Buying a House in Japan

Welcome to the last episode of 2025! This week, Joey and Take reflect on their predictions from one year ago and share their hopes for 2026. Turns out some things worked out as predicted  but not exactly in the way they thought and other things didn't materialize. However, the team had a great year overall. Their portfolio is starting to take shape. AkiyaMart is growing. The journey continues.  01:51 Welcome to Our First Video Podcast 03:49 Property Highlights and Success Stories 08:20 The Nagasaki Flip: A Success Story 12:14 Otaru Property and Future Plans 16:33 Coin Laundry Business Venture 24:59 Market Dynamics and Foreign Interest 29:26 Government Policies and Their Impact 35:05 Hot Property Areas in 2025 39:47 Personal Real Estate Ventures 43:48 Wrapping Up 2025 and Looking Ahead

After 3 weeks, several ferries, and a lot driving all over Japan, from Niigata to southern Shikoku, Take and Joey sit down to recap their journey. This time, they're coming to you from the parking lot at Kochi Airport, mere minutes before Take was set to fly back to California. They recap all that has gone down in these three weeks, from the prospect of setting up tiny homes, to visiting the coin laundry in Tama, to the prospects of areas like Kochi and Kaifu. They also touch on some recent news and talk about their hopes for an upcoming trip back to Japan early next year. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. Wanna get in touch? Drop us a line at podcast@akiya-mart.com. 01:01 Podcast Welcome 13:36 Surfing in Japan: Is It Worth It? 15:15 Tiny Homes vs. Renovating AKI: Pros and Cons 19:59 Bear Attacks in Japan: A Growing Concern 22:49 Travel Tips and Favorite Moments 26:01 Upcoming Trips and Future Plans 28:17 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week, friend of the show and AkiyaMart Direct Consultant Erik drops by  to discuss his upcoming relocation to Niigata! The group covers Erik's process and the challenges of moving to Japan. Plus, he touches on the prospects of managing three houses in Japan, including his recently purchased $69 akiya. Come for the conversation, stay to hear practical advice for folks considering a similar move. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:20 Podcast Introduction and Guest Introductions 05:06 Exploring the New Neighborhood 12:36 Visa Application Challenges 17:39 Shipping a Classic Car to Japan 21:07 Joey's Car Adventures in Hawaii 27:48 Visa Process and Moving Preparations 30:49 Advice for Moving to Japan 32:25 Comparing Housing Options in Japan 35:46 Final Thoughts and Farewells

Take and Joey are coming to you this week from Tosashimizu in Shikoku, where they visited perhaps the most unique akiya they've ever seen: An American-Japanese hybrid style house surrounded by dense jungle with beach access.  They discuss the house's features, including Japanese tea ceremony rooms and an American kitchen imported from San Diego. The property also includes a three-car garage made from a shipping container, koi ponds, stone benches, and even a pizza oven. Most intriguing though is the home's trans-Pacific backstory. This home has been on an adventure and there's more to come for whoever purchases this property. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:39 Welcome to the Podcast 00:56 Exploring Kochi Prefecture 03:58 Discovering the Abandoned House 05:00 First Impressions of the House 08:12 Unique Features and Challenges 14:11 Condition and Renovation Needs 16:46 Assessing the Condition of the House 17:09 American vs. Japanese Building Standards 18:31 Renovation Plans and Costs 19:42 Exploring the Outdoor Area 27:04 Discovering the Private Beach 29:03 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 34:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week, Take and Joey are coming to you from Shikoku after hopping a ferry from Tokyo down to Tokushima. This time around, they cover all the recent news in Japan, from bears to the new Prime Minister. Joey shares his newfound habit of reading The Japan Times for the latest updates. They also give a detailed account of their visit to a  well-designed surf house and the unique charm and challenges of Shikoku's smaller towns.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:31 Welcome to Shikoku 04:04 Japanese News Highlights 07:56 Business Manager Visa Changes 10:45 Political Shifts in Japan 14:43 Impact of Yen Fluctuations 17:02 Trip Impressions and Ferry Experience 21:37 Exploring Kaifu and Surfing Challenges 30:40 Reflections on Shikoku and Future Plans 33:18 Wrapping Up and Call to Action

This week, Take is flying solo but he's in good company! Jon, an early AMD client, shares his story of going from akiya-curious to successfully purchasing a vacation home for his family in Kitakaruizawa. Jon details his experience and collaboration with the team from start to finish, including overcoming initial doubts, navigating the Japanese real estate process, surviving his first encounter with snow, and setting up the property as an Airbnb.  Speaking of which, you too can stay in Jon's forest retreat the next time you visit Japan [https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1448932831315702091]! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:35 The Journey to Buying a House in Japan 04:38 The Search for the Perfect Property 06:43 Choosing the Right Location 09:36 The Buying Process and Challenges 14:33 Finalizing the Purchase 19:19 First Impressions of the New Home 21:37 Exploring Rural Beauty 22:10 Arriving at the Villa 24:01 Challenges with the Cold 26:32 Insulation and Heating Solutions 29:19 Family Adventures and Future Plans 31:45 Setting Up the Airbnb 35:19 Airbnb Success and Reflections 37:16 Advice for Future Buyers 38:53 Conclusion and Gratitude

On this episode, recorded live from their home in Myoko, Take and Joey reflect on the past year in the life of the property. They discuss the challenges, half-chances, and eventual new life for this property in Myoko. If you caught last week's episode about Ikigai Collective, this week they dive a bit deeper into their plans to collaborate on the transformation of this property. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:48 Impressions of the Property 01:48 Background and Purchase Details 07:10 Challenges and Initial Plans 11:11 New Partnership and Future Plans 15:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps 18:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

This week, we're joined by Mitch, the founder of Ikigai Collective, a company specializing in building luxury tiny homes. Mitch shares his journey of moving to Japan, his passion for building, and how he integrates the concept of 'Ikigai'—a Japanese philosophy meaning 'purpose for being'—into his business. Additionally, Mitch talks about his engagement with the local community, including the building of a community skate park. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the nuances of  constructing tiny homes in Japan, the importance of community engagement, and the rewarding experiences that come with pursuing one's passion. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com]. 01:07 Meet Mitch from Ikigai Collective 02:11 Building Tiny Homes in Japan 06:50 Living and Working in Nozawa Onsen 12:07 Tiny Homes as a Business 16:37 Technical Aspects of Tiny Homes 23:22 Tiny House Industry in Japan 27:10 A to Z Service for Tiny Homes 32:19 Community Involvement and Skate Park 37:08 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Coming to you from Tama Base Camp, Joey and Take welcome special guest Ryan, the representative director of AkiyaMart in Japan, to talk about what's going on with the laundromat purchase in Tama. They delve into details about the financial aspects, potential improvements, and unique challenges of the Japanese real estate and business market.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:46 Ryan's Background and Role 02:57 Navigating Business in Japan 05:14 M&A Process and Challenges 09:29 Facility and Operational Concerns 11:29 Future Plans and Improvements 14:08 Identifying the Target Customer 19:19 Financial Analysis and Lease Details 21:12 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Ken and Lan join Take and Joey to share their fascinating story of purchasing a unique house in Osaka, originally an udon shop. They dive into the challenges and emotional rollercoaster of the buying process, including the initial excitement, unexpected delays, and final resolution. The episode sheds light on the practical aspects of house hunting, the importance of patience, and the tools and resources they utilized, including AkiyaMart. Ken and Lan also discuss potential future plans for the property, hinting at a coffee shop, coin laundry, and more. From navigating real estate norms in Japan to dealing with personal setbacks, this episode is a comprehensive guide to buying property in Japan filled with insights and real-life experiences. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:36 Meet Ken and Lan: Background and Professions 02:28 Ken's Experience in Osaka 04:54 Childhood Influences and Love for Japan 06:37 Ken's Passion for Cars and MMA 09:41 Choosing Osaka: Influences and Accessibility 12:27 The Property Purchase Process 26:34 Virtual Viewings and Sweaty Summers 28:08 Challenges in the Competitive Osaka Market 31:04 The Udon Shop Property Saga 33:18 The Missing Owner Mystery 38:15 A Glimmer of Hope and Finalizing the Purchase 43:01 First Impressions and Future Plans

Erik is back to share his recent success in acquiring a $69 house near Niigata [https://www.akiya-mart.com/listing/177567065?currency=usd&is-metric=false], making it his third property in the area. The hosts dive into the details of the purchase, including the challenges of double commission fees and the overall costs associated with putting the house in his name. Erik and the team discuss potential renovations, the perks of the location, and future plans for the property. They also touch on topics like the local fish market, kite surfing, and potential issues such as tsunami risks and neighboring abandoned properties. Towards the end, the conversation shifts to other real estate ventures, including a possible surf house in Shikoku and the ongoing adventures in snowboarding and kite surfing.   Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://www.akiya-mart.com/]. 02:52 Understanding the $69 House Deal 03:55 Double Commission Fees Explained 06:19 Breakdown of Additional Costs 09:02 Property Details and Future Plans 11:59 Renovation and Legal Considerations 25:00 Estimating Renovation Costs 25:34 Discussing Property Condition 26:40 Siding and Structural Concerns 28:37 Tear Down Properties 29:03 Potential of the Miko Spot 30:40 Sauna Business Ideas 32:11 Mobile and Off-Grid Living 34:07 Snowboarding and Surfing Adventures 39:23 Exploring New Property Opportunities 43:28 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Joey and Take welcome back Ninh, a seasoned investor who has successfully purchased three properties in Japan. Ninh shares his journey, detailing his investment strategy, the challenges he faced, and the rewards of owning properties in Japan. He highlights the importance of due diligence, the value of optionality in investments, and the impact of global economic conditions on local real estate markets. With in-depth discussions on property renovations, market trends, and economic analysis, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in real estate investment in Japan. A limited supply of coin laundry-themed t-shirts are available in the AkiyaMart merch store [https://akiyamart.myshopify.com/]. Get yours before they're gone! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://www.akiya-mart.com/]. 05:12 Japan's Economic Landscape 07:15 Real Estate Strategies in Japan 11:34 Ninh's Property Portfolio 13:33 Renovation Stories and Design Choices 18:01 Property Management and Financials 29:45 Rapid Renovations and Furnishing 40:09 Market Trends and Chinese Investments 45:33 Multi-Unit Property Strategy 54:55 Final Thoughts and Advice for Buyers

It's here. Episode 100! Coming to you from Tama Base Camp, Joey and Take celebrate their journey and milestones reached along the way. They reflect on their initial intentions, unexpected successes, and their experience of the past couple years, including the coin laundry they're buying in Tama. They share retrospective highlights, including memorable characters and pivotal decisions that shaped their journey. The episode underscores the blend of learning, adventure, and business evolution experienced over the past two years. A limited supply of coin laundry-themed t-shirts are available in the AkiyaMart merch store [https://akiyamart.myshopify.com/]. Get yours before they're gone! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://www.akiya-mart.com/]. 00:00 Celebrating Episode 100 02:00 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey 08:03 It's happening. Buying a Coin Laundry 16:51 Challenges and Opportunities in Japan 26:57 Memorable Characters and Stories 32:43 Lowest Moments in Property Buying 37:03 Building a Business in Japan 46:20 Exciting Collaborations and Future Plans

On this week's episode, Joey and Take catch up after their summer vacations and give some updates on various property investments in Japan, such as insulation projects, property renovations, and successful property sales. They also discuss their new business venture: purchasing a coin laundry business in Tama. Then they give a preview of the next episode, coming to you from Japan for number 100. Let's go! A limited supply of coin laundry-themed t-shirts are available in the AkiyaMart merch store [https://akiyamart.myshopify.com]. Get yours before they're gone! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://www.akiya-mart.com] 01:30 Summer Vacation Recap 05:27 Property Updates and Renovations 12:18 Investment Property Insights 17:47 Structural Issues and Renovation Challenges 23:01 Challenges in Buying a Coin Laundry Business 30:22 Exploring Business Multipliers and Profitability 35:09 Upcoming Japan Trip and Exciting Plans 37:26 Episode 99 Wrap-Up and Teasers for Episode 100

Joey, and Take are once again joined by Erik. This time, diving into their experiences buying akiya, covering unique challenges and insights only akiya buyers would understand.  Key topics include the intricacies of dealing with Japanese trash regulations, the constant need for temperature regulation in older homes, and the intricacies of Amazon deliveries. They also explore the nuances of Japanese door locks, the perpetual state of home renovations, and the importance of balancing wealth and health while living in Japan.  A limited supply of coin laundry-themed t-shirts are available in the AkiyaMart merch store [https://akiyamart.myshopify.com]. Get yours before they're gone! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com] 01:01 Introduction to the Hosts 03:03 Erik's Trip to Niigata 09:28 Understanding Japanese Trash Culture 22:05 Navigating Cultural Differences 23:10 Locking Systems in Japan 24:28 AkiyaMart Direct Program 25:02 Understanding Japanese Home Construction 31:20 Challenges of Eating Out in Japan 37:11 The Importance of Having a Car 38:34 Amazon Delivery Issues 41:55 Managing Property Maintenance 42:49 Conclusion and Merch Announcement

In this episode, Joey and Take discuss their latest venture into buying small businesses in Japan, specifically focusing on a coin laundromat in the Tokyo suburb of Tama. They explore the opportunities and challenges presented by Japan's declining population and its impact on the small business market. Is it the first episode of Buying a Laundromat in Japan? Stay tuned! A limited supply of coin laundry-themed t-shirts are available in the AkiyaMart merch store. [https://akiyamart.myshopify.com/] Get yours before they're gone! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/] 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:34 Meet the Hosts and Their Journey 01:36 Exploring the Idea of Buying a Small Business 02:53 Challenges and Opportunities in Small Business Acquisition 03:49 Specific Business Opportunity: Coin Laundry 05:29 Financial Considerations and Initial Steps 07:18 Potential Business Enhancements and Future Plans 20:19 Brainstorming the Laundromat Concept 21:00 Naming the Laundromat 24:28 Franchise Considerations 25:14 Marketing Strategies 26:37 Launch Party Ideas 30:41 Merchandise Announcement 36:19 Upcoming Japan Trip 38:34 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode, returning guest Nick from Japan Remotely discusses the recent changes in the Business Manager Visa regulations, which have drastically increased the initial investment requirement and mandated the hiring of local employees. He also addresses alternative visa options, the importance of contributing to the Japanese community, and how these changes impact future relocation plans. Additionally, Nick provides an update on his personal journey, including potential plans to move to Fukuoka, and introduces new resources like Japan Remotely Academy for those seeking to navigate these new immigration challenges. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:40 Nick Woolley's Expertise in Japanese Immigration 01:52 Understanding the Artist Visa 03:46 Nick's Personal and Business Updates 05:50 Considering Relocation Options 07:11 Fukuoka as a Potential Destination 10:53 Changes to the Business Manager Visa 14:39 Implications of the New Visa Requirements 25:14 Future Business Strategies and Opportunities 26:24 Challenges of Hiring in Japan 27:34 Navigating Startup Capital Requirements 30:41 Visa Renewal Concerns 31:27 Impact of Visa Abuse Cases 34:51 Strategies for Moving to Japan 36:31 Exploring Alternative Visa Options 40:26 Combining Work and AIA Business 42:50 Adapting to New Visa Regulations 46:21 Final Thoughts and Solutions

In this episode of the Buying a House in Japan podcast, hosts Joey and Taka sit down with Melanie and Christian, recent buyers through the AkiyaMart Direct Buyers Club. The couple shares their journey from the U.S. to Uno, Okayama, where they purchased and began renovating their dream property. They talk about what first drew them to Japan, the challenges of navigating the buying process, tackling a major termite infestation, and their vision to transform the home into an artist residency. Along the way, they highlight the importance of community, preparation, and local support. 📸 Check out Melanie and Christian's project: * Website: LINK [https://www.sadouinn.com/] * Instagram: LINK [https://www.instagram.com/thesadouinn/profilecard/?igsh=emdpOGpjM3o4aXl1] * Airbnb listings: [Chicchai Room] LINK [https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1389014087226586156?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=48f7dbbb-f38d-4867-861b-54bc8b90d771] | [Sadou Suite]  LINK [https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1389014087226586156?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=48f7dbbb-f38d-4867-861b-54bc8b90d771&source_impression_id=p3_1756461489_P3nq0yjlH_A9IUYn]  [Moonrise Suite] LINK [https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1389014087226586156?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=48f7dbbb-f38d-4867-861b-54bc8b90d771&source_impression_id=p3_1756461489_P3nq0yjlH_A9IUYn] Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Intro to the AkiyaMart Direct Buyers Club 00:50 – Meet Melanie & Christian 01:11 – Melanie's Journey to Japan 03:04 – Christian's Dream of Japan 03:32 – Discovering Japanese Real Estate 06:10 – Choosing Okayama & Uno 12:03 – The Artist Residency Vision 16:30 – The Purchase Process 28:06 – Ryo's Crucial Role 29:02 – Navigating the Transaction 29:43 – Money Transfer Challenges 30:37 – From Offer to Keys in Hand 33:46 – First Impressions & Initial Challenges 38:28 – Dealing with Termites 45:29 – Community Support & Involvement 50:34 – Advice for Future Buyers 52:01 – Future Plans & Closing Thoughts

Navigating Japan Property and DIY Challenges with AkiyaMart Consultant Jay Horta In this episode of the Buying A House in Japan Podcast, hosts Take, Joey and Jay, an AkiyaMart consultant, delve into the intricacies of purchasing and renovating properties in Japan. Jay Horta shares his personal experiences with challenging renovations, budgeting tips, and the value of buying in smaller towns. Despite hurdles, including unregistered vehicles and costly home repairs, Jay provides advice on planning, determining a property's purpose, and understanding renovation costs. The conversation also explores the appeal of Japan's culture, the safety benefits, and life in less-populated areas. Tune in for practical insights and real-life stories on buying a house in Japan. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:34 Meet Jay Horta: Background and Experience 01:29 Challenges of Owning Property in Japan 03:27 Jay's Journey to Japan and Cultural Insights 09:44 First Property Purchase: Lessons Learned 17:39 The Van Saga: A Cautionary Tale 23:15 Speed Cameras and Visa Concerns 23:54 Advice for Buying Property in Japan 25:10 Negotiating Property Prices 25:46 Property Features and Renovations 27:48 Budgeting for Property Purchase 33:19 Living in Japan: Safety and Lifestyle 35:35 Visa Challenges and Solutions 37:50 Construction and Renovation Tips 41:53 Preparing for Property Consultations

Website Challenges, Investment Strategies, and the Complexities of Establishing a Japanese Corporation In this episode of the 'Buying A House in Japan' podcast, hosts Joey and Take discuss various issues and updates. They begin by addressing recent challenges with their website, including issues with scrapers and duplicate listings, and their plans to fix these problems. Next, they provide insights into their Akio property investments and talk about possibly consolidating their assets to invest in a higher-quality property. They also delve into their experiences establishing a Japanese corporation, handling legal documents, and navigating the complex Japanese bureaucracy. The episode wraps up with a discussion on possible future investments and overcoming business challenges in Japan. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:40 Podcast Milestones and Future Plans 01:41 Website Issues and Fixes 05:14 Challenges with Duplicate Listings 09:55 Akiya Bank Listings and Challenges 14:11 Reddit Community Reactions 16:40 Consolidating Akiya Investments 23:54 Travel Logistics and Future Plans 27:01 Wrapping Up and Moving Forward 27:16 Property Updates and Sales Strategy 29:31 Challenges of Starting a Business in Japan 33:30 Navigating Japanese Bureaucracy 40:05 Visa Requirements and Office Space 48:09 Final Thoughts and Future Plans