Bento Box
5 min read

Bento Box: Issue 17

Written by
Michelle Flores
Published on
July 17, 2026

Today I’ll be focusing on houses in the Otaru area because we currently have some amazing properties available! I was actually wondering if we could run an analysis to see where most of our clients are buying, but I honestly believe the Otaru region, and Hokkaido overall, is where we have seen the most interest.

I think the second most popular area has to be Nagano. I’ve had quite a few house tours there recently in places like Myoko, Iiyama, Ueda, and other nearby areas, so it definitely seems to be growing in popularity.

What about you? Which area in Japan would you be most interested in buying a house in, and why?

Ingredient #1

  • 📍 Location: Otaru City, Hokkaido
  • 💰 Price: ¥5,500,000 (~$34,096 USD)
  • 🏠 Type: Detached House
  • 🛏 Layout: 5LDK
  • 📐 Building Size: 145.11 m² (1,562 sq ft)
  • 🌿 Land Size: 505 m² (5,435 sq ft)
  • 🚍 Access: 18-minute walk to Otaru-Chikko Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line

Learn more here: Live Listing!

This house is in a beautiful hilltop location with amazing views of the ocean, which I think is one of its best features. All of the rooms are traditional Japanese-style with floor-level windows that let in plenty of soft natural light. It also includes a sunroom, attic storage, and a windbreak room, which is a really practical feature in Hokkaido as it helps keep snow and rain out before entering the house.

Another great advantage is the garage with roller shutters, located on the basement level, as well as city gas, which helps keep utility costs lower compared to propane. The property also comes with the existing interior furnishings and fixtures, making it even easier to move in right away.

Ingredient #2

  • 📍 Location: Otaru, Hokkaido
  • 💰 Price: ¥2,600,000 (~$16,186 USD)
  • 🏠 Type: Detached House
  • 🛏 Layout: 6LDK
  • 📐 Building Size: 125.86 m² (1,355 sq ft)
  • 🌿 Land Size: 167.07 m² (1,798 sq ft)
  • 🚍 Access: 17-minute walk to Otaru Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line

Learn more here: Live Listing!

This house has a lot of flexibility, as it can even be used as a two-family home. It is located in a quiet residential neighborhood while still being really convenient for everyday life. There is a bus stop nearby, along with shopping centers, a hospital, and a supermarket within walking distance. It is also close to an elementary school, making it a great option for families.

One of the things I like most about this property is its southeast corner location, which allows for plenty of natural sunlight throughout the day. The house also includes a traditional Japanese-style room that adds a lot of character, as well as two toilets, one downstairs and one upstairs, which is always a great feature since many homes in Japan only have one.

The only downside is that the house does not include a garage. However, this is not a major issue, as there are several parking lots around Otaru where you can rent a parking space if needed. Overall, I think this is a really practical house in a great location.

Ingredient #3

  • 📍 Location: Otaru City, Hokkaido
  • 💰 Price: ¥11,800,000 (~$73,150 USD)
  • 🏠 Type: Detached House
  • 🛏 Layout: 4LDK
  • 📐 Building Size: 92.34 m² (994 sq ft)
  • 🌿 Land Size: 231.88 m² (2,496 sq ft)
  • 🚍 Access: 15-minute walk to Otaru-Chikko Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line

Learn more here: Live Listing!

This four-bedroom house is in excellent condition and is located in a quiet residential neighborhood, making it a great place for anyone looking for a peaceful lifestyle. It has a spacious living and dining area, and the overall layout makes the house feel bright and comfortable.

One of the biggest advantages is its convenient location. A supermarket is within walking distance, and the property is also close to an elementary school, making it a practical choice for families. The house includes a nice garden where you can relax or create your own outdoor space, and it also has a garage with a roller shutter, which is especially useful during Hokkaido’s snowy winters.

Another great feature is that the property uses city gas, helping keep utility costs lower than many homes that rely on propane. Overall, I think this is a really well-maintained house that offers a great combination of comfort, convenience, and everyday practicality. It would make a wonderful family home or even a vacation property for those looking to enjoy everything Otaru has to offer.

That’s a wrap-up for this week! Let me know what areas would you like to see next!

Browse opportunities yourself: Check out current listings at Nipponhomes.com

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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.

Michelle Flores
July 3, 2026

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