Driving in Japan Now Requires Proof of Residence – What It Means for Foreign Residents and Property Buyers
Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA) will implement stricter rules for converting foreign driver’s licenses into Japanese licenses (commonly called gaimen kirikae) starting October 1, 2025. This move is aimed at improving road safety and ensuring that foreign drivers fully understand Japanese traffic regulations.
No More Flipping: Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward Bans Resales for 5 Years
Introduction: The First of Its Kind
On July 18, 2025, Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward took a groundbreaking step in Japan’s real estate policy: it formally requested cooperation from the Real Estate Companies Association of Japan to curb speculative condominium transactions. This marks the first time a Japanese local government has directly asked the real estate industry to limit short-term resale activity due to housing price inflation and supply pressure.
An exclusive luxury chalet in the heart of Hakuba—just minutes from ski lifts, with sweeping mountain views and proven rental income
Discover Chestnuts Hakuba—A Refined Investment in Japan’s Mountain Paradise
Tucked away in the heart of Hakuba Village, Chestnuts Hakuba is a rare gem—combining architectural elegance, panoramic views of the Japanese Alps, and immediate access to world-class skiing and year-round tourism. Now offered at JPY 500,000,000 (~USD 3.33M @150/USD), this two-story luxury cottage presents a unique opportunity for discerning investors and alpine lifestyle seekers alike.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
In Japan, condominium owners pay two key recurring charges aside from mortgage payments and property taxes:
Tokyo’s Ultra-Luxury Residential Market in 2025: Rising Demand, Limited Supply, and Future Outlook
Tokyo’s ultra-luxury residential market has quietly emerged as a major global player. In 2025, the city is increasingly drawing the attention of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) worldwide. A confluence of limited supply, strong demand, economic stability, and cultural prestige is reshaping Tokyo into a preferred destination for wealth preservation and lifestyle investment.
Definition and Price Benchmarks Ultra-luxury residences in Tokyo typically start from JPY 1 billion （U$6.7 million) and command prices of over
JPY 12 million per square meter. Properties such as Aman Residences, Toranomon Hills, and MARQ Omotesando ONE exemplify this prime residential market, with record-breaking sales and rising benchmarks.
Characteristics of Ultra-Luxury Properties Located in Aoyama, Azabu, and Roppongi, these residences offer unmatched security, concierge services, privacy, and architectural excellence.
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