How To Get A Drivers License In Japan

How to Get A Drivers License in Japan Japan is well known for their efficient and affordable public transportation but if you want to explore off the beaten path, you’ll need a car or motorcycle. There are two common ways people obtain a drivers license in Japan. First, you can attend a drivers school but […]

What I Love About Living In Japan

What I Love About Living in Japan Before moving to Japan, I took a long three month vacation to make sure I was ready to sell everything and move across the world to a new country. I wanted to be sure that the grass was actually greener on the other side. Today marks the six […]

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 people. It could be for the culture, the beautiful landscapes, a lower cost of living, or a new adventure. Looking back, here are some things I wish I knew before making the leap, with a few personal stories […]

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 […]