Owning a castle in Japan? A possibility or a pipe dream?
Europe is dotted with historic castles that can be bought and lived in, but what about Japan? Can you buy an authentic castle in Japan?
In short - probably not.Read more
Sendai's property bubble
Somewhat sensationalist magazine Nikkan SPA has reported that Sendai is experiencing a property bubble brought on by the reconstruction work following the Tohoku disaster.Read more
Foreclosed Aomori shrine for just 1 million Yen
The Hirosaki Toshogu Shinto Shrine in Hirosaki City, Aomori, is being put up sale as the shrine owners undergo bankruptcy proceedings.
The administrators announced that they are in negotiations with a Tokyo-based real estate company to sell the main shrine for just 1 million Yen (12,700 USD).Read more
Nagoya's Orchid Garden to be sold
The management of Nagoya's "Ran no Yakata Orchid Garden" is under serious review and the grounds may be put up for sale as the city reviews its budget.
Situated on a 1.6 hectare site, the gardens opened in 1998. In that same year, over 370,000 people visited the gardens, but by 2011 the number had dropped to 130,000. Nagoya City has been paying 110 million Yen annually to the managers of the gardens. In a budget review in October 2011, it was decided that the city should consider abolishing the program and privatize the gardens.Read more
New buyer found for Yubari Melon Castle
"Melon Castle", a liquor distilling facility in Yubari City, Sapporo, will be sold to a wholesale/retail company called Base Create. The facilities will be used to package and store goods.
Yubari City had previously agreed to sell the facilities to another buyer, but the sale was canceled in March as the buyer did not make payment. In April, the property was advertised for sale at a reduced starting price of 28,800,000 Yen (360,000 USD). Base Create was the only applicant, and based on their financials and business plan, their offer of 28,900,000 Yen was accepted. The new buyer plans to hire several local residents to help run the facilities.Read more
[Foreclosed] Japanese Castle in Hokkaido
*NO LONGER AVAILABLE*
Bidding started from 16,663,000 Yen
This foreclosed property in Akabira City is a replica of a traditional Japanese castle. The 6-storey reinforced concrete structure was originally called 'Tokugawa Castle" and was a doll museum. It was owned by the only festival doll manufacturer and supplier in Hokkaido, and the company used the space to display and sell their wares. The doll company still seems to be operating, but they have not used this building for the past five years. It has not been maintained during recent years and has some broken windows and roof damage.Read more