56-year-old man earns nearly Rs 1.8 crore a year from investments, yet continues working as a janitor; but why?

In Tokyo, a 56-year-old man named Koichi Matsubara has sparked widespread discussion after his unusual lifestyle was highlighted in a report by The Gold Online and later shared by the South China Morning Post. Despite earning nearly 30 million yen (about ₹1.8 crore) annually from real estate and investments, Matsubara continues to work part-time as a janitor.

For him, the humble job is not about income but about health, discipline, and a sense of purpose.

A modest job with hidden wealth

Matsubara spends about four hours, three days a week, cleaning public areas and carrying out small maintenance tasks in a residential block. His janitorial salary is modest—around 100,000 yen (₹56,000) per month, far lower than Tokyo’s average monthly salary of 350,000 yen. Yet, behind his work uniform lies the financial portfolio of a millionaire.


Today, he owns seven rental apartments across Tokyo and its suburbs, alongside stock and fund investments that generate his multimillion-yen income each year.

From frugal beginnings to financial freedom

Matsubara’s journey is rooted in resilience. Raised in a single-parent household, he grew up with limited means and learned the art of saving early. After finishing secondary school, he worked in a factory with a modest monthly salary of 180,000 yen (₹1.1 lakh). Through strict financial discipline, he saved three million yen and purchased his first studio apartment at a time when housing prices had dipped.

“I took steps to avoid vacancy and paid off the mortgage early, gradually increasing my properties,” he recalled in his interview with The Gold Online. Over the years, this strategy turned him into what many call an “invisible millionaire.”

A simple life by choice

Despite his wealth, Matsubara’s lifestyle remains starkly minimalist. He rents a cheap apartment, cooks his meals, has not bought new clothes in over a decade, and prefers cycling to commuting by car. He uses a basic smartphone, avoids luxury, and says he has no desire to flaunt his fortune.

“Every morning, I wake up, clean, and make everything neat. It feels really good,” he explained, adding that working with his hands keeps him active and mentally refreshed.

A philosophy that resonates

Matsubara’s story has struck a chord online, where many praised his financial wisdom and balanced outlook. Social media comments ranged from admiration for his rational money management to respect for his dedication to staying grounded.

“Do not ever underestimate a cleaner or a server. An invisible millionaire could be right next to you,” one online user remarked.

With nearly two decades of work experience, Matsubara looks forward to drawing his pension at 60 while continuing to live simply. “I hope to have something to do every day, stay healthy, and think for myself,” he said.