This week, I wanted to focus entirely on ski resort areas and some of the houses we have recently found near the mountains. More and more of our clients have been asking specifically for properties close to ski resorts, whether as vacation homes, rental investments, or simply as a place to escape the busy city lifestyle during winter.
Japan has so many beautiful ski areas beyond the well-known resorts, and one of the things I enjoy the most is finding houses that still have great value while being within driving distance of major ski destinations. Areas around Myoko, Hakuba, and other mountain regions continue to grow in popularity, especially among international buyers looking for a mix of nature, accessibility, and investment potential.
Ingredient #1
- 📍 Location: Irifune 2-chome, Otaru, Hokkaido
- 💰 Price: ¥17,000,000 (~$106,881 USD)
- 🏠 Type: Detached House
- 🛏 Layout: 4LDK
- 📐 Building Size: 145.84 m² (1,570 sq ft)
- 🌿 Land Size: 175.53 m² (1,889 sq ft)
- 🚍 Access: 10-minute walk to Minami-Otaru Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line
Learn more here: Live Listing!
This house was built in 1998 and is in great condition! It offers four bedrooms, along with a comfortable living and kitchen area. One of the most unique features of the property is not only its excellent location, but also the built-in floor heating on the first floor (which is something not many houses in Japan offer).
The property also includes a heated driveway, making winter maintenance much more convenient during snowy months. In addition, the boiler has recently been replaced with a brand-new unit, and the house features two toilets, which is always a great bonus for daily living. The only downside is that the property does not include a parking space. However, it is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the nearest station and only a 5-minute walk from the closest supermarket, making daily life very accessible even without a car.
Ingredient #2
- 📍 Location: Azumino, Nagano Prefecture
- 💰 Price: ¥18,980,000 (~$119,381 USD)
- 🏠 Type: Detached House
- 🛏 Layout: 4LDK
- 📐 Building Size: 112.98 m² (1,216 sq ft)
- 🌿 Land Size: 278.15 m² (2,994 sq ft)
- 🚍 Access: 4-minute walk to Akashina Station on the JR Shinonoi Line
Learn more here: Live Listing!
This house has been recently renovated, as you can see from the pictures, and I think the results are amazing. One of the best features of the renovation is that all window frames have been upgraded to double-pane glass, providing excellent insulation throughout the house. This is not very common in Japan, so it is definitely a major advantage and a great feature to have, especially during colder seasons.
The house is also equipped with brand-new LED lighting and includes parking space for two cars. Another great feature is the spacious outdoor area, which could be used for growing your own garden or even for another project you may have in mind.
The property is located close to Matsumoto, with access to several ski resorts within approximately a 30 to 50-minute drive. Overall, I think this is a really impressive property that combines modern updates, practicality, and great access to mountain areas.
Ingredient #3
- 📍 Location: 1-chome, Teramachi, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture
- 💰 Price: ¥6,000,000 (~$37,739 USD)
- 🏠 Type: Detached House
- 🛏 Layout: 6DK
- 📐 Building Size: 161.14 m² (1,735 sq ft)
- 🌿 Land Size: 2801.02 m² (30,150 sq ft)
- 🚍 Access: 27-minute walk to Joetsu-Myoko Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen
Learn more here: Live Listing!
This property includes a garage, a traditional storehouse, and a warehouse, offering an incredible amount of space and flexibility. I think this is a house with endless possibilities. With the right vision, it could potentially be converted into an inn by creating a comfortable space for larger groups, or the traditional storehouse could be transformed into a sauna room, studio, or another unique feature. There is also plenty of space to create your own large garden or bring to life any project you may have in mind.
The house is in good overall condition. Of course, renovations would be needed, but I do think this property presents a fantastic investment opportunity with a lot of creative potential.
That’s all I have for this week! Are there any areas you are interested in exploring properties in? Let me know in the comments!
Browse opportunities yourself: Check out current listings at Nipponhomes.com
Book Consultation | Subscribe to our newsletter
We’ve been building out a solid list of travel + ski partnerships lately.
If you’re gearing up for a trip and need things like luggage, Goggles, insurance and much much more there are some really good deals below.
We’re always looking to partner with great travel + ski brands.
If you’d like to be featured on our perks page, reach out at: Grant@yukihomes.com
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects my personal opinions and experience. I am not a licensed financial advisor, tax advisor, or attorney. Readers should conduct their own due diligence and consult qualified professionals before making any investment decisions.
Take the Next Step
Join our community for exclusive insights and resources on Japanese real estate investments.
Our team
Meet the founders.
Derek has been working in the Airbnb space for the past 10+ years and recently purchased a home in Japan. He is excited to bring this investment opportunity to others in the States & abroad.
Nick has a passion for adventure and has always dreamed of owning a property in Japan. His dreams finally came true when Derek brought him in on a deal of a lifetime in Hokkaido, Japan - one of Nick's favorite places on Earth.