Yes. In general, foreigners can buy land, houses, and apartments in Japan. You do not need Japanese citizenship or permanent residency to own property.

The harder parts are financing, understanding the contract, checking the building condition, and planning taxes and management after purchase.

Can non-residents buy?

Non-residents can buy property, but banks may be less willing to provide a mortgage. Many overseas buyers use cash, international financing, or a Japanese bank only after building stronger residency and income conditions.

Typical purchase flow

  1. Clarify purpose: residence, second home, investment, or renovation.
  2. Search properties and confirm whether foreign buyers are supported.
  3. Submit a purchase application.
  4. Review important matters explanation and contract terms.
  5. Sign the sales contract and pay deposit.
  6. Arrange payment, loan, and registration.
  7. Settle, transfer ownership, and receive keys.

Main costs to budget

  • Property price
  • Brokerage fee
  • Registration and license tax
  • Judicial scrivener fee
  • Stamp duty
  • Acquisition tax
  • Loan fees if financing
  • Annual property tax and city planning tax
  • Management and repair reserve fees for condominiums
For old houses and rural properties, the purchase price may be low but repair, demolition, access, and utility costs can be significant.

What to check before buying

Do not judge only by price. Check earthquake resistance, road access, zoning, building age, renovation history, boundary issues, vacancy risk, and whether short-term rental or business use is allowed.

Best next step

Before viewing properties, decide whether your priority is lifestyle, investment yield, visa planning, or long-term relocation. That choice changes the area, building type, and risk level.