Osaka is one of Japan’s leading centers of commerce and culture, home to a vibrant population of around 2.7 million people. Bustling districts like Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba are lined with department stores and restaurants, while the city also boasts a wide range of tourist attractions, including Universal Studios Japan and Dotonbori.
Osaka has an extensive transportation network, with subways, JR lines, and private railways forming a dense web throughout the city. It also offers convenient access to both Osaka International Airport (Itami) and Kansai International Airport.
Driving an economy worth ¥43.1 trillion—equivalent to 7.6% of Japan’s GDP—Osaka stands as the nation’s second-largest commercial hub(*1), attracting leading corporations and hosting a broad spectrum of headquarters and regional bases.
Following a rapid post-COVID recovery in inbound tourism, Osaka’s short-term rental market is experiencing significant growth. This surge is driven by favorable exchange rates that allow foreign investors to acquire properties at relatively low prices, as well as rising demand for serviced apartments and vacation rentals in anticipation of the Osaka–Kansai Expo in 2025.
As of 2025, simulations for one-room vacation rentals in central Osaka report cases with an 80% annual occupancy rate and an average nightly rate of ¥18,000 (*2). During peak seasons, nightly rates have been known to reach double the pre-COVID levels, with bookings filled well in advance—indicating the potential for high-occupancy, high-revenue operations.
Osaka is considered a high-potential area for capital gains, driven by rising land prices fueled by multiple large-scale redevelopment projects. Commercial districts—particularly around Umeda—have seen significant land price increases, with major initiatives such as the Umekita Phase 2 Development Project underway in front of JR Osaka Station. Additionally, upcoming mega-events like the Expo 2025 and the planned Integrated Resort (IR) further contribute to expectations of continued value growth.
According to the 2025 official land price data, property values in Osaka Prefecture continue to rise—up 2.3% year-on-year for residential land and 7.6% for commercial land. Central Osaka, particularly areas such as Kita and Chuo Wards, recorded even higher growth rates, with residential land prices increasing by 7.4% and commercial land by 13.6% (*3).
Given these conditions, there remains strong potential for continued property price growth in the future. With long-term asset appreciation expected, Osaka presents an attractive opportunity for real estate investors.
Osaka offers a globally competitive investment environment, supported by large-scale projects involving foreign capital and the development of world-class infrastructure. In addition to major initiatives like the Expo and Integrated Resort (IR) project, urban transport systems are being significantly upgraded—most notably through the construction of the Naniwasuji Line—enhancing access to Kansai International Airport and Shin-Osaka Station.
Furthermore, the entry of international hotel chains has expanded the city’s capacity to accommodate global travelers, while also driving increased demand for commercial facilities and office space—contributing to the overall rise in property values across surrounding areas.
For example, in addition to established tourist attractions like Universal Studios Japan and Dotonbori, anticipation surrounding major upcoming events is driving increased demand not only from international tourists but also from business travelers. These diverse factors make Osaka a real estate market that offers both reliability and profitability as an international investment destination.
When searching for a property in Osaka, the first and most important step is to clearly define your investment objective. Whether you're looking for a residence, a property for long-term rental, a short-term rental such as a vacation home, or an asset aimed at future capital gains, the ideal area, property type, and applicable regulations will vary significantly depending on your goals.
To begin your property search, start by using English-friendly online real estate portals.
If you are considering operating a short-term rental, it's essential to comply with local regulations—such as Osaka City’s unique ordinances, zoning restrictions, and neighborhood relations—since failure to do so may make it difficult to continue the business. Consulting with a local expert is highly recommended.
Umeda, located in the heart of Osaka, is undergoing major redevelopment and has become a hub for high-rise condominiums and office buildings that support a live-work lifestyle. Projects such as the Umekita Phase 2 Development in front of JR Osaka Station are transforming the cityscape in significant ways.
According to the 2025 official land price data, residential land in Kita Ward has shown strong growth, with one notable example being a 10.2% year-on-year increase in Kōbaichō between 2024 and 2025 (*3). This area is well-suited for investors seeking stable rental income along with mid- to long-term capital gains.
Shinsaibashi and Namba serve as the commercial and tourism heart of Osaka, attracting large numbers of visitors from both Japan and abroad. Land prices in this area are among the highest in the city. According to the 2025 official land price data, Dotonbori 1-chome in Chuo Ward recorded a 22.6% year-on-year increase in commercial land value (*2).
Short-term rental demand is extremely high in the Namba and Shinsaibashi areas, with some properties achieving high nightly rates and occupancy levels. However, due to strict zoning regulations and local ordinances, it is essential to confirm legal requirements in advance before operating a vacation rental business.
Tennoji and Abeno are areas undergoing redevelopment centered around Abeno Harukas, with excellent transportation access. The area surrounding the station combines commercial facilities and residential developments, creating a comfortable living environment particularly well-suited for families. According to the 2025 official land price data, residential land prices in Osaka’s six central wards—including Tennoji—saw a high average annual increase of 7.4% (*2).
Multiple new condominium developments are underway, making this area well-suited for investors targeting stable, long-term demand from family-oriented residents.
Located along the Osaka Loop Line, Kyobashi and Morinomiya offer excellent accessibility and are currently undergoing major redevelopment in preparation for the Osaka–Kansai Expo 2025, including plans for a new train station and a large-scale arena. While land prices remain lower than in central areas, future value appreciation is expected as urban infrastructure improves after the Expo. In Morinomiya, where development is underway toward a full-scale opening by spring 2028, early entry offers investors the advantage of lower initial costs with strong long-term growth potential.
The Bay Area—home to the Osaka–Kansai Expo 2025 venue—is a high-risk, high-return zone where major developments such as the Integrated Resort (IR) and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) facilities are underway. Extensive infrastructure improvements are in progress, alongside numerous plans for new residential and commercial projects. While the Expo and IR are expected to significantly boost property values, the area also carries considerable risks due to uncertainties in development timelines and fluctuating demand. If tourism and business activity continue to grow in the long term, the potential for substantial real estate appreciation remains strong.
As the central hub of the “Kansai Triangle” alongside Kyoto and Kobe, Osaka offers excellent access to both historic cultural sites and port towns. This positioning is driving growing demand for urban vacation homes that offer a wide variety of experiences not typically available in a single city.
Major areas such as Umeda, Abeno, and Sakaisuji-Hommachi offer excellent transportation access, well-developed commercial facilities, and a high level of safety. Compared to Tokyo, living costs are more affordable, making these neighborhoods comfortable and well-suited for long-term stays and remote work.
However, if you are considering operating a short-term rental, it is essential to comply with strict legal regulations—such as zoning restrictions, Osaka City’s unique ordinances limiting the number of operating days, and requirements to hold briefings for local residents and establish a system for handling complaints.
When considering a vacation home or investment property in Osaka, it's important to first consult with a reliable real estate agency. Japan’s legal and tax systems can be complex, and foreign investors may face unfamiliar procedures, financing challenges, and—if operating a short-term rental—strict compliance requirements related to zoning and municipal regulations.
The key to a successful investment is choosing a company that can communicate smoothly in your native language or English, has experience with short-term rental operations and licensing procedures, and offers one-stop support—from property acquisition to permit applications, daily operations, and management.
It’s also important to work with a company that collaborates with professionals such as tax accountants and judicial scriveners who are experienced in handling the specific tax procedures and legal matters faced by non-residents.
By partnering with a real estate company that meets these criteria, you can move forward with your vacation home purchase or short-term rental investment in Osaka with greater confidence and efficiency.
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From brokerage to management and valuation, they offer a wide range of real estate services.
Backed by Nomura Securities' network and insights, they enables investment-focused proposals that take into account both current returns and long-term growth potential.
Major metropolitan areas across Japan
(Tokyo 23 wards, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Sapporo, Fukuoka, etc.)
The first and only partner in Japan (*1) of Forbes Global Properties, an international luxury platform that only allows membership to top real estate companies from each country.
They selectively introduce penthouses, resorts, and condominiums priced over USD 2 million.
Tokyo’s prime districts, top resort areas like Hakuba, Furano, and Niseko.
Real Estate Japan is one of the largest portal sites in Japan with property listings for foreigners (*2), where you can research desired real estate properties by preferred area, requirements, and features.
With diverse affordable housing options available, you can easily find a home that matches your needs.
Nationwide
(*1) Source: TonTon Forbes Global Properties (https://tonton-inc.com/news/notice/3865)
(*2) Source: realestatejapan (https://realestate.co.jp/en), as of May 29, 2025