Bento Box: Issue 7

Hi everyone! I’ve been coming across so many great properties lately that picking just three each week honestly feels a bit unfair. There’s a lot more out there right now, and if you’re curious, you can always check the full list through our link to see what’s currently on the market.

Otaru, in particular, has been surprising us—in a good way. We’ve been seeing really solid homes at price points that almost don’t feel real. It makes you stop and think about how different the market here is compared to many other parts of the world.

If there’s a specific area you’d like me to focus on in a future issue, just let me know. I’m always happy to put together a selection from one region and show you what’s available there. Of course comment below if you want that to happen!

Ingredient #1

📍 Location: Otaru, Hokkaido
💰 Price: ¥6,400,000 (~$40,093 USD)
🏠 Type: Detached House
🛏 Layout: 5LDK
📐 Building Size: 139.8 m² (1,505 sq ft)
🌿 Land Size: 264.43 m² (2,846 sq ft)
🚍 Access: 11-minute walk to Otaru-Chikko Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line

This property is just amazing for the price and the land size. It has five bedrooms and was recently renovated. The toilet has been replaced with a new one (which is a HUGE plus, as toilets are a major renovation expense). The stove and boiler were also replaced in 2025, and the ceilings and wallpaper in the two Western-style bedrooms have been updated as well. Not only that, it is within walking distance of a large shopping center and a big Aeon supermarket. Honestly, this is a great deal, and it comes with two parking spaces!

Learn more here: Live Listing!

Ingredient #2

📍 Location: Katsura Inui-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
💰 Price: ¥7,000,000 (~$43,928 USD)
🏠 Type: Terrace House
🛏 Layout: 3DK
📐 Building Size: 43 m² (463 sq ft)
🌿 Land Size: 264.43 m² (429.4 sq ft)
🚍 Access: 15-minute walk to Katsura Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line

This home is just a 16-minute ride to Kyoto Station and about 30 minutes to Arashiyama, making it a great option for those who want easy access to the city while staying in a quieter residential area. It offers a nice balance between convenience and a more relaxed, local atmosphere away from the busiest tourist spots.

The house itself is a charming, compact property with two bedrooms and a small garden, giving it a cozy and inviting feel. There’s also plenty of potential for creative renovations, whether you want to modernize the space or keep some of its traditional character. Considering how property prices in Kyoto have been steadily rising, this is a very attractive price point for a home that is still just one direct train ride from the main station.

Learn more here: Live Listing!

Ingredient #3

📍 Location: Amorikowaichi 2-chome, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture
💰 Price: ¥5,900,000 (~$38,000 USD)
🏠 Type: Detached House
🛏 Layout: 5LDK
📐 Building Size: 95.22 m² (1,025 sq ft)
🌿 Land Size: 218 m² (2,347 sq ft)
🚍 Access: 24-minute walk to Kawanakajima Station on the JR Shinetsu Main Line

This property is a rare opportunity for those looking for space and potential in a prime winter destination. Located near several popular ski resorts, it’s an ideal option as a vacation home for ski season or as a rental property. The house itself is quite large, offering plenty of room to reimagine the layout and create something truly special. It also benefits from access to nearby stations and includes parking.

That said, this is definitely a renovation project. The interior will require significant work, as the property has been vacant for some time and has not been recently updated. Some of the current interior photos show remaining furniture and clutter. For the right buyer, this could be a rewarding transformation project with strong upside, especially given its location in a popular and growing ski area.

Learn more here: Live Listing!

That’s a wrap-up! Are you ready to buy a home in Japan? It’s always a pleasure to help you in your search and to support you with renovation projects along the way!

Browse opportunities yourself: Check out current listings at Nipponhomes.com

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We’ve been building out a solid list of travel + ski partnerships lately.

If you’re gearing up for a trip and need things like luggage, Goggles, insurance and much much more there are some really good deals below.

YukiHomes Perks

We’re always looking to partner with great travel + ski brands.

If you’d like to be featured on our perks page, reach out at:Grant@yukihomes.com

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects my personal opinions and experience. I am not a licensed financial advisor, tax advisor, or attorney. Readers should conduct their own due diligence and consult qualified professionals before making any investment decisions.