Japan's portable "tsunami shelter"
A Japanese home-builder, Kimidori Kenchiku, has invented a tsunami-proof shelter that is shaped like a soccer ball and is capable of holding up to 5 adults. The company said that they developed the product as a way to increase future survival rates after seeing the devastating effects of the March 11 tsunami.Read more
Moves to cancel mortgages in tsunami-affected areas
On December 29 the Japan Housing Finance Agency (JHF) announced that they are considering either canceling mortgages or reducing the repayments to homeowners from the tsunami affected areas in Tohoku.Read more
The polyhedron house
Also known as the "Reflection of Mineral" house.
The home-owners' brief for this unique home in Nakano-ku, Tokyo, was a simple, yet functional design that maximized the total living space.Read more
Real estate brokerage fees in Japan
When renting or buying a property in Japan you may have to pay brokerage fees, or agent fees, to your real estate agent. The brokerage fees are defined under the Real Estate Transaction Business Law. Under this law, real estate agents cannot charge fees in excess of those specified.Read more
Shinjuku's latest luxury rental tower is home to Japan's first infinity rooftop pool
The brand new Park Habio Shinjuku Eastside Tower is the first rental building in Japan to have a rooftop infinity swimming pool for residents [As pointed out by a reader, Atago Green Hills Forest Tower (2001) has a rooftop pool on the 42nd floor]. Located on the 32nd floor, the infinity pool will have a commanding view of the Shinjuku skyline. There is also a bar lounge and rooftop terrace which can be used for residents to hold catered private parties. Other facilities include an indoor golf range, fully-equipped gym and karaoke room.Read more
Prince Hotel Gamagori sold
Kuretakeso, a hotel and wedding hall developer based in Hamamatsu City, announced that they will be acquiring the Prince Hotel Gamagori from the Prince Hotel chain. The hotel will be handed over on March 30, 2012, and the name will be changed to Gamagori Classic Hotel. The hotel will be revamped as a resort hotel and will also be used for wedding ceremonies. The total investment, including renovations to the rooms, is estimated at 1 billion Yen.Read more