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Akiya Doers and Dreamers Series: Interview with Matt Guy (@im.mattguy)
In this episode of the Buying a House in Japan podcast, recorded live from Niigata's Lyme Hotel, hosts chat with Matt Guy, a Japan travel expert who transitioned from Fremont, California, to Myoko, Japan. Matt shares his journey of purchasing and renovating a $6,000 house, tackling challenges such as winter heating, insulation, and snow maintenance. The discussion delves into practical aspects of Japanese real estate, banking, and community integration. Matt also offers cultural insights, detailing local events, communal snow clearing efforts, language learning experiences, and enjoying local attractions like hot springs and dinosaur museums. This episode provides valuable information on adapting to rural Japanese life and the unique rewards and challenges it presents.
00:00 Why I Moved to Japan
00:31 Special Guest Introduction
01:53 First Impressions of the House
02:38 Challenges of Snow in Miyoko
04:01 Journey to Miyoko
09:24 Buying a House in Japan
11:03 Renovation Experiences
17:35 Community and Neighbors
23:38 Finding the Perfect Property
29:44 Navigating the Purchase Process
30:53 Challenges of Japanese Banking
32:36 First Winter and Renovation Challenges
34:52 Snow Maintenance Tips
39:44 Winter Road Conditions
41:47 Natural Disasters in Japan
45:39 Exploring Japan's Ski Areas
55:51 Living in Japan: Community and Culture
58:28 Outro and Social Media
Published on 1 year, 1 month ago