Japan’s Most Expensive Homes Are Not in Tokyo

Did you know that some of Japan’s most expensive private detached homes are not in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, or Kyoto?

 

They are found in Ashiya, a relatively small city between Osaka and Kobe.

 

In particular, Rokurokusō (六麓荘) has long been known as one of Japan’s most exclusive residential neighborhoods. Large properties, substantial homes, quiet streets, and strict building rules help preserve its character.

 

But here is something important:

 

If you are visiting Japan as a tourist, don't go there.

 

You probably won't see much anyway. Most of what you will see are large walls, gates, trees, and hedges. The homes are private, and the people who live there value that privacy. They are unlikely to appreciate tourists walking around trying to look at their houses.

 

And perhaps that is part of the Japanese Wisdom.

 

True luxury does not always advertise itself.

 

In places like Rokurokusō, wealth is hidden behind walls rather than displayed for everyone to see. Privacy, quietness, space, and the ability not to be seen are themselves luxuries.

 

静けさ — Shizukesa — Quietness.

 

Sometimes the most expensive thing money can buy is simply being left alone.