The Journal

Curated insights for the discerning investor. From architectural trends and market analysis to the hidden cultural gems of Niigata and Okinawa, explore the art of designing your Second Life in Japan

A beautiful wooden desk with a view of a Japanese garden or snow. A cup of tea and architectural plans.
Okinawan villa
The Art of Reinvention: Why I Chose Snow & Sun
Welcome They say life begins at 40. But I believe the real adventure begins when we stop doing what is “expected” and start designing a life that feels like home. For years, I built a successful...
A place that has the coral reefs, the white sand, and the hibiscus flowers... but comes with world-class safety and a fraction of the cost.
Why Okinawa is the Smart Alternative to Hawaii
Is the dream of a tropical island retirement slipping away because of the price tag? I talk to so many people who have spent decades dreaming of a “Second Life” in Hawaii. Currently, I...
Aya studying for the Takken Real Estate exam in a cafe with coffee mugs.
Why I’m Getting a Japanese Real Estate License at 53
Is 53 too old to start something this hard? I asked myself this question looking in the mirror this morning. I am 53 years old. In Japan, this is usually the age where people start counting the days...
Pristine white sand beach and turquoise ocean in Okinawa, Japan.
Cost of Okinawa Living: How to Avoid Hidden Expenses in Paradise
Have you ever found yourself squeezing onto a packed train in Tokyo, staring at a grey concrete wall, and wondering: “Is this it?” I hear this story all the time. When I help clients move...
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