Akiya Furniture: Keep, Sell, or Toss? Your Guide

Just bought an akiya house and are wondering what to do with the akiya furniture?

If you have bought a Japanese house in inaka Japan and have found several furniture items inside of the house—this article is for you.

Houses in Japan's countryside tend to have a more traditional Japanese house layout, and you'll often find furniture that is unique to these houses.

Understanding these furniture items isn't just about decoration—it's about embracing a way of life that has evolved over centuries.

This guide will help you identify, evaluate, and make informed decisions about the traditional furniture you'll encounter in your akiya home.

Quick context: what is an akiya?

Akiya (空き家) means an empty house in Japan. Many stand empty because of population decline in rural areas.

Akiya often sell at steep discounts, and some sell for as little as ¥1. The Japanese government actively promotes akiya revitalization projects to bring these homes back into use.

Buying an akiya often means inheriting the furniture already inside. This guide helps you decide what to do with each piece — whether that's keeping it, selling it, restoring it, or letting it go respectfully.

At a glance: akiya furniture you'll find

This table reflects the values and daily life these traditional pieces represent.

Furniture	Japanese	What it is
Zabuton	座布団	Floor cushion for sitting
Futon	布団	Foldable bedding for sleeping
Obutsudan	お仏壇	Buddhist family altar
Kamidana	神棚	Shinto household shrine
Kukurimakura	括り枕	Traditional buckwheat pillow
Tansu	箪笥	Wooden storage chest
Kure-en / Nure-en	くれ縁 / 濡れ縁	Covered or open veranda
Kotatsu	こたつ	Heated low table
Shoji	障子	Paper sliding door
Tatami	畳	Woven straw floor mat
Hibachi	火鉢	Charcoal heating brazier

Why salvage akiya furniture?

Akiya furniture includes salvaged vintage and traditional pieces already inside these homes. Keeping and restoring them supports sustainability and reduces waste.

Buying and reusing akiya furniture also follows circular economy principles. You give existing materials a longer life instead of buying new.

Built to last

Japanese traditional furniture is often built to last, using durable materials and skilled craftsmanship. Many older pieces use traditional joinery, fitting wood together without nails.

This technique, called kigumi, lets furniture flex slightly and resist damage over time. It's one reason well-kept antique tansu and kaidan-dansu survive for generations.

A bridge between old and new

Preserving akiya furniture supports the continuation of regional craft traditions across Japan. Each piece serves as a bridge between historical craftsmanship and modern design.

Many pieces also use modular, space-saving designs suited to small rooms. Futon, zabuton, and kotatsu all fold away or store flat when not in use.

Some preservation methods go beyond furniture. Repurposing architectural elements, like a kaidan-dansu staircase or a kure-en veranda, keeps even bigger pieces of the house's history intact.

1. Zabuton (座布団) - floor cushions

A common alternative to chairs, Zabuton is a type of akiya furniture that is a floor pillow, used in the living room or family room.

They provide a bit of comfort when sitting on tatami mats, typically in the dining area or living area.

A zabuton is usually a rectangular cushion, often decorated with classic Japanese wagara patterns.

If your akiya house already has some, be sure to wash them before use. If not, you can easily find new ones to make sitting on the floor more comfortable for friends and family.

Historical context

Zabuton history traces back to the Heian period (794–1185). Nobility first used a similar padded cushion called shitone, according to Japan Objects .

Silk covers and detailed patterns once marked social status. Zabuton still matter for proper etiquette in traditional Japanese rooms today.

Practical information

• Standard Size: 59cm × 63cm × 5cm thick

• Price Range: ¥1,500-¥8,000 (new), ¥300-¥2,000 (used)

• Where to Buy: Nitori, IKEA Japan, Don Quijote, local fabric shops

Care and maintenance

• Washing: Remove covers if possible; spot clean foam interior

• Storage: Keep in dry, well-ventilated areas to prevent mold

• Replacement Schedule: Every 2-3 years with regular use

Safety Tip: Check for dust mites and allergens before use, especially in long-vacant akiya homes.

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: clean, free of odor, and structurally sound.

• Sell if: it has a rare or antique wagara pattern in good condition.

• Toss if: it shows mold, heavy staining, or pest damage.

2. Futon (布団) - Traditional bedding

A futon is a traditional Japanese bedding set that includes a foldable mattress and duvet, typically laid out on tatami mats for sleeping at night.

It’s a great space-saving option, as the bedding can be folded and stored away during the day.

If you're looking to buy a futon, many online home goods retailers and furniture stores offer a wide selection.

Space-saving benefits

A single 6-tatami room (approximately 10 square meters) can serve as both bedroom and living space when futon are properly stored. This flexibility was crucial in traditional Japanese homes where space was at a premium.

Practical information

• Standard Sizes: Single (100×200cm), Double (140×200cm)

• Price Range: ¥15,000-¥50,000 (complete set, new)

• Where to Buy: Muji, Nishikawa, local futon shops

• Seasonal Variations: Heavier winter sets, lighter summer versions

Health and hygiene considerations

Important: Never use futon left by previous owners without professional cleaning or replacement. Moisture, dust mites, and potential mold make this a health priority.

Care instructions

• Daily: Fold and air in well-ventilated area

• Weekly: Sun-dry on sunny days (UV kills bacteria)

• Monthly: Professional cleaning or thorough beating

• Storage: Use futon storage bags during humid months

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: the set is under a year old and stored well.

• Sell if: it's unused and still in original packaging.

• Toss if: a previous owner used it with no cleaning record.

3. Obutsudan (お仏壇), Kamidana (神棚) - Religious Altars

Traditional Japanese houses typically feature two types of altars: the Obutsudan (お仏壇) and the Kamidana (神棚).

Obutsudan (お仏壇)

An obutsudan is a wooden cabinet typically with a statue or image of Buddha, along with images of deceased family members and other religious items such as incense, candles, and offerings such as fruit or rice.

Those who use an obutsudan will light incense, recite sutras, offer food or flowers to honor the deceased and seek blessings from Buddha.

Respectful handling:

1. Contact local Buddhist temple for guidance

2. Many temples will accept unwanted altars

3. Never dispose of memorial items in regular trash

4. Consider donation to Buddhist communities

Kamidana (神棚)

Kamidana is a Shinto altar for Shinto deities. It is usually a shelf with talismans and offerings on a high wall.

People will offer food, water, and sake while bowing in prayer.

Proper removal:

1. Contact local Shinto shrine

2. Return ofuda to issuing shrine

3. Cleanse area with salt after removal

Keep, return, or retire respectfully?

• Keep if: your family will continue using it for prayer or remembrance.

• Return if: you don't practice the faith; contact the local temple or shrine.

• Never toss: dispose of memorial items through a temple or shrine only.

4. Kukurimakura (括り枕) - traditional pillows

A kukurimakura is a traditional Japanese pillow traditionally used with futons for sleeping. It was designed to keep the head elevated, promoting better sleep.

Filled with buckwheat chaff, it provides firm support for the head and neck.

However, in modern times, regular pillows are more commonly used with futons instead of the kukurimakura.

Historical background

Kukurimakura are soft pillows filled with buckwheat hulls and tied at both ends. Japanese households used them for firm, breathable support during sleep.

Edo-period Japan also used a harder pillow, the takamakura, specifically to protect elaborate hairstyles overnight. Kukurimakura offered softer, everyday support for better sleep across the household.

Modern relevance

While rarely used today, kukurimakura can be valuable antiques or curiosities. Buckwheat hulls provide excellent ventilation and conform to head shape.

Value assessment:

• Antique versions: ¥5,000-¥20,000

• Decorative interest only for most modern users

• Consider keeping as cultural artifacts

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: you want a firm, breathable pillow or a cultural keepsake.

• Sell if: it's an antique piece in solid condition.

• Toss if: the buckwheat filling smells musty or has broken down.

5. Tansu (箪笥) - traditional storage

Tansu solve a real storage problem in small akiya homes. These traditional chests and cabinets store clothing, bedding, and household items.

Tansu come in many forms, from standard chests of drawers to unique step chests known as kaidan tansu.

One specific type is the ishō tansu (衣装箪笥), which is often used to store kimono and other traditional garments that have been passed down through generations.

Types you'll encounter

Isho-dansu (衣装箪笥) - Clothing Chests

• Designed for kimono storage

• Often feature intricate metalwork

• Value: ¥20,000-¥200,000+ (antique pieces)

Kaidan-dansu (階段箪笥) - Step Chests

• Functional stairs with built-in storage

• Architectural elements, difficult to relocate

• Renovation Consideration: Structural assessments needed

Evaluation checklist

• Structural Integrity: Check for wood rot, insect damage

• Joinery: Traditional pieces often use nail-free joinery (kigumi), a sign of skilled craftsmanship

• Hardware: Original metal fittings increase value

• Provenance: Family crests or maker marks add significance

• Size: Measure doorways for removal if needed

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: the hardware and joinery are original and sound.

• Sell if: there's damage, but the craftsmanship still holds value.

• Toss if: structural damage makes safe use or repair impossible.

Where to sell/donate

• Antique dealers in nearby cities

• Online platforms: Yahoo Auctions, Mercari

• Museums or cultural centers

• International shipping for valuable pieces

Need a replacement piece instead? See where to find and buy akiya furniture below.

6. Kure-en (くれ縁), Nure-en (濡れ縁) - veranda spaces

There are two types of Japanese verandas: kure-en (くれ縁) and nure-en (濡れ縁).

Both can be translated as "veranda," with the main difference being their location—kure-en is typically enclosed or partially sheltered, while nure-en is fully exposed to the outdoors.

There is also the engawa (縁側), a traditional Japanese porch-like space that runs along the edge of a room, often facing a garden.

These areas are commonly used for sitting and relaxing while enjoying the surrounding nature and weather.

Renovation priorities

1. Structural Safety: Check support beams and flooring

2. Weather Protection: Seal gaps, repair roofing

3. Functionality: Consider modern furniture compatibility

Modern usage ideas

• Outdoor dining space

• Meditation/yoga area

• Plant growing space

• Seasonal storage

Restore, adapt, or replace?

• Restore if: support beams and flooring remain structurally sound.

• Adapt if: the space is sound but needs a modern use, like the ideas above.

• Replace if: weather damage has compromised the structure beyond repair.

7. Kotatsu (こたつ) - heated tables

A kotatsu is a low wooden table covered with a heavy blanket or futon, with a built-in heat source underneath.

What makes a kotatsu unique is its ability to provide warmth, making it a popular choice for comfort during the colder months.

People sit around the table with their legs tucked underneath the blanket to stay cozy. But be warned—it’s surprisingly easy to fall asleep under one!

If the heating element is no longer working, it's best to shop for a new and affordable kotatsu before winter arrives.

Note: Vintage kotatsu heating elements can be fire hazards. Always have electrical components inspected by certified technicians before use.

Types and pricing

• Vintage/Included: Often needs complete rewiring

• New Electric: ¥15,000-¥40,000

• Modern Table-Style: ¥25,000-¥60,000

Seasonal storage

• Summer: Disassemble, store blanket separately

• Maintenance: Annual electrical check, clean heating element

Cultural Note: Kotatsu are central to winter family life in Japan. They encourage gathering and conversation while providing efficient heating for small spaces.

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: the heating element passes a certified electrical check.

• Sell if: the table and blanket are in good shape, but you prefer a different style.

• Toss if: the vintage heating element shows wear — never risk a fire hazard.

8. Shoji (障子) - paper sliding doors

Shoji are sliding paper doors used to divide rooms while preserving privacy and natural light.

They help create flexible living spaces while allowing natural light to softly filter through. Shoji are considered a hallmark of traditional Japanese interior design, blending functionality with elegance.

Restoration vs. replacement

To decide between restoring shoji or replacing shoji, evaluate the following:

• Frame integrity (wood joints, tracking)

• Paper condition (tears, stains, UV damage)

• Hardware functionality

Pricing for repair options

• DIY Paper Replacement: ¥500-¥1,000 per panel

• Professional Restoration: ¥3,000-¥8,000 per panel

• Complete Replacement: ¥15,000-¥30,000 per set

Where to find materials

• Traditional: Washi paper from specialty shops

• Modern: Plastic sheets for durability

• Hybrid: Washi-plastic laminates

Maintenance schedule

• Monthly: Dust frame with soft brush

• Seasonally: Check for warping, sticking

• Annually: Replace paper if needed

Restore or replace?

• Restore if: the frame and joints are solid; only the paper needs work.

• Replace if: the frame has warped or the tracking no longer works.

9. Tatami (畳) - traditional floor mats

Tatami, or tatami mats, are traditional Japanese straw mats commonly used as flooring in Japanese-style rooms (washitsu).

They provide a soft, natural surface for sitting and sleeping, and are known for their distinct texture and calming aroma. While they add authentic charm to a home, damaged tatami mats should be replaced—either with new ones or with more modern alternatives like wood flooring.

Many of the furniture items found in akiya homes, such as tatami mats, futons, or even a low table with floor cushions, are also seen in Japanese apartments across the country. In modern homes, it’s not unusual to mix traditional elements with Western-style pieces—like adding a sofa for extra comfort and convenience.

Of course, you don’t need to include all of these traditional furnishings. The most important thing is to make your home a space that suits your lifestyle.

If you're planning to purchase an akiya, be sure to explore available financing options to help make the process more affordable and manageable.

Quality assessment guide

Good condition indicators:

• Firm, even surface

• Fresh, grassy aroma

• No visible mold or staining

• Tight, secure binding

Replacement needed:

• Soft spots or depression

• Musty odors

• Visible mold or pest damage

• Loose or frayed edges

Cost considerations

• New Tatami: ¥8,000-¥15,000 per mat

• Re-covering: ¥4,000-¥8,000 per mat

• Installation: ¥2,000-¥4,000 per room

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: the surface is firm, fresh-smelling, and free of mold.

• Recycle: tatami is rarely resold; some recycling centers accept old mats.

• Toss if: you see soft spots, mold, or pest damage — replace right away.

10. Hibachi (火鉢) - Traditional charcoal braziers

A hibachi is a traditional Japanese heating device that consists of a ceramic, clay, or metal container designed to hold burning charcoal. In akiya homes, you'll often find these portable heating units that were once essential for warming individual rooms before central heating became common.

Traditional hibachi come in various forms - from simple clay pots to elaborate ceramic pieces with decorative glazes, and even wooden boxes lined with metal. Some feature ash drawers underneath and decorative metalwork. They were typically placed in the center of a room, with people gathering around them for warmth while doing daily activities like reading or crafts.

Historical significance

Hibachi were crucial for survival during Japan's harsh winters, especially in rural areas. Different regions developed distinct styles, and some antique pieces can be quite valuable to collectors.

Safety considerations

Never attempt to use vintage hibachi for their original purpose, as burning charcoal indoors without proper ventilation is extremely dangerous and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Modern homes lack the ventilation systems traditional Japanese houses had.

Value assessment

Simple clay hibachi might be worth ¥2,000-¥8,000, while ornate ceramic or bronze pieces from famous kilns can be worth ¥20,000-¥100,000+ to antique collectors.

Keep, sell, or toss?

• Keep if: you want a decorative piece or a family heirloom.

• Sell if: it's an antique ceramic or bronze piece; collectors pay well.

• Toss if: it's damaged beyond repair with no collector value. Never use one for its original purpose again.

Where to find and buy akiya furniture

Not every akiya comes fully furnished, and some pieces won't be worth keeping. Not sure what to do with the stuff left behind? Japan makes furniture shopping straightforward once you know where to look.

Secondhand and reuse shops

Japan has a strong culture of reuse shops, often labeled recycle shops or antique tool shops. These shops bring new life to old furniture and offer an affordable way to furnish your house.

• Hard Off / Off House — reliable chains with locations across Japan

• Treasure Factory — a good source for big, bulky furniture pieces

• 2nd Street — hundreds of stores, plus an online shop you can browse from any browser

• Jimoty — a free, community listing site for pickup-only finds

Check photos and product details online before viewing an item in person. Many shops post videos of larger pieces, so you can confirm condition first.

Take advantage of secondhand shopping to save money on solid, ready-to-use pieces. Start your search locally, then widen it if you don't find the perfect piece nearby.

New furniture shops

If you prefer new pieces, Japan has plenty of affordable options too. IKEA offers a wide range of affordable furniture styles, from small stools to full sofas.

IKEA also aims to use only renewable or recycled materials across its range by 2030. Check IKEA's own sustainability page for its current progress toward that goal.

Nitori and Muji round out Japan's other major affordable furniture chains. For a curated interior design selection, see our full guide to the best furniture shops in Japan. It covers stores for every room, from the kitchen to the living room.

Delivery and convenience

Most shops offer delivery for a set fee, which makes furnishing a countryside akiya far more convenient. Ask about delivery costs and timing before you purchase, since rural delivery can take longer than in the city.

If you live far from a shop, online purchase with delivery is often your best option. Many national chains ship furniture to any address in Japan, no matter how remote.

Furnishing an akiya for guests or rental

Planning to rent your akiya or list it as a guesthouse? Traditional furniture creates a memorable space for guests, and it's a great way to share Japanese culture.

A tatami room, a working kotatsu, and a few zabuton go a long way. Families and friends often enjoy trying these pieces for the first time.

Keep style consistent across rooms to create a cohesive, beautiful space. Mixing tansu, tatami, and a few modern pieces can achieve a minimalist Japandi look.

Japandi blends Japanese tradition with simple Scandinavian design, and it's a popular style right now. Add curtains or modern lighting to blend traditional charm with everyday convenience.

Guests often share photos of unique interior touches, like shoji screens or a kure-en veranda. Join the growing number of foreign owners furnishing their first akiya with genuine character.

Budget planning guide for akiya furniture

Every akiya comes with its own renovation challenges. Understanding the investment ahead helps you achieve your desired result without breaking the bank.

The following budget ranges reflect real-world costs across different regions of Japan and can help you prioritize spending based on your goals—whether you're focused on basic safety and comfort, preserving cultural heritage, or creating a modern hybrid living space.

These investments often pay dividends in both daily comfort and property value, especially if you plan to rent or resell your akiya in the future.

Initial assessment budget: ¥50,000-¥100,000

• Professional furniture/antique evaluation

• Electrical safety inspection

• Structural assessment for built-ins

Essential replacements: ¥100,000-¥300,000

• New futon set and bedding

• Tatami replacement (if needed)

• Basic zabuton and kotatsu

Cultural preservation: ¥50,000-¥500,000+

• Professional restoration of valuable tansu

• Shoji repair and maintenance

• Antique preservation

Modern adaptations: ¥200,000-¥500,000

• Hybrid flooring solutions

• Modern furniture integration

• Climate control improvements

Frequently asked questions

What are the ongoing maintenance costs I should expect for traditional furniture?

Traditional Japanese furniture requires regular maintenance to preserve both function and appearance. Tatami mats need annual inspection and replacement every 5-10 years depending on use, costing ¥8,000-¥15,000 per mat. Shoji screens require paper replacement every 1-2 years at ¥500-¥1,000 per panel if done yourself, or ¥3,000-¥8,000 professionally. Futon bedding needs seasonal cleaning and storage, with complete replacement every 5-7 years. Kotatsu heating elements require annual electrical inspections for safety. Budget approximately ¥30,000-¥80,000 annually for maintenance across all traditional furniture pieces, though costs vary significantly based on the condition and quantity of items in your home.

Are there any legal or cultural obligations regarding religious furniture found in akiya?

Religious furniture requires respectful and culturally appropriate handling, though there are no strict legal obligations for foreign akiya owners. For Buddhist altars (obutsudan), contact local Buddhist temples who can guide proper handling and often accept donations of unwanted altars. Never dispose of memorial items or religious artifacts in regular trash, as this is considered deeply disrespectful. Shinto altars (kamidana) should have their ofuda (sacred tablets) returned to the issuing shrine, and the area should be cleansed with salt after removal. Many temples and shrines are understanding of foreign buyers' situations and will provide guidance on appropriate handling, often free of charge.

How do I handle furniture that's too large to remove from the house?

Some traditional furniture pieces, particularly kaidan-dansu (step chests) and large tansu, may be built into the structure or too large for modern doorways. Before attempting removal, measure all doorways, stairwells, and the furniture dimensions carefully. For valuable pieces, consider partial disassembly by experienced carpenters who understand traditional joinery techniques. If removal isn't feasible, these pieces can become attractive architectural features or selling points for your property. Document their presence for insurance purposes and consider incorporating them into your renovation plans, as built-in storage solutions are valuable in Japanese homes and can significantly enhance property appeal.

How do I dispose of large furniture I don't want?

Large furniture and other unwanted things count as sodai gomi (粗大ゴミ), or bulk waste, in Japan. Contact your local ward office to schedule a pickup and confirm the fee.

Most municipalities charge a small sticker fee per item, based on size. Book early — pickup days fill up fast, especially the week before a move.

Donation or resale often beats disposal for furniture in good shape. Check secondhand shops or online platforms first, since many buyers want authentic akiya pieces.

What should I do if I want to sell valuable traditional furniture pieces?

Research the market value before selling by consulting multiple sources including local antique dealers, online platforms like Yahoo Auctions, and professional appraisers. High-quality tansu chests, especially those with original hardware and craftsmanship details, can command significant prices from collectors both domestically and internationally. Consider the costs of restoration versus selling as-is, and factor in transportation costs for large pieces. Museums and cultural centers sometimes accept donations of significant pieces, which may provide tax benefits. For international sales, research export regulations and shipping costs, as some valuable pieces find eager buyers among collectors in many countries who appreciate authentic Japanese craftsmanship.

In closing

Most of these akiya furniture items can be seen in Japanese apartments and houses in and out of the city. 

Of course, you don't have to have these items in your home. Make your home a comfortable living space.

If you are purchasing an akiya, consider the available financing options to make the process more affordable and manageable.