The highly anticipated manga adaptation, titled "I Bought a 75-Year-Old House with a Hot Spring for 980,000 Yen in Izu" (also known as "I bought a 75-year-old house with a hot spring for 980,000 yen"), featuring the captivating artwork by Yamabuki based on the true reportage by novelist En Takadono, officially launched today, April 15th.
This unique work brings to life the real-world experiences of novelist and seasoned reporter En Takadono. Known for his extensive travels and insightful reportage across the globe, Takadono found his adventurous spirit grounded by the unforeseen circumstances of the global coronavirus pandemic. Confined and seeking a new direction, he began to envision a tranquil escape – a second home that would include his beloved hot springs. With an ambitious budget of just 1 million yen for the property itself, and a total ceiling of 3 million yen including renovation costs, Takadono embarked on a quest for an idyllic retreat. His criteria were clear: a second house boasting its own hot spring, ideally with a picturesque ocean view. The manga charmingly illustrates Takadono's journey, detailing the hurdles and discoveries that ultimately led him to purchase a remarkable 75-year-old apartment, complete with its own natural hot spring, in the scenic Izu region for an astonishingly low price of 980,000 yen.
The Izu Peninsula, famous for its picturesque coastlines, lush mountains, and particularly its abundant natural hot springs (onsen), serves as the perfect backdrop for Takadono's unique adventure. The concept of purchasing a 'kominka' – a traditional Japanese house – especially one with the added luxury of a private onsen, holds immense appeal for many seeking an escape from bustling city life. Takadono's stringent budget and desire for both a hot spring and an ocean view made his search particularly challenging, yet ultimately rewarding. The manga not only tells the story of a property acquisition but also delves into the charm of rural Japanese living, the challenges of renovating an older home, and the unexpected joys of community. It taps into a growing trend of individuals re-evaluating their lifestyles and seeking more sustainable or fulfilling ways of living, a sentiment amplified during the recent global health crisis.
To celebrate this exciting release, fans in Japan can look forward to special promotional posters adorning major transportation hubs in the Izu area, specifically at Atami Station, Ito Station, and Shuzenji Station. These captivating visuals will be on display until May 4th, inviting commuters and tourists alike to delve into Takadono's fascinating story. In an additional treat for enthusiasts, a special voice comic adaptation has been produced, bringing the narrative to life through sound. This audio drama features an impressive cast of talented voice actors (seiyuu): the esteemed Rena Hasegawa lends her voice to the protagonist, En Takadono; Tsugumi Sakuragi takes on the role of the insightful narrator; and Natsuko Hara portrays the character of Yutero Omikami. This voice comic is set to be released for three consecutive days, commencing today, offering an immersive auditory experience for the manga's debut.
This manga offers more than just a real estate tale; it's a heartwarming narrative about finding solace, pursuing a dream against the odds, and rediscovering the simple pleasures of life in a beautiful setting. For anyone who has ever dreamed of owning a unique property or escaping the daily grind, "I Bought a 75-Year-Old House with a Hot Spring for 980,000 Yen in Izu" promises an inspiring and delightful read. Don't miss the chance to follow En Takadono's remarkable journey, whether through the pages of the manga or the immersive experience of the voice comic.
