Celebrating over 150 episodes, Joey and Take tackle the most common question they get during client consultations: Where should I buy in Japan? Because buying property is deeply personal, there is no single right answer. Instead, the hosts break down different regions based on lifestyle choices, hobbies, natural disaster risks, and budget so you can figure out what fits your goals.
Key Takeaways
Start With Your Hobbies: Your location choice should depend entirely on how you want to spend your time, whether that means surfing, skiing, city living, or enjoying hot springs.
Natural Disaster Awareness: Japan is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis, especially along the Nankai fault line and coastal zones, making hazard maps an essential research tool.
Surf Hotspots: Miyazaki and Chiba are the top recommendations for consistent surf, while Kochi and Okinawa offer great waves with a different atmosphere.
Skiing and Snow Country: Niseko offers world class powder and an international community at a higher price point, while Otaru and Asahikawa provide great alternatives with strong food scenes and better value.
Urban Living: Osaka, Fukuoka, and Nagoya offer true city life with great infrastructure, dining, and more affordable real estate compared to Tokyo.
Country Homes and Land: Rural areas like Gifu, Niigata, and Shiga offer traditional farmhouses and large plots of land, but come with added maintenance and transportation needs.
Main Points Covered
Evaluating Natural Disasters: How to read government hazard overlays for tsunamis and understand the realities of building in coastal areas.
Coastal and Surf Living: Why Miyazaki tops the list for surfers and what to expect from local economic conditions and travel access.
Ski Property Markets: Comparing the high-end international market of Niseko with up-and-coming winter destinations like Otaru and Asahikawa.
Traditional Homes Near Kyoto: Why many buyers looking in Kyoto ultimately find better value and authentic farmhouses in nearby Shiga and rural prefectures.
City Alternatives: Exploring Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya as accessible urban hubs with lower entry costs than Tokyo.
The Decision Framework: Why having a local support system or knowing someone on the ground makes managing a Japanese property much easier.
Call to Action If you found this episode helpful, please give us a five star rating and share it with someone looking to buy a home in Japan. Visit mokomoko.com to browse over half a million listings and learn more about the Mokomoko Buyers Club
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