What I Love About Living In Japan
What I Love About Living in JapanBy someone who came for the adventure — and stayed for the rhythm of life. When I first moved to Japan, I thought I was coming for the temples, the sushi, and maybe a bit of anime nostalgia. I didn’t expect to fall in love with the quiet everyday […]
Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Japan
Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Japan Moving to Japan is a dream for many — the culture, the food, the stunning landscapes, and unique way of life all draw people from around the world. But as exciting as it is, living in Japan comes with surprises you don’t always see coming. Looking […]
How to Make a Strong Offer on a Japanese Property
How to Make a Strong Offer on a Japanese Property (Even from Abroad) Tips for Foreign Buyers Looking to Successfully Secure Real Estate in Japan Buying property in Japan is a dream for many — from modern condos in central Tokyo to rural “akiya” (abandoned homes) ripe for renovation. But once you’ve found that perfect […]
Can I Own a House in Japan on a Tourist Visa?
Can I Own a House in Japan on a Tourist Visa? Everything You Need to Know About Buying Property in Japan as a Foreign Visitor Japan’s mix of ancient tradition and futuristic cities makes it one of the most attractive places in the world to own real estate. Whether it’s a mountain retreat in Nagano, […]
How Much Does It Really Cost To Own a Home in Japan?
1. How Much Does it Really Cost To Own A Home in Japan? Understanding the True Cost of Japanese Homeownership Owning a home in Japan is a dream for many—be it a modern condo in Tokyo or a traditional home in the countryside. However, the sticker price on a Japanese property is just the beginning. […]
Should You Buy an Akiya Sight Unseen?
Should You Buy an Akiya Sight Unseen? The Pros and Cons In Japan, the concept of purchasing an akiya—an abandoned or vacant house—has captured the attention of many prospective buyers, particularly those seeking a unique property at an incredibly low price. Many akiya properties are being sold for minimal costs by local governments looking to […]
Buying an Akiya in Japan from Overseas
Buying an Akiya in Japan from Overseas: A Guide for Foreign Buyers In recent years, the concept of purchasing an akiya (an abandoned house) in Japan has become increasingly popular, particularly among foreign buyers seeking a unique investment opportunity or a getaway in a tranquil rural area. The Japanese government and local municipalities are offering […]
Can Foreigners Really Own Property in Japan?
Can Foreigners Own Property in Japan? A Complete Guide Japan is one of the few countries in Asia where foreigners can legally and fully own property. Whether you’re dreaming of a seaside retreat, a cozy mountain cabin, or a quiet countryside fixer-upper, Japan’s real estate market offers opportunities — especially with the rise of akiya […]
So you moved to Japan, now what?
So you moved to Japan, now what? When I moved to Japan in early 2025, I thought I was prepared but I was wrong. It was a lot more complicated and involved than I initially thought. This guide aims to provide you the insights I wish I knew before moving to Japan. 1. Get the […]
Why are houses in Japan so cheap?
Why Some Houses in Japan Are Surprisingly Cheap: The Akiya Phenomenon While Japan’s major cities see rising property prices, a parallel reality exists across the country’s rural areas and smaller towns: millions of houses sitting empty, often selling for shockingly low prices—sometimes under $10,000. These properties, known as “akiya”, tell a story of demographic shift, […]