Article Ranking

Can a foreigner purchase property in Japan?

Against the backdrop of a weakened yen, an increase in foreign tourists, and a rise in the number of foreign residents, there is a growing trend of real estate purchases in Japan by foreigners.

Earthquake Resistance of Buildings in Japan — What to Know

Buying or renting a home in Tokyo? Worried about earthquakes? Learn about earthquake-proof buildings in Japan, from safety codes to structural types and risks.

Land Use Zones under the City Planning Law in Japan

An explanation of the different Land Use Zones regulated under the City Planning Law in Japan and how this affects properties in the area.

Capital Gains Tax on Property Sales in Japan

This guide explains the calculation of capital gains tax and other relevant taxes and deductions for real estate sales in Japan.

English-Speaking Real Estate Agents in Japan

Finding English-speaking real estate agents in Japan outside of major cities can be tough. Here's a list arranged by prefecture from north to south.

Japan's Real Estate Market 2024-2025: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

Japan’s real estate market remains strong, attracting global investors with high liquidity and stable yields. This report covers key trends in office, residential, and logistics sectors, highlighting Tokyo, Osaka, and regional cities. Topics include rising foreign investment, sustainability initiatives, hybrid work trends, and evolving market challenges. Stay ahead with strategic insights into Japan’s dynamic property landscape.

Renting an Apartment in Japan: A Guide for Foreigners

Planning on renting an apartment in Tokyo? This starter guide for foreigners will help you avoid common pitfalls, learn key customs, and know they key terms.

Floor-Area Ratio (FAR) and Building Coverage Ratio (BCR) in Japan

Explanation of Japanese Floor-Area Ratio (FAR) and Building Coverage Ratio (BCR). A description of the different land use zones and restrictions that apply in Japan and what kind of property can be built on them.

Market rent in Tokyo’s 23 wards by Types of Floor plans

This article provides information on rent prices in the 23 wards of Tokyo as of 1 March 2023, by layout type. The transition of rent prices is also explained.

Official Land Prices of Japan in 2025 – Tokyo’s prices see increase for 4th Consecutive year both in Commercial Areas and Residential Areas

A Simple Guide to Home Insurance in Japan

Living in Japan and want to protect your property? From basic coverage, costs and English-speaking agencies, here is a guide to home insurance in Japan.

Housing Loan Tax Deduction

You will learn how the housing loan tax deduction works, the eligibility criteria for the housing loan tax deduction, income-based simulations, and the required documents for the application process, providing a clear understanding of housing loan tax deductions.

2nd Roppongi Hills (Roppongi 5-chome Project)　completion in 2030 – Roppongi will be an even more attractive town! -

The outline of the "Roppongi 5-chome District West Area Redevelopment," also known as "Roppongi Hills 2," has been revealed. This redevelopment project encompasses a vast area adjacent to Roppongi Hills. We explain the development details that have been publicly disclosed at this point.

Official Land Prices of Japan in 2024 – Tokyo’s prices see increase for 3rd Consecutive year both in Commercial Areas and Residential Areas

On March 26, 2024, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism announced the official land prices as of January 1, 2024. The data for 2024 shows a 2.3% increase nationwide (1.6% in 2023) in the fluctuation of the average prices for all types of land zoning, and the rate of increase has become the highest in 33 years since the bubble economy period. In “Commercial areas”, the national average land price fluctuation rose by 3.1% (1.8% in 2023), and in “Residential areas” the same price fluctuation rose by 2.0% (1.4% in 2023).

Guide to Japanese apartment layout terms

Floor plans in Japanese apartments are often written in English or in abbreviations, but there are many words that foreigners may not understand when they see them. This article explains the meaning of Japanese floor plans, the difference between Western and Japanese floor plans, the definition of bedrooms, and the meaning of floor plan abbreviations.

The Brand-New "Homat Sharon" units (3-5BR) are available for RENT!

The new Homat Sharon was completed in June 2021 on a vast 6,085-square-meter site that included the former Homat Sharon and adjacent land to the east. Units (3-5BR) are available for RENT!

Tokyo Interior Design Services with English-friendly Agents

Are you in need of an interior designer in Tokyo? Be it your home or office, these English speaking interior design firms can design your space to suit your preferences and needs without worrying about any language barriers.

Expat Living in Tokyo: Navigating the Rental Housing Market

Discover the essential tips for finding expat-friendly apartments in Tokyo. Learn about key features, popular neighborhoods, and the rental process in Japan's capital.

Lease Guarantor Services in Japan

In many lease agreements in Japan, it is necessary to come up with a joint guarantor or a guarantor company at the time of conclusion of these agreements. In this article, we will explain the role of a guarantor company, documents required for examination, average guarantor fee, etc. We will also provide you with a list of guarantor companies that offer customer support in English and other foreign languages.

Azabudai Hills Residence: Tokyo's Modern Urban Village

Azabudai Hills offers luxury living, vibrant green spaces, and top amenities in central Tokyo. Discover why it's an ideal residential choice for Tokyo expats!

Can a foreigner purchase property in Japan?

Against the backdrop of a weakened yen, an increase in foreign tourists, and a rise in the number of foreign residents, there is a growing trend of real estate purchases in Japan by foreigners.

Earthquake Resistance of Buildings in Japan — What to Know

Buying or renting a home in Tokyo? Worried about earthquakes? Learn about earthquake-proof buildings in Japan, from safety codes to structural types and risks.

Land Use Zones under the City Planning Law in Japan

An explanation of the different Land Use Zones regulated under the City Planning Law in Japan and how this affects properties in the area.

English-Speaking Real Estate Agents in Japan

Finding English-speaking real estate agents in Japan outside of major cities can be tough. Here's a list arranged by prefecture from north to south.

Japan's Real Estate Market 2024-2025: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

Japan’s real estate market remains strong, attracting global investors with high liquidity and stable yields. This report covers key trends in office, residential, and logistics sectors, highlighting Tokyo, Osaka, and regional cities. Topics include rising foreign investment, sustainability initiatives, hybrid work trends, and evolving market challenges. Stay ahead with strategic insights into Japan’s dynamic property landscape.

Floor-Area Ratio (FAR) and Building Coverage Ratio (BCR) in Japan

Explanation of Japanese Floor-Area Ratio (FAR) and Building Coverage Ratio (BCR). A description of the different land use zones and restrictions that apply in Japan and what kind of property can be built on them.

Capital Gains Tax on Property Sales in Japan

This guide explains the calculation of capital gains tax and other relevant taxes and deductions for real estate sales in Japan.

Renting an Apartment in Japan: A Guide for Foreigners

Planning on renting an apartment in Tokyo? This starter guide for foreigners will help you avoid common pitfalls, learn key customs, and know they key terms.

Azabudai Hills Residence: Tokyo's Modern Urban Village

Azabudai Hills offers luxury living, vibrant green spaces, and top amenities in central Tokyo. Discover why it's an ideal residential choice for Tokyo expats!

A Simple Guide to Home Insurance in Japan

Living in Japan and want to protect your property? From basic coverage, costs and English-speaking agencies, here is a guide to home insurance in Japan.

Market rent in Tokyo’s 23 wards by Types of Floor plans

This article provides information on rent prices in the 23 wards of Tokyo as of 1 March 2023, by layout type. The transition of rent prices is also explained.

Housing Loan Tax Deduction

You will learn how the housing loan tax deduction works, the eligibility criteria for the housing loan tax deduction, income-based simulations, and the required documents for the application process, providing a clear understanding of housing loan tax deductions.

Guide to Japanese apartment layout terms

Floor plans in Japanese apartments are often written in English or in abbreviations, but there are many words that foreigners may not understand when they see them. This article explains the meaning of Japanese floor plans, the difference between Western and Japanese floor plans, the definition of bedrooms, and the meaning of floor plan abbreviations.

Architecture Firms / Architects in Japan

English-speaking architects and architectural offices, that understand Japanese real estate including its characteristics and various related laws, and that you can consult in English as well.

2nd Roppongi Hills (Roppongi 5-chome Project)　completion in 2030 – Roppongi will be an even more attractive town! -

The outline of the "Roppongi 5-chome District West Area Redevelopment," also known as "Roppongi Hills 2," has been revealed. This redevelopment project encompasses a vast area adjacent to Roppongi Hills. We explain the development details that have been publicly disclosed at this point.

Official Land Prices of Japan in 2025 – Tokyo’s prices see increase for 4th Consecutive year both in Commercial Areas and Residential Areas

Furnished Apartments in Tokyo: A Guide to Short-Term Monthly Rentals

Furnished apartments in Tokyo are becoming increasingly popular for short-term rentals. With the rise of flexible work styles and more foreign visitors, these fully furnished apartments cater to business travelers, digital nomads, and tourists. Many now offer English support, making them a convenient option for international guests. This guide covers their features and benefits.

Official Land Prices of Japan in 2024 – Tokyo’s prices see increase for 3rd Consecutive year both in Commercial Areas and Residential Areas

On March 26, 2024, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism announced the official land prices as of January 1, 2024. The data for 2024 shows a 2.3% increase nationwide (1.6% in 2023) in the fluctuation of the average prices for all types of land zoning, and the rate of increase has become the highest in 33 years since the bubble economy period. In “Commercial areas”, the national average land price fluctuation rose by 3.1% (1.8% in 2023), and in “Residential areas” the same price fluctuation rose by 2.0% (1.4% in 2023).

The Brand-New "Homat Sharon" units (3-5BR) are available for RENT!

The new Homat Sharon was completed in June 2021 on a vast 6,085-square-meter site that included the former Homat Sharon and adjacent land to the east. Units (3-5BR) are available for RENT!

Putting Holes in Rented Apartment Walls in Japan

You may be wondering if it is allowed to drill holes in the walls of rented properties in Japan, and if so, what size holes are permitted. You may or may not be responsible for the cost of restoration of the property depending on the size of the hole. Find out how to decorate your apartment's walls, what precautions you need to take before putting a hole, and what happens if you drill or make a large hole in the walls.