Japan man works as janitor despite earning Rs 2 crore yearly. Locals call him 'invisible millionaire'

Although he is financially among the wealthiest residents of the building where he works, he reportedly avoids displaying wealth or seeking attention.

Koichi Matsubara, a 56-year-old resident of Tokyo, drew attention in Japan after it became known that he chose to work as a janitor despite having substantial income from rental properties and financial investments. Reports indicate that Matsubara earns in excess of 30 million yen (around Rs 1.81 crore) each year through rents and returns on his portfolio.

According to coverage by The Gold Online, he has been employed part-time in a residential block, carrying out cleaning of shared spaces and undertaking basic upkeep. He reportedly works three days a week in four-hour shifts, receiving roughly 100,000 yen (Rs 60,000 approximately) per month. By comparison, the average monthly salary in Tokyo stood at about 350,000 yen (Rs 2,11,000 approximately), as referenced by South China Morning Post.

Matsubara explained that his decision to continue physical work was based on lifestyle preferences rather than financial need. He maintained that the routine helped him remain active and in good health and that he derived a sense of fulfilment from ensuring the property was well maintained. He also emphasised his preference for modest living, remarking that “living simply makes me feel really good.”

Although he is financially among the wealthiest residents of the building where he works, he reportedly avoids displaying wealth or seeking attention. His quiet approach earned him the description “invisible millionaire” in local media.

“I have always hoped to live off my own assets,” he told South China Morning Post.

Matsubara grew up in a single-parent household and began his working life immediately after secondary school, taking up employment in a factory for a monthly wage of around 180,000 yen (approximately Rs 1,08,871). By exercising strict control over his spending, he was able to save nearly three million yen (Rs 18,14,520 approximately) within a few years, which became the basis for his first property purchase — a small studio flat.

“The housing market had bottomed out at that time. I took steps to avoid vacancy and paid off the mortgage early, gradually increasing my properties,” he said.

Over time, Matsubara added to his holdings and ultimately acquired seven rental flats across Tokyo and its surrounding areas. He also diversified into equities and investment funds. Despite this financial position, he continued to favour a restrained and practical lifestyle, reinforcing his belief that contentment was not dependent on visible luxury.