$56K Tokyo Buy: Rental Potential!

$56K Tokyo Buy: Rental Potential!
Apartment in a Historic Tokyo Hub with 10% Yield Outlook
Compact Tokyo apartment, big rental potential
Quiet Kokubunji neighborhood with excellent rail access
14 min walk to Kokubunji Station / ~20 min train to Shinjuku
All-in cost: ¥8.3M or ~$56,000 USD as of July 2025
Just west of Tokyo’s bustling core lies Kokubunji, a leafy, livable city that blends historic charm with modern convenience. And tucked into a quiet residential neighborhood here is a humble 1-room apartment that might just be one of the most accessible passive income opportunities we’ve seen in greater Tokyo.
Purchased as an investment property and currently under renovation, this 29 sqm unit cost just ¥8.3 million total (about $56K USD), inclusive of closing fees, tenant placement, and upgrades. Once renovations are complete, it will be a clean, efficient long-term rental aimed at Tokyo commuters. It’s expected to bring in about ¥70,000 ($473 USD) per month, putting the gross yield over 10%.
💼 A Turnkey Income Property in the Making
Originally built in 1968, this compact unit is part of the long-standing Kokubunji Co-op complex. It features:
29.04 sqm (~312 sqft) layout with kitchen, bath, and laundry
Tatami room with built-in closet, convertible to modern sleeping area
Separate bathroom and toilet for privacy
A small porch that opens to a tranquil green area
Water, sewer, and city gas connected
It's rare to find a Tokyo property at this price point with such clear rental viability. And for those looking to get started in Japanese real estate, it’s a low-cost entry into a high-demand market.
🚉 Transit Access: Commuter-Friendly Convenience
Located in Higashikoigakubo, the apartment is a 14-minute walk from Kokubunji Station, a major rail hub served by:
JR Chūō Line: Direct to Shinjuku in ~20 minutes
Seibu Kokubunji & Tamako Lines
Nearby Nishi-Kokubunji Station on the JR Musashino Line
From Kokubunji, it’s an easy trip into central Tokyo, making this a great location for working professionals or students seeking affordable housing within commuting range.
🌿 Why Kokubunji? More Than Just a Transit Junction
Kokubunji is one of Tokyo’s most underrated neighborhoods. Home to about 123,000 residents, it offers:
Rich history dating to the 8th century, with ancient temple remains
Beautiful seasonal scenery at Tonogayato Gardens
Green walking paths and summer fireflies along the Nogawa River
A peaceful suburban atmosphere ideal for families or solo renters
It’s a city where modern infrastructure meets centuries of tradition, all just minutes from central Tokyo.
✨ Quick Property Snapshot
🏡 1-room unit in established corpo
🏦 29.04 sqm / ~312 sqft
🌟 Built in 1968 / Renovations underway
🚊 14 min walk to Kokubunji Station / ~20 min train to Shinjuku
💵 Total cost: ¥8.3M / ~$56,000 USD
🏣 Expected rent: ¥70,000 / ~$473 USD
📊 Gross yield: ~10%
🎥 Check It Out!
📄 Want to Know More?
If you're curious about rental properties in Japan, we can help:
Break down the process for overseas investors
Connect you with bilingual real estate agents and property managers
Help you understand Japanese rental regulations
Offer guidance on renovation, furnishing, and tenant placement
Whether this is your first unit or your fifth, we’re here to simplify the process.
🔑 Small Space, Smart Move
Could this be your step into Tokyo real estate? Reach out and let’s talk rental returns, renovation strategy, and next steps for building your Japan property portfolio.
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