Yamamoto Property Advisory - Learn how to invest in properties in Japan

Illegal Minpaku in Tokyo: A Silent Threat to Communities and Real Estate Value

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The Hidden Threat of Illegal Short-Term Rentals in Tokyo: A Growing Risk to Communities and Investors
Based on reporting by The Sankei Shimbun (June 24, 2025)

Tokyo is facing a serious and growing problem: illegal short-term rentals operating under the radar of authorities. According to a June 24 article by The Sankei Shimbun, violations of Japan’s lodging laws are rampant in the capital, with properties being used as “minpaku” (private lodgings) without proper registration, or exceeding the legal 180-day cap for annual use.

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Behind the Boom: Tokyo Property Trends and the Risks No One Talks About

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Tokyo Real Estate in Flux: Market Momentum and Hidden Risks for Global Investors

1. What is REINS – and Why It Matters

Before diving into market trends, it is important to understand the source of our data: REINS, or the Real Estate Information Network System.

REINS is Japan’s national multiple listing service, administered by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). Accessible only to licensed agents, it is the most authoritative database for tracking real estate listings, contract prices, and transaction volume across the country.

If you are familiar with the U.S. MLS or the UK Land Registry, REINS serves a similar role—offering professionals reliable, near-real-time insights into Japan’s property market. But our REINS totally sucks.

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Invest in Japan’s Alpine Paradise: Affordable Ski Home Opportunity in Hakuba Village

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Discover a Tranquil Alpine Retreat in Hakuba（白馬） – Ideal for Private Use or Investment

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s renowned Northern Alps, Hakuba has long been a favorite among international skiers, snowboarders, and nature lovers. With its world-class powder snow, charming alpine villages, and growing infrastructure, the region is rapidly becoming a hotspot for real estate investment—particularly for those seeking a peaceful second home or a well-located vacation rental.

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Mt. Fuji and Tokyo Tower from Your Living Room: Ultra-Rare 5BR in Twin Parks Tokyo

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A Trophy Residence in the Sky – 5BR at Tokyo Twin Parks with Unmatched Views and Rarity

In a city of nearly 700,000 condominiums, there are only 38 units that meet the following three conditions:

  • Located above the 40th floor

  • Feature an interior area of over 300 m²

  • Are available as privately owned freehold properties

This places the residence in the top 0.005% of all condominiums in Tokyo by size, elevation, and ownership status.

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Tokyo Becomes World’s Leading Real Estate Market in Q1 2025

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Tokyo Leads Global Real Estate Investment as Japan Posts Record-High Q1 Inflows

Japan’s real estate market achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of 2025. According to Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), total real estate investment in Japan exceeded JPY 2 trillion for the first time ever in a single quarter, reaching JPY 2.095 trillion (USD 13.7 billion). This surge was largely driven by robust foreign capital inflows and a series of large-scale deals, with Tokyo ranking as the world’s most invested city, ahead of New York and Dallas–Fort Worth.

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From Yaesu to Shinagawa: The Future of Tokyo’s Prime Office Supply Is Taking Shape

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Tokyo Office Market 2025–2029: Large-Scale Projects Lead Amid Tightening Supply

Tokyo’s office market is entering a new strategic phase, marked by a dual trend of concentrated supply and resilient demand. According to Mori Building’s latest report, more than 70–90% of all new office buildings supplied in Tokyo’s 23 wards through 2029 will be large-scale projects—defined as buildings with over 100,000 square meters of total floor space. This signals a sharp focus on premium-grade developments as construction costs continue to rise and tenants seek higher standards.

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Tokyo Bay Area Condo Market: Record Listings, Rising Prices—Is This the Peak?

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Tokyo Bay Area Condo Market: Listings Surge, Prices Rise – But How Long Can the Bubble Hold? (April 2025 Report)

The April 2025 data update for the Tokyo Bay Area condominium market reveals a striking contrast: a historic spike in listings, declining transaction volume, and yet record-high prices. This paradox highlights the fragile balance in what is now widely considered a bubble market in central Tokyo.

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Snow, Money, and Sovereignty: Why Japan Must Rethink Foreign Land Ownership

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Niseko’s Resort Boom at a Crossroads: Global Opportunity, Local Strain, and National Security

Once a quiet Hokkaido ski town known only to local enthusiasts, Niseko has transformed into one of Asia’s premier resort investment destinations. World-class powder snow, a thriving international community, and rising tourism demand have propelled its real estate market into global focus.

But as the resort continues to evolve, recent events—including the bankruptcy of a major China-backed development—raise important questions: How sustainable is Niseko’s growth? Can Japan maintain economic openness while protecting national security and social balance?

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Exclusive Tokyo Residence – Sophisticated 2BR Home in a Landmark Tower

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Introducing a Rare Opportunity for Elegant Waterfront Living

Discover an exclusive residence in the heart of Tokyo’s bay area.
Park Tower Kachidoki South offers a rare combination of sophisticated urban design, sweeping Tokyo Bay views, and world-class amenities.
This newly completed 2LDK + WIC + SIC residence (2 Bedrooms + Walk-In Closet + Shoes-In Closet) spans 88.17 square meters (approx. 948 sq.ft.) of interior space, complemented by a spacious 18.24 square meter balcony (approx. 196 sq.ft.) and an additional trunk room of 1.42 sqm (approx. 15.3 sq.ft.).

Located on the 38th floor of one of Tokyo’s most prestigious residential towers, this high-floor residence offers an unparalleled waterfront lifestyle for discerning buyers.

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Hidden Costs of Condo Ownership in Japan: What Every Foreign Buyer Must Know

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Rising Monthly Condo Fees in Japan: What Foreign Buyers Must Understand Before Investing

Introduction

Japan’s condominium market continues to attract global investors and foreign residents, thanks to its stability, location appeal, and urban infrastructure. However, one crucial aspect is often underestimated: the monthly ownership costs associated with condominiums.

If you are considering purchasing a condo in Japan, understanding monthly management fees and repair reserve funds is essential for long-term financial planning.

What Are Condo Management and Repair Fees in Japan?

In Japan, condominium owners pay two key recurring charges aside from mortgage payments and property taxes:

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