Summer Chiller: Jiko Bukken - Part One

As August comes to a close, the lingering warmth of summer days begins to wane. Allow me to regale you with yet another chilling tale that will surely send shivers down your spine.

 In Japan, when someone passes away without anyone present, it is referred to as kodokushi, or "lonely death." There is a certain tragic and melancholic tone surrounding the word kodokushi, which maintains the mysterious connection between loneliness and death. Did loneliness lead to death, or was it merely the backdrop to the inevitable? Approximately 32,000 individuals in Japan pass away in what is known as "lonely death" annually, which equates to roughly one death every sixteen minutes. Occasionally, the bodies of individuals who pass away without anyone present are only discovered weeks or even months later, although the majority are typically found within a span of two or three days. Typically, the deceased is an older individual who frequently resides alone following the passing of their partner.

When individuals pass away in solitude, their final moments remain shrouded in mystery. Without any witnesses or loved ones present, the truth about their death and even their true identity often remains unknown.

Jiko bukken, literally "stigmatized property," is the Japanese term for any piece of real estate that has been the site of a horrific incident, be it a suicide, a murder, or any other kind of violent crime. In Japanese culture, there is a strong belief in curses and hauntings associated with certain properties. As a result, these places are often stigmatized and seen as undesirable by potential buyers or renters. As a result, jiko bukken are often sold or rented out at a significantly lower price than other properties in the same area, and they may remain vacant for long periods of time. However, some people see them as an opportunity to get a good deal on a property, especially if they don’t believe in the superstitions surrounding such places.

On October 8, 2021, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) unveiled new guidelines regarding jiko bukken. As per the guidelines, a jiko bukken refers to a property where a death occurred that was not natural or accidental, or a death that necessitates “special cleaning.” Within these properties, there have been instances of suicides or murders, as well as situations where specialized cleaning was necessary, even in cases of natural or accidental deaths.

When it comes to real estate transactions, it is crucial for real estate agents to disclose any potential "defects" in a property to potential tenants or buyers. The Building Lots and Buildings Transaction Business Law requires the disclosure of important facts, such as the classification of a property as a jiko bukken.

After spending a number of years studying abroad at Columbia University and with an MBA under his belt, Yasu Matsumoto has just joined the prestigious Tokyo real estate firm Blackship Realty. Despite lacking extensive experience in real estate sales, Yasu is driven and determined to leave a lasting mark on society. His ability to quickly grasp new concepts has propelled him to become one of the top three salesmen in his local branch office.

At three o'clock in the afternoon, Yasu eagerly awaits the arrival of his next appointment. Having perused their profile sheet, he discovered that they are a newly engaged couple in search of their first “mansion.” As he sits at his desk, Yasu has a number of folders stacked on his right. The folders contain property listings which he meticulously assembled for his clients with the hope of closing a sale as soon as possible.

As the clock strikes three, the door chime rings out. A young couple in their early twenties enters the real estate office. Yasu rises from his seat and warmly welcomes them, gesturing for them to take a seat in front of the desk. The scene unfolds with the office secretary delicately setting down small cups of green tea before the couple, offering a respectful bow before gracefully departing. His hands confidently folded in front of him, Yasu listens as the woman's voice fills the air. She shares with Yasu that both she and her fiancee have resided with their families throughout their college years. Embarking on a new chapter, they find themselves venturing away from the familiar comforts of home for the first time. She shares with him that despite their limited funds, they dream of finding a beautiful mansion to start their married life and build a family. The man mentions their preference for a location close to the train station and with excellent schools. The woman enthusiastically expresses her desire for a home filled with abundant sunlight and a well-equipped kitchen, as she has a passion for cooking.

With great excitement, Yasu selects the third folder and eagerly flips through its pages, searching for the perfect match to meet their requirements. With a sense of satisfaction, he turns the folder over and carefully positions it in front of the couple. They both look down with anticipation. Behold, there lies a magnificent mansion in Meguro-ku, boasting three bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, and a kitchen. This grand abode is situated a mere nine-minute stroll away from the Ikejiriohashi Station. Perched on the highest level of a five-story structure, this particular floor is blessed with an abundance of warm sunlight that streams in throughout the day. The woman gazes at her fiancee with a sparkle in her eyes, eagerly awaiting his reaction. However, her excitement quickly fades as he lets out a groan upon seeing the hefty price tag of ¥210,000,000. He inquires of Yasu if there is anything available at a lower price.

Feeling let down by the man's reply, Yasu reaches for another folder from the stack and begins flipping through its pages. He finds it! Located in charming Meguro, this exquisite 3LDK mansion was built in 2005. With its prime location, it is just an 8-minute stroll away from Yutenji Station. The living room has magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing an abundance of natural light to flood the space. The price tag is ¥182,000,000. The woman's smile remains, while the man persists inquiring about more affordable options.

Just as Yasu reached for another folder, the woman glanced at her watch and announced that she had to leave for work. Her fiancee reassures her, urging her to leave without worry. With utmost confidence, he assures her that he will take care of everything. With a hint of concern on her face, she musters a small smile before she takes her leave.

As soon as she is out of sight, the fiancee locks eyes with Yasu and poses an unexpected question. Curious, he asks if there are any “special” listings available. Yasu feigns ignorance, refusing to acknowledge the man's inquiry. The man leans in, his voice dropping to a hushed tone. "You know, those special spots that hold a certain kind of value. Every real estate agency has them." Yasu understands what the man is implying with great clarity. He is inquiring about the "jiko bukken." With hesitation, he pauses and enquires about his fiancee's opinion. With a self-assured chuckle, the man dismisses the situation, assuring Yasu that it will remain "our little secret." He leans back in his chair and declares, “I am in search of a great bargain!”

Yasu politely excuses himself and heads towards the back room, where the files are stored. With a flourish, he produces a set of keys from his pocket and deftly unlocks the cabinet door. In the cabinet lies a trove of crimson file folders. Gently gliding his finger over the spines of the folders, he comes to a halt at one in particular. The one just before the last on the right. With a sense of curiosity, he retrieves the folder and begins to flip through its pages. With unwavering certainty, he emerges from the back room to join the client.

As Yasu approaches, a smile spreads across the client's face. Yasu carefully positions the folder on the table, ready to unveil its contents. With a confident gesture, he reveals the listing, inviting his client to take a closer look. This exquisite residence is located in Aobadai, Meguro-ku.  A mere five-minute walk to the Nakameguro Station. The cost is only  ¥63,800,000. The client springs up from his seat and exclaims, "Yes! Here we are! Oh, this is the one.” Yasu asks the client if he would like to know what transpired in that place. The client shakes his head, dismissing the importance of the matter. He has no interest in knowing, as he does not believe in superstitions. All he desires is a good deal!

Yasu, with an indifferent expression, sets up a meeting for the couple to examine the mansion.

To be continued….