Commercial Building in Taito-ku, Tokyo

Properties were only required to withstand moderate earthquakes (Shindo 5). Many suffered significant damage in the 1995 Kobe earthquake. A structural assessment is recommended — seismic retrofitting typically costs ¥1M-¥3M.

Enhanced requirements after the 1995 Kobe earthquake including mandatory ground surveys, wall balance calculations, and strengthened connections between structural components. The strongest standard.

365 days/year. National Strategic Special Zones (like parts of Osaka and Tokyo) allow year-round short-term rentals with no day limit. Minimum stay: 2 nights.

Up to 180 days/year. The national standard under the Minpaku Law. Registration with prefectural authorities is required. No additional local restrictions beyond the national cap.

100-180 days/year. Local government has added restrictions such as banning operations during certain periods (e.g., school days, weekdays) or in specific residential zones.

Under 60 days/year. The most restrictive municipalities effectively discourage minpaku. Kyoto, for example, limits operations to January 15 - March 16 only (~60 days). Consider a ryokan or hotel license instead.