing the realistic view that isn't all rainbows and flowers. I was surprised at the cost for everything when the house was finished. I was not that expensive compared to where I live. I was great to see the transformation.
Thanks for watching!
It’s beautiful! You can always tweak it with art etc. as you find pieces you love. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
So true! I hope to find some nice art for the walls.
I am in my late 20s and have been thinking about the future. So many things change in my dreams but one thing remains constant: I want to live in Japan. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏾
I hope you can do it one day! ♥️
I am Japanese. You are welcome!
Amazing work! The house is looking great and it’s so enjoyable to watch you handle all of the challenges living in a new country. I’m looking forward to seeing more from your day to day life.
Glad you enjoy it!
Loved the fake grass and the look of the renovated house overall.
Thanks for that. The fake grass is also nice under foot and I don't have to mow it which is a bonus! 😀
@@ChaniJapan I saw your video about buyers remorse right after getting your house. Glad to see everything worked out. I am fascinated with Japan life videos (experienced by non Japanese though). Your video editing is perfect, good length, and the narration is clear. Kudos.
@@jackh127 thanks so much 😃
I am in awe! It takes courage to accomplish what you have done. I cannot WAIT to continue watching your channel. I love your home and your attitude toward life! Love to you both!
Thank you so much!! 🐱
Best aspect of this channel is your upfront with costs and fees, I know it’s relative to your individual situation and can be significantly different in other areas.
Wow! Remarkable achievements for that price.
I'm finding the cost of materials and labour are a lot more affordable here.
Great job! You should definitely take a bow on this accomplishment! The videos you did to document your experience are inspirational!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾💙💙💙💙
House looks fantastic!!! What a transformation. You have done a great job, you should be proud of yourself!!
Thank you so much! 😃
I'm speechless. You can't buy even a studio apartment anywhere in the U.S for this. Barely a single year of rent with 25k AUD! I'm soon to be 30 and have been looking for an avenue of escape and you just made the impossible look easy. This is the real dream. Debt free in a magical land. Wow.
Hi from Philadelphia, Chani ! I love what you did to the house and found
the costs surprisingly inexpensive. Good on you!! Oh and Miss Millie..
I do believe she knows how gorgeous she is!! Thanks for sharing your
journey with us. Pets to Millie !!
Thank you so much! 😃👋
I am in awe of your spirit and can do attitude. Please sprinkle some my way.....The transformation is fantastic, and Millie is adorable.
✨Sprinkle sprinkle✨
I live in Japan,you did a great job. A touch of America with the turf in the front yard and the garage. 😊
Great job and I'm really liking your channel.
Thank you very much! 😊
26k usd?😮 dang so i could totally mive to Japan. My japanese has gotten worse over the years but thats so much more affordable than what we have now. Thank you for posting and updating us.
Don’t forget income in Japan is lower too. Everything is relative.
Love your make do and mend practical approach Chani! Your home looks great! Thanks for another enjoyable video! Milly is adorable - love the cat wall you provided for her! She looks like a real character!
Thank you so much! She is such a character 🐱
I really like the honest and simple style of your videos. This is great information about your story of moving to Japan and the real problems you faced and their solutions. Also, Millie must love that cat wall!
Thank you so much! Millie loves the wall 🐱 she is still a kitten so very adventurous. 😃
The bathroom looks great, even though you had to rush it! I'm a similar age as you and looking to move abroad to get a life of my own as well. But finding a job is really the most important thing to be able to do that. I'm still waiting for my opportunity to come before it's too late for me....
Thank you for the comment. I hope that you can find your opportunity ♥️
The house has been given a new life! So exciting! You’re doing a great job to make your house a home! 😊
Thank you so much ♥️
Love watchingcur Channel, you definitely made some Really Good Choice Chani 🥰🇬🇧🇬🇧
Thank you so much 🤗
Millie is so curious and adorable!!!
It was so interesting seeing how much work you did on the house! It now looks brand new and very cute!! Must have been a stressful process but super inspiring.
Thank you so much! 🤗
How are you such a legend? It’s so funny like I struggle putting the washing away whilst you’re casually just building a house over there. Honestly I feel like if I was stuck on a deserted with you I’d hand you some coconuts and leaves then in 5 minutes we’d have a luxury cruise liner to escape on.
I also struggle to put the washing away 🤣 But if I get motivated to do something I can push through.
@@ChaniJapan I think that’s why people like your channel. Your videos are relaxing but at the same time you’re just so on the ball and focused on this project.
Love seeing how this works in Japan. Adore the tile in your washer under the stairs. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Great video! Love the transformation and all the great details and ideas you shared about the journey!
Thanks so much! Very kind of you 🤗❤️
Thank you Chani for the great video and information! Really informative and I am glad everything turned out well in the end! :)Can't wait to see more of your journey!
😀👋 more coming
Absolutely love what you’ve achieved. You should be super proud of yourself ❤. You are motivating me to do the same I’m just in the final stages of the transformation of my apartment that I bought in Italy last year. Japan is also my dream. Thank you so much for sharing ❤❤
Wow an apartment in Italy sounds great 😃
So helpful! It looks really good. I will refer back when I get to the garden of my new home next spring. Exciting!!!
Regardless of the problems I fully agree that you came out very well! Enjoy!
Good idea with the fake grass. Really spruced up the garden.
Your house is beautiful ❤ I can feel the love you have for the place and Milly of course
Congratulations to you settling into your new life in Japan with your pet. On the outside you sound and appear as gentle as a lamb, but I guess on the inside you are as brave as a lion,to follow your dreams and let nothing hold you back. I admire what you have done and achieved. I came to UK from China 18 years ago with a suitcase like you, major culture shock, had to learn the language etc. but it was worth it in the end. Seven years after renting in UK I was then able to buy my own property, it was super stressful, and I didn’t even have burst pipes lol you are amazing for doing what you have done all within the year! Japan is on my to-do-list and I hope to visit there some day. 😊
Wow you've made a big move too! Well done for buying that property. I'm sure it was well worth it ♥️ I hope you get to Japan one day 😀
Amazing Job on the house looks great. I wish I had your guts I lived in Japan for 6 years as a kid miss it very much.
Thank you 😀
Very intersting. And this is a very intact building. YOu did great work.
You are so peaceful and matter-of-fact about how things went. I'm so glad to follow a TH-camr closer to my age.
Thanks so much 🩷
Fabulous job.. Cute little house for you your cat and visitors if you want. The bonus garage is fantastic..
Enjoy your new life❤️🌸❤️
Thanks so much! 😊
Im a new subscriber and have been watching some of the move videos. You have done so well to renovate the house. It looks beautiful and I enjoy your down to earth presentation style Chani.
Thanks so much! 😊
Thanks for another interesting video Chani. Your renovations look great and I especially like the personality you were able to put into the laundry with the tiles and plants. I’m glad all the early problems didn’t put you off and you can now enjoy your lovely home with Milly 😻
Thank you so much! 🐱
Very nice how things are shaping up. Love seeing that bathroom all new!
Thanks so much! 🤗
Love this. Amazing! So impressed. Love the cat wall - brilliant - haven't seen one before. So glad you're settling well and thriving there!
Thanks so much! 😊
Love the videos Chani! Keep them coming :) We are back at our akiya kominka house next week after a few months back home in Australia. I'm finding lots of inspiration from your renovations! Thank you for the great content.
You are coming back! How good. Your house is truely lovely in the countryside. How long are you back for?
@@ChaniJapan Just one month this visit :)
OMG it looks awesome. Thank you so much. It helps to know about the additional costs and taxes for these. The astroturf definitely makes it look very welcoming.
Thanks 👋
Love your videos Chani, thank you for sharing!!! I'm delighted that you created your channel. I look forward to your videos and it excites me to see whenever you upload a new one!
Your new home is coming together sooo well, I love it! The cost is really great too, all things considered.
Sending you love from Oregon! 💗
Oregon♥️ Wow! Hi there 😀 Thank you for your lovely comments.
everytime I watch a akiya video its always AWESOME SO CHEAP WOULD BUY 5 MORE! Thank you for your honesty
Great job! We renovated an Akiya in rural Yamaguchi
I really love your channel ♥️ I've been watching you for a long time and love everything you did to that place. It was inspiring. You guys have a beaut spot and some great big land. Thanks for the comment 😀
you've a very calming voice it's great to see this journey
Thanks 😀
What a lovely property! I believe this is a labour of love. Kudos to you on showing how single women can get things done👏❤!!! And thank you for sharing all your cost information. It really makes me feel like my goal of moving to Japan is realistic and achievable!😍Thank you!
Thank you so much for your kind words! It makes me happy to know you found the cost information helpful!
I loved your video! Thank you and I hope to do something like this someday. I lived in Wakayama decades ago and have a soft spot for that area. Keep up the great content.
Congratulations! Yes, there are always unwelcome surprises with renovations, but you managed to buy and renovate a house in under a year in a fireign country. That is a great achievement. The house looks beautiful, I'm sure the neighbours were over the moon.
You are amazing and brave for having done all this in such a short time. I am sure there were challenges, and you took care of them. Wishing you the best in your beautiful home.
Thank you so much!
I love Millie. Thank you for sharing your experience, I'm truly enjoying your videos
You are so kind! Thank you very much ❤️
Your home looks amazing worth all the trials and tribulations. ❤
Extraordinary is the correct word. Your house is AWESOME!! I'm sure the neighbors are thrilled
Thank you so much!
Thanks for explaining the process of buying your house and the expenses, etc. It really ended up looking great and you got a garage!
Your house looks amazing and you not only fixed it up in record time but you gave it a lovely and homely personality. It looks wonderful :). I’m in Melbourne now but spent a good part of my growing up years in Brisbane and on the Sunshine Coast. Things have changed a lot over that time. I wish I had been able to spend longer in Japan years ago. But it was a quick stop over each time as I was on my way back to the UK. I love everything Japan from the Cherry Blossoms to their watercolours and everything in between.
Thank you for posting these videos. My Japanese partner and I are planning on moving to a small island in Ehime and considering buying an akiya. It's great to see that you consider your purchase a success, despite the needed renovations and fixes. I am also impressed with how you managed everything on your own. Congrats on your house!
I love the color choice for the awning on your patio. It looks like it creates a nice rosy/soft tone. Glad you're enjoying Japan! Stay safe
Thank you! I need to get some fairy lights out there too.
Thank you so much for detailed and very practical videos! You are amazing with what you have achieved with your lovely house!❤
Thank you so much!
Good renovation! You are doing it!
Thank you!
Fantastic achievement Chani and you are an inspiration to me. I was going to ask what you do for a living but I then saw your other videos and figured it out! :D
I've always loved Japan, visited the country for the first time at the end of last year and I loved it. I hadn't heard about Akiyas until recently and then stumbled on your video tonight. I live in suburban Perth but I dearly want to buy something affordable and renovate it (mostly myself if possible) as an investment and possibly to live in the near future when I'm in my 50's. There's so much to learn about what to do and what to look out for and your video is invaluable, thanking you!
Right choice you made Your house looks beautiful, God bless you.
Thank you so much! 🐱
Beautiful home! I particularly love your laundry room. Thank you for sharing. So inspiring
Thank you so much!
I am so impressed. You have done a great job of this. I helped a friend with an akiya 25 years ago in the heart of Kobe. We had to pretty much take the house down to the bones. It took us two years on weekends to restore it. And like you said, it was worth it. I would be happy to do this again someday. Thank you for inspiring me and others.
Thanks for your kind words. In the heart of Kobe! What a great location 🏡
thank you for your accuracy, plans showing , explanations of difficulties and all the details what product you used, costs etc very very very nice video ones again
Glad it was helpful!
Very well done, and very well deserved from what we see.
Thank you for sharing your experience without all the fluff, glitz and/or horror that is all too often associated with this type of move.
So inspirational. I feel like I can accomplish my own dreams at 50 after watching this! Thanks for sharing!
You can do it!
When I was young, my dream was to live in Japan for an extended period of time because I really enjoy the culture and the food. The problem is I don't know Japanese. I am retired already and so I don't need to work. May I know how long does it take to learn Japanese and is it hard to learn? When are the areas that doesn't require driving that I should consider living?
I can't believe that the bathroom was renovated in only one week and that it cost less than $10,000USD (since all of your renovations combined were less than that)! That wouldn't happen in California, where I live. They would say it would take a week and it would take 2 months, and it would cost at least 10% more than they estimated. I think the bathroom is perfect and the kitchen is too, after you cleaned it. You can add pops of color in other ways if you want. Beautiful home, and I love Millie. (I also can't live without my 2 cats.) 😻
Thank you so much 😀
I loved your renovation choices and style, nicely done
Thank you! 😊
Chain,thanks for taking us along on your buying and fixing a home journey.
Thanks for your support!
10:16 Those pegs on the cat wall are hilarious lol
Certainly can't buy a house in Australia for 39k that house is very cute.
Excellent investment, I really like your home. It's peaceful and clearly in a good location. Well done!
This house is lovely and such a huge bargain! Congratulations on your home purchase and new life in Japan. Very inspirational.
Thanks so much! 😊
Well done.....The hardest thing about any journey is the first step....the rest is easy and you've proven that!!
Very true. It is that first step.
keep pluggin along very nice chani
Thanks, will do!
Thank you for your video. Your house looks really nice, I like what you have done with the outside and I love your new bathroom.
Thanks so much! 😊
Wow! Thank you for sharing!
I am thinking about moving back to Japan if I can get my finances straight. This was invaluable information! 😊
Wow i think you've been doing a great job 👍😀
Thanks 😊