3LDK Apartment in Kitakyushu with Roof Balcony

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.

Introduced after the 1978 Miyagi earthquake. Buildings must withstand a major earthquake (Shindo 6-7) without collapse. Performed significantly better in the 1995 Kobe earthquake than older buildings.

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.

60-100 days/year. Significant local restrictions. Common in areas with hotel industry lobbying or concerns about neighborhood disruption. May limit operations to weekends, holidays, or off-peak seasons only.

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.