AkiyaHub reviews, customer stories, and real buyer results.

A vacation home first, then an investment condo in Kanagawa

"Working with Lynn on purchasing our Japan vacation home was a pleasure to say the least. We also worked with Emily when we purchased another property in Kanagawa. This one was an investment property (Condo). Without Lynn's and Emily's (AkiyaHub's) help in purchasing these properties, we probably would never have had the guts to actually do it! I will definitely utilize their services again in the future when looking to purchase another property."

Closed on a home in Itabashi City, Tokyo

"I just closed on a home in Itabashi City, Tokyo, and I would not have gotten there without Emily at AkiyaHub."

From YouTube binge to a dream home in Uji in about two months

"After binge-watching almost all of Shu's videos on the Akiyahub YouTube channel, my husband and I finally decided to go for it and look for a vacation home in Japan. We found a great place in Uji (the matcha capital of the world) and closed on our dream home in just about two months. We've already been back twice since closing in December 2025, and we love it so much. If you are still on the fence about buying a home in Japan, just take that leap of faith and trust them."

The fee cost less than the flights a DIY purchase would need

"We used AkiyaHub to purchase a holiday home in Japan. Lynn and the team at Akiyahub made the purchase pretty easy. It seems expensive at first, but when you actually realise what you're getting it is completely worth it. We would easily have spent the cost alone on just flights coming back and forth if we hadn't been able to do it remotely through AkiyaHub. Through AkiyaHub we were also able to organise insurance and our property manager."

Even with a Japanese spouse, remote purchase through AkiyaHub was easier

"We found and purchased a house near Odawara which suited us perfectly, as it is close enough for my wife (who is Japanese) to visit family and friends in Yokohama whilst still allowing us to have a house in a quieter area giving us the best of both worlds. Even the fact my wife is Japanese we still found it easier for us to do a remote purchase with the team at Akiyahub negotiating all the purchase details saving us time and money not having to attend Japan for the sale. We look forward to moving in to our new house within the next few months for our retirement."

Started looking in May, owned a vacation home by July

"If you ever wondered if buying a home in Japan was as easy as Shu makes it to be on Akiyahub, it's 100% true. If buying a home in Japan is something you ever wanted to do. Just take the leap. Shu and his team will make your buying experience stress free and answer any and all questions you may have. We started looking at houses in May and now own our very own vacation home in July."

Trustworthy and very responsive

"Amazing service. Trustworthy. Very Responsive. Highly Recommended."

Tested the free account first, closed 8 weeks after upgrading

"I signed up as guest only without paying the annual subscription fee, I had to take a look and see what's the catch and opportunity. Browsing through the Akiyahub tools and guides gave me the confidence I need that this is a legitimate business. By February 2026, I was ready to step into it and sign up for the full "My Journey" plan. Before the end of March, we already closed the deal which is exactly what I've planned, 8 weeks from start to finish is such an awesome feat. My family spent a week stay in May and can't wait to spend longer before the end of the year."

Ran the real numbers, chose a move-in-ready Yokohama apartment

"At first we considered a bargain Akiya. Here's the math that changed my mind. Before we got serious, AkiyaHub helped us run the real numbers. We looked at renovation estimates, a contingency plan for hidden repairs, and the months we'd spend waiting on contractors. A fully renovated Akiya apartment in Yokohama cost more upfront, but it was move-in ready. Once we added it up, the Yokohama apartment was the smarter buy. Not because the Akiya dream wasn't real, but because we finally had real numbers instead of guesses."

Bought for less than a US down payment, never flew to Japan

"We purchased our home, without needing to fly to Japan or struggle with language barriers. Even with AkiyaHub's fees included, we purchased a home for less than what would have been the down payment on one of the homes we were looking at in the USA. AkiyaHub's services are paid. Could it save you money by doing things on your own? Sure, that is a possibility. If you aren't already well versed in the real estate and legal processes in Japan, however, it is more likely you will run into frustrations and pitfalls that will cost you much more in the long run."

First contact to closing in under 3 months

"I cannot believe the quickness of reaching out to AkiyaHub staff, their response, search, offer, and closing, all done under 3 months. Emily and Nicole, thank you. Finally made it to house end of March. It has been a whirlwind experience. A good dream came true."

Professional, transparent, and thorough

"They are extremely professional, transparent & thorough. Emily provided first class customer experience throughout. Will recommend them to anybody. Thanks for always being available, clear & honest."

Specific requirements, handled patiently across time zones

"This was a dream come true and the team at Akiya Hub made the whole process super smooth! I had specifics for the type of property I was looking for and they were very patient and communicated promptly even given the time difference between countries. Honestly, the most difficult part was the waiting time during the paperwork processes. Highly recommend this company, it's well worth the price for the level of service you receive."

Buyer ahead backed out, deposit in a week, keys within a month

"Once I saw this house, I knew right away this is my dream home. However, the house had a buyer waiting. They told me not to worry. Within couple days, Emily contacted me and said the buyer backed out and I was in the buyer list. AkiyaHub worked really fast. Within a week, I put in my deposit. Within a month, I got my house. Finally got to see my house first time after 2 month purchased it. It was exactly like the video and pictures but even better."

From confused to cash-flowing rental in 3 months

"Akiyahub made our dream of owning property in Japan not just possible, but smooth, clear, and genuinely enjoyable. When we first started this journey, we weren't even sure where in Japan we wanted to buy or whether we wanted a vacation home, rental property, or short-term rental. We only knew we wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to own a home in Japan, but we needed guidance. After enrolling into their basic subscription program and inquiring about a few properties, we still felt unsure. That changed when we sat down with Nicole. She helped us clarify our goals, understand our options, and figure out a realistic plan. She introduced us to their Fast-Track program, which turned out to be exactly what we needed. The additional premium was absolutely worth the convenience, support, and peace of mind. Akiyahub held our hand through every step. They communicated clearly, kept us informed at all times, and made what could have been a stressful overseas purchase feel seamless. In the end, we got exactly what we hoped for: a rental property in Yachimata with a long-term tenant already in place. We started our search in August, closed in September, and collected our first rental payment in October. They also connected us with a reliable property manager and bookkeeper who provide monthly updates. Everyone in their network has been respectful, responsive, and easy to work with. Since we live in the U.S. and don't speak Japanese, Akiyahub even arranged for a translator for our meetings, which made the entire process comfortable and worry-free. On top of all that, we secured the property for far less than we initially budgeted that we're now planning to purchase another property sooner than we thought. And when we do, we're going straight back to Akiyahub. Truly an amazing, professional, and trustworthy service. Highly recommended."

Ellen M.

USA · Dec 2025

Family base in Chiba for generations of memories

"We recently purchased a home in Chiba through AkiyaHub. Our initial intent in purchasing a property in Japan was to be able to provide a base for family and friends to use in their visits to this vibrant and incredibly interesting country. We all look forward to creating many happy memories here."

Sal

International · Dec 2025

Done remotely within few weeks - stress free

"Stress free streamlined processing. Process goes faster than you think. Done it all remotely within few weeks just have your price ready to go. Can't go wrong with AkiyaHub."

US Real Estate Broker: Costs well worth it for remote buying

"If you're looking to purchase property in Japan and need someone to represent you due to a language barrier or lack of knowledge of how property transactions are in Japan, AkiyaHub is the way to go. As a real estate broker, I do have to mention, it is definitely different from buying property in the US but there are some similarities. There are costs to each step but well worth it if you are not living in Japan."

Armando N.

International · Dec 2025

Other agents ghosted me - AkiyaHub delivered

"I had an outstanding experience working with Akiyahub on a recent real estate purchase in Japan. Before finding Akiyahub, I reached out to two other real estate agents and never heard back after the initial call, a stark contrast to the proactive and reliable support I received from the Akiyahub team."

A lovely home in Fukuoka Prefecture

"We (my wife and I) had a successful and rewarding relationship working with AkiyaHub to find and purchase a lovely home in Fukuoka Prefecture. We couldn't be more happy."

Valentine's gift: Mt. Fuji vacation home secured before Feb 14th

"Working with Shu to purchase my vacation home in Japan was nothing short of extraordinary. This home was meant to be a special Valentine's gift for my wife, and Shu made that dream come true. From our very first conversation in January, Shu moved swiftly and skillfully. Thanks to his dedication, we secured a verbal agreement from the seller just in time, before February 14th!"

Wency B.

International · 2025

Two income properties closed, contributing to revitalization

"We recently closed on our first two properties in Japan and we absolutely couldn't have done it without the support and guidance of AkiyaHub. Navigating Japanese real estate as a foreign investor comes with its own set of challenges, including cash only transactions, language barriers, and complex regulations, but the AkiyaHub team made the entire process smooth and manageable. Thanks to their help, we're now proud owners of two income generating properties in Japan."

Off-market deal after failed seller, now planning more

"After a small mishap with one potential seller for a place I was interested in, Shu contacted me within a day after the deal fell through with an off-market deal that eventually became the place I closed on. Post closing, Shu and his team continued to keep me apprised of the updates with the property throughout the renovation, as well as connecting me with my property manager and judicial scrivener."

Sophia X.

International · 2025

Dream achieved remotely - much easier than expected

"Great experience working with the Akiyahub team! They were welcoming, professional, and always ready to help, making the process of buying a house in Japan remotely much easier than we expected. We truly couldn't have achieved this dream without them."

Changed location on expert advice - found better fit

"Just purchased a home in Yokosuka Japan using AkiyaHub. Everything from start to finish was seamless with their assistance and app use. I originally was interested in a house in Chiba, but due to the location they convinced me it wouldn't be a good fit for what I was looking for. They sent me similar suggestions in different locations that matched more of what I wanted."

US Real Estate Agent: Japanese agents failed, AkiyaHub exceeded expectations

"Because I am a Real Estate Agent in the United States, we initially attempted to facilitate our purchase through an Agent in Japan. We quickly realized that wasn't going to work because of the language difficulties and that our search area would be limited to an agent's area of expertise. We made the decision to place our trust in Shu and his skilled team and our expectations were exceeded."

Did heavy research, still needed Shu as sanity check

"I worked with Shu from AkiyaHub to buy my house in Japan, and I'm really glad I did. He's fluent in both Japanese and U.S. real estate, which made everything so much easier. Even though I did a lot of research myself, Shu gave me peace of mind in that I could email him anytime to ask, "Does this look right?" and he'd respond quickly and honestly."

Melissa S.

USA · 2025

Platform UX so good, didn't even use half the features

"I genuinely cannot express in a short, text-based review how incredible this entire process was. The website was super easy to sign up for and broken down into smaller commitments from exploration to closing that let me feel comfortable moving at my own pace. The property viewer was super easy to use with adjustable filters. And I'm sure I didn't dive into half of the features offered on the site."

Member to homeowner in 4 weeks, now multiple properties

"Within 4 weeks of becoming a member, I closed on my first house. After closing, AkiyaHub helped me get connected with an insurance agent, a contractor, and a property manager. After closing my first and second properties, AkiyaHub sent staff members to meet me each time to hand over the keys and documents. For me, the membership was worth every cent I paid."

Rick S.

USA · 2025

Already found property - AkiyaHub handled all legalities

"While we went in having already found the property we wanted, Akiyahub took the lead in terms of legalities…contacting the seller's agent, arranging the showings and inspection, securing an administrative scrivener, and finally, orchestrating the signing. Their services went well beyond simply bridging the language gap."

Robert G.

USA · 2025

Third in line - persistence got us our dream home

"We started looking for properties over the summer, but the house we really wanted was already taken. We ended up being third in line for it and thanks in large part to Akiyahub's persistence and support, we were eventually accepted. Our purchase just closed, and we couldn't be more excited."

Built rental portfolio + set up company entity in Japan

"Thanks to their help and expertise I have been able to build a rental portfolio in Japan, and plan to expand to more properties in the future. Shu has also connected me with several 3rd parties - lawyer, accountant, property management services etc - that have enabled me to set up and operate as a company entity in Japan."

Kenneth B.

International · 2025

White glove treatment - keys in 2 months hassle free

"White glove - red carpet treatment is the bare minimum for this team. We kept in constant communication, supplying necessary info and documentation making for an easy transition of ownership. Within two months, I got the keys completely hassle free. If you have the funds, are chosen by Shu and his team to be clients, AND have the desire to buy in Japan, trust me - YOU NEED THIS TEAM."

Banden T.

Malaysia · 2025

From Malaysia, found on YouTube - helped from 0 to 100

"I found him on YouTube because of the algorithm and so far the service has been really good. I just want to say I couldn't have done all this without his service and help. I really recommend everyone to use his service if you have any trouble, especially if you can't speak Japanese and if you don't know where to start, just contact Shu, he can help you from 0 to 100."

Closed in under a month - support continued after

"After doing some research I was able to close on a property in under a month with AkiyaHub's help. Nicole from the team was very helpful in providing answers to my many questions. The team help bridge both the cultural and language hurdles. Their service didn't just stop after closing either. They followed up to help facilitate insurance."

From Vancouver - recommending to all family and friends

"Shu has helped us purchase our dream home here in Japan, in Chiba Prefecture. And the process was so smooth and easy. I am recommending him to all my family and friends. You will find that Shu is very responsive, very good with problem solving and quick to respond."

Daren A.

USA · 2025

Two realtors failed us - AkiyaHub came through

"Our initial experience trying to buy a home in Japan included two realtors. We interviewed with the first gentleman for an hour during a visit to Japan. We never heard from him again. I contacted the second realtor online. He would only send us high priced real estate. I contacted Akiya Hub blindly not expecting to get a reply from them. After the interview we made arrangements to search for our new home."

Multiple transactions - best platform for foreigners

"I was working with Shu before there was even an AkiyaHub, and I can honestly say you will not find a more knowledgeable and genuine person to deal with. I have now done multiple transactions with them, and have come to the realization that they have created the best platform and support system for foreigners to achieve the dream of owning real estate in Japan."

Chris W.

USA · 2025

Almost gave up - AkiyaHub made the dream real

"It's always been a dream for my wife and I to have a second home in Japan but with so many hiccups trying to get help from real estate companies on our own, we almost gave up! Until we remembered seeing Shu Matsuo's videos and decided to reach out to the AkiyaHub team. Thanks to the AkiyaHub team, we bought our first house in Japan!!!"

Marcus P.

USA · 2025

Multiple properties - premium bespoke experience

"Shu, and his team at Akiya Hub have been so wonderful. I have truly experienced what it is like purchasing properties (now multiple with Akiyahub) In Japan. They offer a premium bespoke experience tailored to each purchase. If you are serious about buying an Akiya in Japan. Shu and Akiya Hub. Did such an amazing job."

Long-time dream realized - step by step guidance

"The team at AkiyaHub were amazing in helping me purchase my property in Japan. It's been my dream for a long time to have a home there and they really made the process streamlined and simple. They really take you step by step during the process from initially looking at houses all the way through to contracts."

Trepidatious at first - now couldn't be happier

"AkiyaHub is an amazing community and service! I was trepidatious at first, but they helped me find a great house near Osaka and worked with me at every stop to facilitate not only the purchase, but connecting me with local resources to help manage and prepare the house for future, fun vacation visits."

Zoom consult on Feb 2, keys to a Yokohama home on Mar 27

"Shu and his team are the best! Effective and great communicator. Initial consultation via zoom Feb.2 this year. We got our Hirado Yokohama house on March 27th. That is how efficient AkiyaHub are! We are also grateful of their referral to our Lulu property management."

Found a dream property in Yokohama and had it renovated

"Working with Shu and AkiyaHub was an amazing experience. I was able to find my dream property in Yokohama and have it renovated. Shu made the whole process very clear and easy to navigate. I highly recommend his services."

Repeat buyer since before AkiyaHub existed

"I have known Shu from when he first started as an individual helping people to buy property in Japan. Having bought a couple of properties with his help, I have been more than happy with his honesty and superb service. I look forward to purchasing more properties with his help!!"

Home purchase completed in 2025 with Shu explaining every step

"I completed the purchase of a home in Japan earlier this year 2025. The purchasing process was easy as it was helpful to have Shu explaining things throughout the entire process. If you plan on purchasing property in Japan, services like AkiyaHub can definitely help you out. As long as you have the financial means to do so, then this might be a good experience for you."

Fast, convenient, and clear. Already planning the next project

"Working with Shu and his team, like four thumbs up. It's a great experience. Everything is going smoothly. It's also very fast, convenient and clear. Everything is good. They make good recommendations. Very satisfied. Looking forward to the next project."