Buying land with an old building (Furuya-tsuki tochi) is a common way to find prime locations in Japan. However, the cost of clearing that land can vary significantly based on factors that aren't immediately visible. Asbestos and Other Hidden Obstacles One well-known factor is Asbestos.  With recent stricter regulations in Japan, its discovery requires specialized disposal that increases the overall cost. But the "unseen" isn't limited to asbestos. Demolition often uncovers "

Finding a plot of land that feels "right" is an emotional moment. However, in the complex world of Japanese custom home building, buying land before  narrowing down your potential builders or architects is a significant risk. The Method vs. Environment Problem Every piece of land has strict legal constraints, but it also has physical ones. Crucially, every builder has their own preferred construction methods. Some of these methods may be impossible to execute depending on the

Finding a beautiful, level plot of land is an exciting milestone. However, in the world of Japanese construction, the most critical factor is often invisible: the strength of the soil beneath your feet. Before a new house is built, a soil test is mandatory. If the ground is found to be soft, Soil Improvement (地盤改良)  is required to ensure structural safety. These costs are "hidden" because they aren't included in the land price. Costs vary significantly depending on the specif

When considering a plot of land in Japan, it is important to look beyond its current state. The legal framework of Zoning (用途地域)  plays a significant role in determining what can be built in the neighborhood, as well as the possibilities for your own home. For those prioritizing a consistent, quiet environment, "Low-Rise Exclusive Residential Zones"  are often a preferred choice. However, these zones usually have stricter "Sloping Line Restrictions" and height limits. This ca

In Japan, it is not uncommon for the road leading to your property to be a "Private Road" (Shido). However, failing to properly understand the ownership and rights associated with it can lead to significant trouble down the line. Simply put, because a private road is someone's property, you need the owner's permission (consent) to pass through it or to excavate it for utilities like water and gas. If you don't have a share in the road or can't obtain a written consent form, y

Finding a great deal on land is the first step toward your dream home. However, many buyers are shocked to discover that the "advertised area" and the "buildable area" are not the same. This is primarily due to Setback (Setback/道路後退)  regulations. In many older residential areas in Japan, roads are narrower than the required 4 meters. To ensure safety and access, the law requires you to set your building back from the center of the road. This "setback" portion cannot be built