FAQ page

Basically anyone can buy residential property in Japan; there are no restrictions as to nationality, visa type etc. Note that unless you are on a long-term visa (working/residence/spouse etc.) you will not be able to get a mortgage in Japan, so you would need to be a cash buyer. 

All land in Japan is zoned, that is it is legally classified for specific purposes. Activity that meets that purpose can be conducted as of right (although consents/permits may be required). There are 6 major zone types, and most buyers will be looking at land that is either zoned residential, or if in rural areas zoned residential and agricultural. Each zone has activities that may be restricted or not permitted, but often there are ways to apply for permits/consents, although it can be a time consuming and expensive process. 

A property may be deemed as "non-rebuildable" for a range of reasons, but the most common reason is that it does not have the required minimum width access road and/or road frontage  (2m) . This means that should the dwelling on the property be destroyed or rendered uninhabitable (e.g. by a natural disaster) then it cannot be rebuilt. You can however renovate a non-rebuildable property such as replacing kitchen or bathroom, but cannot extend the dwelling or make structural changes. A non-rebuildable property can change to a rebuildable property if the access way can be improved to minimum standards, by e.g. buying a neighbouring plot to expand access. 

A scrivener is akin to a conveyancing lawyer in that they prepare all the documentation that goes with the transfer of a land title. Different prefectures in Japan may have slightly different rules, so it is important to choose a scrivener who is familiar with the local legislation.

There are two main ongoing taxes to consider. The first is the Fixed Asset tax, which is 1.4% of the assessed value. The second is the Local City tax, at 0.3% of the assessed value. Note the assessed value is not the same as the purchase price you pay; it is a government valuation that is reviewed every three years. There may also be local village or district "contributions" that a landowner is expected to pay, such as fees associated with maintaining a local shrine or hosting a festival etc. While not absolutely compulsory, it is highly advisable to become involved in your local community and contribute.

A scrivener is akin to a conveyancing lawyer in that they prepare and check all the documentation that goes with the transfer of a land title when a property is sold. Different prefectures in Japan may have slightly different rules, so it is important to choose a scrivener who is familiar with the local legislation.