Key Facts
• Concerns arise over foreign real estate acquisition via ‘minpaku’ (private lodging).
• Osaka accounts for 95% of ‘special zone minpaku’ certifications nationwide.
• Over 40% of operators in Osaka are Chinese or Chinese-affiliated entities.
• Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura proposed halting new applications in late July 2025.
• Issues include noise, garbage disposal, and operational challenges from foreign operators.
• Entire buildings acquired by Chinese investors are being used for lodging purposes.
• Osaka City formed a project team to address these issues, aiming for solutions by September 2025.
Summary
The rise of ‘special zone minpaku’ in Osaka has sparked concerns over foreign real estate acquisitions, with over 40% of operators being Chinese or Chinese-affiliated. These accommodations, designed to meet the growing demand from international tourists, have faced issues such as noise and improper garbage disposal. Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura has called for a temporary halt to new applications, citing the need for stricter regulations. Cases of entire buildings being converted into lodging by Chinese investors have further highlighted the urgency for action. A project team has been established to address these challenges, with concrete measures expected by September 2025.
