From "no idea where to buy" to
cash‑flowing rental in 3 months
fully remote.
John S.
🇺🇸 United States
THE CHALLENGE
"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."
THE SOLUTION
"Nicole helped us clarify our goals. The Fast-Track program was exactly what we needed. The additional premium was absolutely worth the convenience, support, and peace of mind."
THE RESULT
"We started our search in August, closed in September, and collected our first rental payment in October. We're now planning to purchase another property."
~3
Months Total
100%
Remote
Under 90 days
First Rent
No Ghosting Agents. No Fax Machines.
No Lost‑in‑Translation Nightmares.
You get a modern platform and a dedicated bilingual team that takes you from first search to keys, then stays with you for insurance, contractors, property management, and more.
We don't disappear after closing. That's when the even more important work starts.
Melissa S.
First-Time Buyer • Platform Experience
"The site made everything feel manageable. Sign-up was simple, and the journey was broken into small steps from exploration to closing so I could move at my own pace. The property viewer and filters made it easy to narrow down what we really wanted, and I'm sure I didn't even use half the features available."
Joe P.
Portfolio Investor • Multiple Properties
"Within 4 weeks of becoming a member, I closed on my first house in Japan. After that, AkiyaHub connected me with an insurance agent, contractor, and property manager, and even sent staff to meet me in Japan to hand over the keys for both my first and second properties. The membership has been worth every cent."
Find Someone Just Like You
No matter your situation, others have walked this path before you. See how they made it happen.
Second home & family base in Japan, handled end‑to‑end.
"This home was meant to be a special Valentine's gift for my wife, and Shu made that dream come true. We secured a verbal agreement just in time—before February 14th!"
"Our initial intent was to provide a base for family and friends to use in their visits to this vibrant country. We all look forward to creating many happy memories here."
Serious investors building portfolios, fully remote.
"We're now proud owners of two income generating properties in Japan and are excited about contributing to the economic growth and social revitalization of regional neighborhoods."
"After a deal fell through, Shu contacted me within a day with an off-market deal. Post closing, they connected me with my property manager and judicial scrivener."
Closed from overseas in weeks, without speaking Japanese.
"Stress free streamlined processing. Done it all remotely within few weeks. Can't go wrong with AkiyaHub."
"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."
"I originally was interested in a house in Chiba, but they convinced me it wouldn't be a good fit. They sent me suggestions that matched more of what I wanted."
Even experienced real estate pros trust AkiyaHub.
"As a real estate broker, I do have to mention, it is definitely different from buying property in the US. There are costs to each step but well worth it."
"Because I am a Real Estate Agent in the US, we initially attempted through an Agent in Japan. We quickly realized that wasn't going to work. AkiyaHub exceeded expectations."
"Even though I did a lot of research myself, Shu gave me peace of mind. I could email him anytime to ask, "Does this look right?""
1000+ Success Stories
Real people, real outcomes. Filter by your situation to find stories that resonate with you.
John S.
USA
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."
Peter C.
International
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!"
Ellen M.
USA
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."
Wency B.
International
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."
Jon Y.
USA
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."
Sal
International
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."
Sophia X.
International
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."
Christopher S.
USA
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."
Shaun K.
USA
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."
Thomas I.
USA
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."
Jason A.
USA
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
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."
Joe P.
USA
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."
Armando N.
International
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."
Rick S.
USA
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
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."
ジョジョ
International
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
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
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."
Brad R.
International
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."
Sharon V.
Canada
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
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."
Polo O.
International
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
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
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."
Prashneveet I.
International
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."
Sean W.
USA
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."
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