Yes, foreigners can freely purchase real estate in Japan. There are no restrictions on purchases, and neither visa status nor nationality is relevant.
If you are interested in owning property in Japan, or if you already own property, please see For Owners.
It is often difficult for foreigners to obtain financing, but it may be possible if you have permanent residency in Japan and can provide collateral. Some areas, such as Niseko, have banks that are actively lending to foreigners.
Yes, most properties in Japan are freehold. However, some properties have leasehold rights.
In addition to the purchase price, you will need to pay approximately 5% in fees and taxes. These include:
- Real estate agent commission: 3% of the purchase price + ¥60,000 + consumption tax
- Legal and translation fees: Varies depending on the scale of the transaction
- Contract stamp duty: Required for the purchase contract
- Registration fee: Tax based on the property valuation
- Fixed asset tax: 1.4% per year (based on the assessed value)
- Mailing expenses: Approximately ¥5,000 per transaction
Hokkaido, especially Niseko and Furano, is a popular tourist destination with high demand for ski resorts in winter and sightseeing in summer. This results in stable occupancy rates throughout the year. Hokkaido also has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, providing easy access. For more information, please see Vacation Rental Investment Services page.
Niseko and Furano areas are accessible from New Chitose Airport in approximately 2 hours during summer and 3 hours during winter.
The main expenses are real estate acquisition tax and annual fixed asset tax. If you reside overseas, you will need to appoint a tax agent.
- Real estate acquisition tax: A one-time payment 6 months after purchase
- Fixed asset tax: 1.4% of the assessed property value, paid annually
For new construction and renovation work after purchasing a property, please contact us separately.
Rental income is taxed as income, but in the first 5 years, accelerated depreciation may offset the tax burden.
If you own the property for less than 5 years, a 30% capital gains tax applies. If you own the property for 5 years or more, a 15% capital gains tax applies.
Yes, JANKEN provides full support, including reservation management, guest relations, cleaning, and maintenance.
JANKEN's property management services include:
- Property cleaning and housekeeping
- Rental management and guest relations
- Payment of property management fees
- Various tax support
Rental income is taxed as income, and annual payment of fixed asset tax is required. If you live overseas, you will need to appoint a tax agent.
New properties can be depreciated over 39 years at 2.6% per year, and used properties can be depreciated over 10 years at 10% per year.
Typically, it takes about 2 weeks to 3 months due to the complexity of the process. JANKEN will support you to ensure a smooth sales process. If you are interested in selling your property, please contact us through our property sales consultation form.
Yes, JANKEN also offers property viewing tours in the Niseko and Furano areas. For more information, please see our
Vacation Rental Inspection Tours.
Have questions about buying property or investing in vacation rentals in Hokkaido?
Our JANKEN agents are here to help.
Resolve your questions about property purchases!
FAQ page for investors around the world.