In Japan, tattoos are still widely taboo. Japanese tattoos (入れ墨) are deeply tied to historical punishment and criminality, setting them apart from global tattoo traditions. In the Edo period, tattoos marked criminals with symbols or words denoting their crimes, fostering a…

Vending machines are everywhere in Japan. It is because of the exceptional public safety. Low crime rates and a cultural respect for public property allow vending machines to be installed in diverse locations, from city centers to rural areas, with minimal risk of vandalism or…

From January to March, it is often considered the best time to buy real estate in Japan. This is because many sellers and real estate agents aim to close deals by March 31, the fiscal year-end. To meet their targets, they may lower prices or be more flexible in negotiations,…

Explaining the concept of Omotenashi can be quite challenging, even for native Japanese speakers. To me, it means showing respect and genuine care for others. For instance, in the U.S., a cashier at a convenience store might simply hand me a bag and expect me to pack my items…

Typical Japanese controversy, Tokyo vs Osaka. They are Japan’s two most prominent cities, each with distinct roles that complement and compete with one another. Tokyo serves as the nation’s political and economic center, attracting global businesses and tourists with its…

The Land Brokers(地面師たち) became a phenomenon in Japan. it is a drama based on the real estate fraud, where a group of fraudsters impersonated property owners to deceive a major housing company, resulting in a loss of approximately $36.2 million (¥5.55 billion). This incident…

Background of 0 yen akiya. Notable trend has emerged where properties are being listed for free, reflecting the challenges of owning real estate in certain areas. This phenomenon is particularly evident in rural regions, where vacant lots and old houses are offered at no cost.…

Akiya market is growing. 2023 Housing and Land Survey reveals a record 9 million vacant homes, with a national vacancy rate of 13.8%. Notably, Saitama Prefecture boasts the lowest vacancy rate at 9.3%, indicating robust housing demand. In contrast, Tokushima Prefecture faces the…

Real estate market is booming in Tokyo now, marking the highest price level in post-war. But still one-third the price of those in New York City. buff.ly/3YNfydZ

The autumn foliage season "koyo(紅葉)" is a highly anticipated time in Japan when leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This natural display begins in the northern regions, starting in Hokkaido in late September, and gradually moves southward, reaching the Tokyo…

If you are buying an old wooden house in Japan, beware of termites. They are a serious threat to wooden structures, particularly in Japan’s humid climate, where they thrive. They can cause extensive damage by consuming wood from the inside out, weakening buildings and leading to…

Hinoki wood（檜） is one of Japan's most valuable and expensive building materials, especially prized in traditional architecture. Known for its exceptional durability and natural pest resistance, Hinoki’s beautiful grain and soothing aroma bring elegance and comfort to any…

A "Bunkyo district（文教区）" is a term often used in Japan to refer to areas typically located near reputable schools, universities, and educational institutions. They are well-regarded for their calm and safe environments, making them ideal for families and those seeking a…

Here's what you need to know: 1️⃣ No restrictions on property ownership for foreigners 2️⃣ 'Key money' (礼金) is a common upfront fee when renting 3️⃣ Most apartments come unfurnished 4️⃣ Earthquake-resistant buildings are highly valued 5️⃣ A guarantor is often required for renting

Japanese real estate remains comparatively affordable on a global scale, especially when compared to countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In Tokyo, the average price per square meter in prime residential areas is around $15,000, whereas in cities like…

Understanding Japan’s unique culture and lifestyle requires patience and adaptability. Even locals find it challenging, as customs influence everything, including home designs, which may lack Western-style insulation or ovens. In smaller towns, community engagement is highly…

Japan’s real estate market is experiencing a significant boom, marked by rising property prices, especially in urban areas. In Tokyo and Osaka, central locations have seen annual increases of over 5%, while residential property prices nationwide have climbed around 3% yearly…

Japan currently has around 8.5 million vacant homes, and this number is projected to reach nearly 10 million by 2030, making up about 30% of all housing. This sharp increase is due to an aging population and declining birth rates, which result in fewer residents in rural areas.…