With Tokyo & Osaka approaching their pre-1990's property bubble peak, and yields in other investment hot-spots such as Fukuoka, Kyoto and Nagoya also gaining in price and becoming more compressed, opportunity-seeking investors are on the lookout for smaller cities that may still provide higher, yet stable and reliable rental returns. However, in a country as insular as Japan, where cities other than those already frequented by international visitors remain veiled in language and cultural isolation, the quest for attractive investment destinations can be difficult.

Hakone, a popular hot spring resort in Kanagawa Prefecture, may introduce its first lodging tax and increase the bathing tax due to financial strain from tourism-related costs.

Foreigners are increasingly buying property in Japan, but it involves complexities. Key points include choosing buildings constructed post-1981, low property taxes, and favorable mortgage rates. However, obtaining mortgages without permanent residency is tough. Condos might have hidden high maintenance costs, and older homes often require significant repairs. Buyers should be well-informed to navigate Japan's buyer-friendly yet nuanced market.

Japan's Ajinomoto is set to acquire U.S.-based Forge Biologics for $546 million. The deal, pending regulatory approval, is expected to be completed in December 2023. Ajinomoto plans to integrate Forge into its AminoScience platform to advance treatments for rare diseases.