Akiya & Japan property consulting
Find the place that
fits your life
in Japan.
Buying an akiya or another home in Japan from overseas? Get practical support with planning, property research, and communication in English.
Still exploring? Start with the free checklist.
Why Akiya Locations
A personal point of contact.
A clearer purchase process.
Akiya are vacant homes in Japan. We help overseas buyers assess their plans, research properties, and coordinate with local professionals. Start with our Japan home-buying FAQs or explore our consulting services.
The journey
Five steps.
One straightforward path.
1Plan
Goals, budget and timing
2Location
Where life fits best
3Search
A focused shortlist
4Purchase
Local coordination
5Keys
Handover and next steps
Meet your consultant
Firsthand experience.
Personal support.
Yuko Wada has purchased property in Japan and the U.S. Her decade-plus of U.S. real estate experience shapes a practical approach to helping overseas buyers navigate Japan.
Akiya buyer updates
News for your Japan home plans.
Selected news and practical guidance for prospective buyers, with official sources and context for your next step.
Sources reviewed 11 October 2026
Kyoto’s short-stay rules are under review
Kyoto City published survey findings as part of its review of minpaku regulation. The city is aiming to propose an ordinance amendment during fiscal 2026; this announcement is not an enacted rule change.
For buyers: Considering short-stay use in Kyoto? Check the property’s current permissions and follow the city’s review before relying on rental income.
A closer look at the condition of existing homes
Japan’s housing ministry held the first meeting of a study group on housing maintenance and resale. Its discussion papers cover inspections, upkeep and preservation of property records; they do not announce new buyer obligations.
For buyers: When viewing an older home, ask what inspection findings and repair records are available, and identify what still needs professional assessment.
Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
Planning to host guests while you live overseas?
Under the Private Lodging Business Act, an operator who is absent while guests stay generally needs a registered housing accommodation manager. Exceptions are limited, and other accommodation regimes have different requirements.
For buyers: Before buying for minpaku, confirm the applicable rules and include professional management in your operating budget.
Your next step
Let’s talk about your plans.
A free 30-minute conversation with Yuko about Full Service support.
Client experiences
Hear from people who have worked with Akiya Locations.