Cheap apartment, no AC: Japanese man saves nearly Rs 4 crore living frugally, but regrets missing life’s joys

For decades, a Japanese man lived with extreme frugality, saving 65 million yen (about Rs 3.90 crore). At 67, he admits he regrets putting money above life’s simple joys, especially after his wife’s death.

Written by Shubham Chhabra

Updated: September 29, 2025 15:38 IST

Known only by the alias Suzuki, the Japanese man grew up in poverty and began earning in secondary school by working in restaurants.

For decades, a Japanese man lived with extreme frugality, managing to save 65 million yen (about US$440,000 or Rs 3.90 crore). Today, at 67, with nearly Rs 4 crore in retirement savings still intact, he admits he regrets putting money above life’s simple joys, especially after the death of his wife.

A Life of Relentless Saving

Known only by the alias Suzuki, he grew up in poverty and began earning in secondary school by working in restaurants. Once employed full time, he chose a cheap apartment far from work to reduce expenses.

He relied on homemade meals, often packing bean sprouts and chicken in his lunchbox. For years, he avoided restaurants entirely, cycled or walked instead of using transport, and rarely switched on the air-conditioner to save on electricity bills.

Family, Sacrifice and Regret

Suzuki met his wife at work. She was familiar with his cautious approach to money, and together they raised a child. He admits his saving habits softened slightly after parenthood, but austerity remained a central part of his lifestyle.

Now, after his wife’s passing, Suzuki reflects with regret. “But time cannot be turned back. What is the meaning of life with only money left?” he said, according to THE GOLD ONLINE.