Kyushu: Area Guide, Getting There & Homes

You'll Fall in Love:

Experience a harmonious blend of tradition, nature, and modern living.

Kyushu offers an unparalleled lifestyle, where you can immerse yourself in the warmth of its culture, the serenity of its natural landscapes, and the convenience of its modern cities. From soaking in therapeutic onsen to savoring world-renowned cuisine and exploring historic sites, Kyushu provides a rich and fulfilling experience for every resident and visitor.

Geography Profile:

A diverse island landscape offering volcanic peaks, lush forests, and stunning coastlines.

Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island, is a land of dramatic contrasts. Dominated by mountainous terrain and volcanic activity, it's home to Mount Aso, one of the world's largest calderas. Its extensive coastline features beautiful beaches and scenic bays, while inland areas boast fertile plains and ancient forests. The island is divided into seven prefectures, each with unique geographical characteristics.

Climate Snapshot:

Enjoy a mild, subtropical climate with distinct seasons ideal for year-round living.

Kyushu experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters. The southern parts of the island have a more pronounced subtropical feel. Rainfall is abundant, particularly during the June-July rainy season (Baiu). Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty and cultural sites.

Legal Ownership (Japan):

One of the most open markets; full freehold for foreigners

Japan places no nationality or residency restriction on buying property; foreigners get the same freehold rights to land and buildings as citizens, with no visa needed to buy. Ownership confers no right to live in Japan. Under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act (FEFTA), non residents must report acquisitions to the Bank of Japan, and from April 2026 all buyers declare nationality at registration. The government is reviewing tighter foreign ownership rules, but nothing currently blocks purchases. Agricultural land needs local committee approval.

Laws change. Always consult a licensed real estate attorney before purchasing.

Capital Gains Tax:

Japan taxes property gains separately from other income, with a sharp five year split. Sell within five years and you pay about 39.63 percent. Hold longer and it drops to roughly 20.315 percent. The five year line is judged as of 1 January of the sale year, so timing matters. Selling your main home lets you exclude up to 30 million yen of gain. Non residents face a 10.21 percent withholding at sale.

We are confirming the capital gains rates for this location against the official schedule, so they are not shown here yet. Check with the local registry office, or a local lawyer, for the figure that applies to a specific property.

Stamp Duty & Registration:

Japan charges no special tax on foreign buyers. The buyer pays real estate acquisition tax of 3 to 4 percent of assessed value, registration and license tax of around 1.5 to 2 percent for ownership transfer, and a modest documentary stamp duty scaling from a few thousand to 60,000 yen. With agent commission and judicial scrivener fees, total purchase costs are usually about 6 to 8 percent of the price.

We are confirming the stamp duty and registration rates for this location against the official schedule, so they are not shown here yet. Check with the local registry office, or a local lawyer, for the figure that applies to a specific property.

Frequently Asked Questions