In this episode, we explore fascinating stories about Japanese houses, from haunted homes to overgrown ruins, and discuss cultural nuances in real estate transactions. Join us for insights into unique property tales and the quirks of Japanese real estate culture.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Japanese haunted houses and ghost stories
• Negotiation and family involvement in Japanese real estate
• Overgrown properties and renovation stories
• Cultural norms in Japanese property transactions
• Unique architectural features and hidden rooms in Japanese houses

💻 RESOURCES

Strange Houses (Book): https://a.co/d/0bkSTsmd

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

In this episode, Robin shares his unique experience growing up between Japan and the US, his journey into entrepreneurship in Fukuoka, and insights into Japanese culture and work ethic. Discover how his background shaped his career and the opportunities in Japan for foreigners. Robin shares insights into the Japanese real estate market, cultural nuances, and his experiences working with clients and agents in Japan. Discover how local practices differ from Western norms and what it takes to succeed in this unique environment.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Robin's background growing up in Chicago and Tokyo
• The startup ecosystem in Fukuoka and Startup Fukuoka City program
• Cultural differences between Japan and the US, especially work ethic and lifestyle
• Impact of COVID-19 on Robin’s plans and life in Japan
• The role of language and education in Japan for foreigners Differences between Japanese and Western real estate practices
• The importance of cultural sensitivity in Japan
• Challenges of working with Japanese agents
• Strategies for successful client relationships in Japan
• The impact of age and experience on agent behavior
• Shady practices in Japanese real estate and how to avoid them

💻 RESOURCES

Where to find Robin → instagram.com/studioapexjapan/
Real Gaijin Podcast → youtube.com/@RealGaijin

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

In this episode, we explore the differences between rural and urban living in Japan and the US, discuss property buying strategies, and share insights on language barriers and community integration for foreigners in Japan. We explore cultural differences in social interactions, health practices, and rural versus city living in Japan and beyond. Our panel discusses how these nuances impact daily life, community, and personal well-being.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Differences between rural and urban Japan
• Property prices and budgets in Japan
• Language barriers and community integration
• Renovation challenges in Japan
• Legal protections for properties in rural areas
• City planning and walkability in Japan
• Cultural differences in housing and community
• Impact of local laws on property development Japanese social norms and greetings
• Rural versus urban community life in Japan
• Japan's health check system and waistline regulations
• Impact of micro interactions on well-being
• Cultural differences in friendliness and social behavior

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

In this episode, Derek, Vee, and Nick explore the unique aspects of Japanese culture and society that stand out compared to their home countries. They discuss topics like cleanliness, craftsmanship, community pride, and the challenges and opportunities in Japan's urban and rural areas.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Japanese cleanliness and trash management
• Japanese craftsmanship and pride in work
• Community and local business culture in Japan
• Differences in infrastructure and urban planning
• Immigration policies and demographic challenges in Japan

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

In this episode, Vee, Derek, and Nick explore the intricacies of visas, residency, and life in Japan, sharing personal experiences and practical advice for navigating the Japanese immigration system. They explore Japan's visa system, citizenship laws, and the opportunities for foreigners to live and work in Japan. They discuss various visa types, the challenges of immigration, and practical tips for navigating Japan's legal landscape.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Types of visas needed to live in Japan
• The process of obtaining a work visa in Japan
• Differences between tourist and resident visas
• The points-based system for permanent residency
• Challenges of finding housing in Japan as a foreigner
• Cultural differences in social integration
• Myths about visas and property ownership in Japan
• The impact of COVID-19 on visa processing and travel
• Strategies for long-term stay and residency in Japan
• Personal experiences of moving to and living in Japan Japan visa types and requirements
• Citizenship laws and citizenship by birth
• Challenges of immigration and community building
• Practical tips for visa application and switching
• Opportunities for entrepreneurs and digital nomads
• Impact of foreign investment on Japan's economy
• Cultural perceptions of foreigners in Japan

💻 RESOURCES

https://jobs.gaijinpot.com/

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

In this episode, Derek and Nick welcomes their new co-host Vee!
They delve into starting a business as a foreigner, and discuss practical steps, legal considerations, and personal experiences of entrepreneurship in Japan. They discuss navigating business and visas in Japan, the impact of recent policy changes, and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to start in Japan. They share insights on real estate costs, cultural differences, and building a supportive network.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Vee's background and journey to living in Japan
• Starting a business in Japan as a foreigner
• Legal considerations and bureaucracy in Japan
• Importance of trust and delegation in business
• Steps to start a business: from idea to execution
• Japanese visa types and work restrictions
• Government support for foreign entrepreneurs
• Common challenges and cultural differences Visa policy changes in Japan
• Cost of real estate and business setup in Japan
• Cultural differences affecting business
• Importance of local networks and resources
• Opportunities in Japan's aging business landscape

💻 RESOURCES
www.zehitomo.com

🎧 CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and new host background
03:02 Vee's journey from UK to Japan
06:59 Starting a business in Japan: initial steps
11:59 Legal challenges and bureaucracy in Japan
17:56 Trust, delegation, and building a team
22:59 Visa types and legal restrictions for foreigners
27:07 Government programs supporting foreign entrepreneurs
30:05 Practical advice for starting a business in Japan

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

Tune into this episode of YukiHomes Presents to hear Nick and Derek break down how they surfed and skied in Japan in the same day! From the logistics to the chaos to whether it's actually worth it, they cover it all.

They break down Hokkaido (and why Otaru is the safer buy over the localized Pacific-side breaks near Muroran), the Sendai "middle ground," why Miyazaki's ski hill is basically a North Carolina-style bump, and the reality of winter surf consistency — including a stretch where a full season produced zero solid swells. They also cover Okinawa's tide-dependent point breaks, the surprisingly rideable (and cheap) coastline near Fukushima, and rumored slabs up in Niigata/Akita on the Sea of Japan side.

If you're weighing a Japan property purchase around a surf-and-ski lifestyle, this one lays out where the snow is genuinely world-class, where the waves are actually consistent, and why "buy for the snow first" is still the honest answer.

🎙️ TOPICS COVERED

• Hokkaido: Otaru vs. the Pacific side (Muroran) vs. Niseko/Rusutsu
• Sendai as a surf-and-ski middle ground
• Miyazaki's ski hill — myth vs. reality
• Winter surf consistency (or lack of it)
• Okinawa's point breaks and tide dependence
• The Fukushima coastline: cheap land, recovering surf
• Niigata/Akita slabs on the Sea of Japan side
• Earthquake/tsunami risk on Pacific-facing properties

🔗 WHERE TO FIND US
Yukihomes -> instagram.com/yukihomesjapan
Michikusa -> instagram.com/michikusa.world
Substack -> yukihomes.substack.com
PR -> vee@yukihomes.com

Got a topic or question you want covered? Email hello@yukihomes.com or send us a DM!

Tune into this episode of YukiHomes Presents to hear all about our favorite ski resorts across Japan and where we believe are good investment opportunities!