Buying Property in Tokyo: A Complete Guide

Tokyo offers foreign buyers a surprisingly accessible property market — unlike many Asian capitals, Japan places almost no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate. The city's property prices, while significant, remain considerably lower than equivalent properties in Hong Kong, Singapore, or London, making Tokyo an attractive proposition for international investors and lifestyle buyers.

The Tokyo property market is distinctive in several ways. Land and building values are often treated separately, depreciation applies to building values over time (unlike most markets), and the earthquake-resistant construction standards required since 1981 are a crucial consideration when evaluating older properties. Understanding the ward system (ku) and how it affects both property values and lifestyle is essential for any buyer.