Shu Matsuo Post

2:56:24 – Tokyo Marathon 🇯🇵

Ten days ago I wasn’t even sure I’d make it to the start line. A back injury had me questioning everything. Today, in warmer weather and not as prepared as I wanted to be, I cramped harder in the final 2km than I ever have before.

This wasn’t my best race.

It was one of the hardest finishes I’ve ever had.

But I’m so relieved I still brought it home under 3 hours.

I’m grateful for my family cheering along the course. Seeing them reminded me why I do hard things. I hope one day my kids lace up and run beside me.

The Tokyo Akiya Marathon Season Finale drops soon -
Stay tuned!

#tokyomarathon #tokyo #akiya #marathon

22 hours ago | [YT] | 806

Shu Matsuo Post

Imagine landing at Narita or Haneda and being inside your own Japanese home in under an hour. ✈️🏠

That’s the "Chiba Advantage." It’s the most versatile prefecture in Japan, offering everything from ocean views to traditional fixer-uppers, all with world-class accessibility.

I’m taking you on a tour of four unique properties to see if the hype is real. If you’ve ever thought about buying in Japan, you cannot miss this one.

New video out now! Which do you think is more important: proximity to the airport or a view of the ocean?

https://youtu.be/sQpfscmlCbk

23 hours ago | [YT] | 95

Shu Matsuo Post

How fast can you get the keys to your Japanese home? 🗝️🇯🇵

Whether you’re racing toward a 2-week "Best-Case Scenario" or navigating a 4-month marathon, preparation is the only thing standing between you and your move-in date.

Learn more here: akiyahub.com/application/articles/67726952cf0b1939…

1 day ago | [YT] | 154

Shu Matsuo Post

Renting in Japan is more than just a monthly payment, it’s a unique system of "Key Money," family guarantors, and DIY light fixtures! 💡🏠

Understanding these cultural rituals is the first step to making your move smoother and your budget more accurate.

Learn more about it here: akiyahub.com/application/articles/68b8ec9d2a0715b9…

2 days ago | [YT] | 94

Shu Matsuo Post

Hey everyone - quick favor 🙏

I’ll be running the Tokyo Marathon on Sunday, March 1st!
If you happen to be out cheering anywhere along the course and you see me suffering… I mean, running 😅 could you film a short clip?
If possible:

• Please film in horizontal (landscape)

• Keep it steady for a few seconds

• And upload it to this folder:

drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Ka6oD4gAXw1NZpSxbF…

Please include your name in the file name so I can credit you properly.
I’m putting together a marathon video, and it would be amazing to include footage from you guys along the route.

Let’s make this one special. See you out there 🏃‍♂️🔥

2 days ago | [YT] | 358

Shu Matsuo Post

If you were buying in the Tokyo area, which would you prioritize?

Read more:
akiyahub.com/application/articles/68d340c993c72b34…

3 days ago | [YT] | 32

Shu Matsuo Post

The biggest risk in Japan’s real estate market isn't a rotting wooden house. It's "Invisible Vacancy." 🏢🌑

56% of Japan's vacant homes are actually inside multi-family buildings. They don't look abandoned from the street, but behind locked doors, they are breaking the governance of entire buildings.

From the inheritance tax "loop" to the massive legal changes coming in 2026, we’re looking at why Japan is currently oversupplied and yet... still building.

Get ready for a deep dive into the Akiya 2030 Problem. New video out now!

https://youtu.be/503dTnIvp1Y

4 days ago | [YT] | 158

Shu Matsuo Post

Think you can "sleep on it" when you find a dream home in Japan? ⏱️🏠

Our latest Q3 2025 data shows that nearly half of all sold listings are gone in just 45 days. If you want to win in this market, you need to move from "browsing" to "buying" faster than you think!

Read More: akiyahub.com/application/articles/691a7977c1dcbd6b…

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5 days ago | [YT] | 151

Shu Matsuo Post

Did you know that Japan is home to nearly 11 million vacant houses? 🏠✨

These properties, known as Akiya, are often Japan's best-kept real estate secret. Despite common myths, "Akiya" doesn't mean a house is haunted or falling apart—it simply means it’s waiting for its next chapter!

From 200-year-old Kominka farmhouses with massive hand-hewn beams to sleek, modern suburban builds that are move-in ready, the variety is staggering. Many of these homes are surprisingly affordable and located in stunning areas, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of Japanese heritage or find a high-value starter home. Whether you're looking for a DIY renovation project or a peaceful countryside retreat, there is an Akiya out there that fits your vision. 🏯🔑


Read More: akiyahub.com/application/articles/677745dd62420ec5…

6 days ago | [YT] | 249

Shu Matsuo Post

Moving to Japan is a massive leap. Moving with a family is a marathon. But buying a home here? That’s a whole different level. 🏠👨‍👩‍👦

Meet Ivy. She traded the Pacific Northwest for the streets of Kawasaki to give her son a life in Japan. From local schools to the reality of Japanese real estate, Ivy is opening her doors to show us what it’s really like to plant permanent roots here.

Check out today's video for the bold reality of buying a home and raising a family in Japan.

https://youtu.be/QfabYjW9ljQ

1 week ago | [YT] | 251