Nationwide land values increase for 2nd year in a row

The nationwide Assessed Land Values (koji-chika), as issued by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) saw a year-on-year increase in 2023. This is the second year in a row to see an increase. The growth is apparent not only in urban centers, but is also spreading to regional areas as the country emerges from the pandemic.Read more


Hokkaido city struggling with abandoned buildings

A hotel near Kushiro Station that has been closed since 2012.

Kushiro City in Hokkaido is struggling with a growing number of vacant and seemingly-abandoned buildings in the city center.

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Sapporo’s most expensive apartments go on sale

Like other cities across Japan, Sapporo is no stranger to rising home prices. New apartment prices have risen by 37.3% over the past ten years. One new luxury condominium in the city has gone on sale this June with all apartments priced over 200 million Yen.

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New brand moves into historic hotel in Otaru

Boutique ryokan developer and operator Hoshino Resorts has taken over a bankrupt hotel in Otaru, Hokkaido, with plans to re-open it this winter under their OMO brand.

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10 billion Yen resort development for Hanazono, Niseko

Apex Property Limited, a Hong Kong developer founded by two female entrepreneurs, is launching a major resort and holiday villa project in Niseko’s Hanazono district.

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South Korean company to develop condos in Niseko

South Korean conglomerate Hanwha Group is planning a large-scale condominium project for the winter ski resort town of Niseko in Hokkaido. This would be the first major development by a South Korean company in Niseko.

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Hakodate City looking to sell former Russian Consulate

Hakodate City in Hokkaido is looking to sell the 112-year old former Russian Consulate within the year but has met strong opposition from local historians. The building has been sitting vacant for the past 24 years.

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