Property Types at a Glance
Japan's real estate market has several distinct property types. Mansions (マンション) are reinforced-concrete apartment buildings — the most common investment for foreigners. Detached houses (一戸建て) sit on their own land and range from modern builds to traditional wooden homes. Akiya (空き家) are vacant houses, often in rural areas, sometimes available for almost nothing. Kominka (古民家) are traditional Japanese houses, typically over 50 years old, prized for their craftsmanship.
Each type carries different risks, returns, and renovation considerations.