Golden opportunity? 8 Japanese ski properties that have recently dropped in price

If you’re browsing Uchi and notice some beautiful Japanese homes that have recently dropped their prices—take heed as not only does this present a golden opportunity—this could be the sign you’ve been looking for. How can these price reductions actually work to your advantage?

Firstly, it goes without saying that sellers often reduce their prices to attract more interest. In resort areas this is often during the shoulder season when sellers are more motivated and the number of buyers in town might be less. This means you can find a lovely Japanese pad at a more approachable price point before the winter market picks up again.

Also, properties that have been on the market for a while or sellers who need to close fast are often more flexible on price. This can give you the chance to negotiate a great deal with less competition. It’s a great opportunity to increase your negotiation power as sellers might be more willing to make concessions. This puts you in a strong position to negotiate the final price and possibly include additional perks.

Finally, lower-priced homes in desirable areas offer excellent value. If you can pick up a property at a below-market rate you are already ahead of the curve in terms of potential capital gains. Given that many sellers are themselves international investors, they may also be pricing in their mind in their home currency—meaning if it makes sense for you in your currency you can pick up a bargain. Properties on Uchi are almost all in Japanese yen, which is to your advantage as the yen is historically weak at the moment against many major currencies.

In short, a price reduction doesn’t mean the home isn’t desirable—it often signals an opportunity for savvy buyers to make a smart investment in a lovely Japanese home.

We’ve hand-picked 8 great options currently available on Uchi, who knows, your time could be now.

Spacious 8-Bedroom Mountain Retreat

Location: Tateshina Resort Town, Nagano
Price: ¥46,200,000 (~USD: $310,000)

Spacious 8-Bedroom Mountain Retreat. View more images

A rare opportunity to own a spacious 8-bedroom home in Tateshina’s resort area, offering over 370 sqm of living space and access to resort amenities like onsen, golf, and ski facilities—perfect for families, retreats, or long-term investment.

Located in the tranquil Tateshina Tokyu Resort Town in Nagano, this two-story residence combines comfort and scale, featuring multiple bathrooms, a private balcony, and the privacy of a detached home.

Situated on a large 2,236.59 sqm leasehold plot, it also includes warehouse and storage space, making it ideal for seasonal stays or extended use.

Muneki Lodge

Location: Madarao, Nagano
Price: ¥58,000,000 (~USD: $390,000)

Muneki Lodge – Madarao. View more images

Muneki Lodge offers a rare opportunity for refurbishment with immense potential. Located in a prime spot, it features stunning views from its spacious common area and most rooms with ensuite facilities, making it ideal for a modern hospitality upgrade.

The property also includes a versatile retail space suited for a café, boutique, or community hub. Additionally, approximately 6,500 sqm of off-site land provides unlimited options for future development or outdoor activities.

Naka-Karuizawa 4 Bedroom Villa

Location: Karuizawa, Nagano
Price: ¥180,000,000 (~USD: $1,220,000)

Naka-Karuizawa 4 Bedroom Villa. View more images

Located in the tranquil Uenohara area of Karuizawa, this American-style detached house sits on a flat 697 sqm lot and is just about 8 minutes (2.5 km) by car from Nakakaruizawa Station. Spanning approximately 200 sqm, the 4-bedroom home features a built-in garage and is fully furnished, offering both comfort and convenience in a quiet, accessible setting.

Daisetsuzan

Location: Country Resort, Niseko, Hokkaido
Price: ¥69,000,000 (~USD: $470,000)

Daisetsuzan – Country Resort. View more images

Situated on a coveted outer plot within Country Resort, Daisetsuzan offers peaceful forest surroundings and stunning views of Mt. Yotei, embodying the serenity of its namesake mountain range.

The cosy 124 m² home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a versatile layout centred around the main living, dining, and kitchen area. A second living room with shoji doors provides additional flexibility as a guest or sleeping area, office, or relaxation space, making it an ideal retreat for families or groups seeking quiet comfort and functionality in Niseko.

Elevated Kabayama House

Location: Niseko, Hokkaido
Price: ¥160,000,000 (~USD: $1,090,000)

Elevated Kabayama House. View more images

Located on an elevated plot in Kabayama near The Orchards, this well-maintained family residence offers stunning views of Mt. Annupuri, Mt. Yotei, and rolling farmland.

The cosy interior features warm wood paneling, ample bedrooms, wash areas, a large loft, and storage, making it ideal for larger families or groups. The spacious land lot provides opportunities for renovation, such as adding a gym or workshop, enhancing the property’s value. Additionally, income potential exists through Airbnb-style short-term rentals with a minpaku license or long-term seasonal rentals.

Minami-Karuizawa Nanpeidai Villa

Location: Karuizawa, Nagano
Price: ¥345,000,000 (~USD: $2,340,000)

Minami-Karuizawa Nanpeidai Villa. View more images

This stunning 3-bedroom detached house, with a total floor area of 202.69 sqm, is nestled among trees on a private site, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Asama from the balcony, terrace, and even the luxurious view bath.

The spacious second-floor living, dining, and kitchen areas enjoy panoramic Mt. Asama vistas, while the garden allows you to experience Karuizawa’s beautiful four seasons in comfort and style.

Historic “Niseko Kominka”

Location: Rankoshi, Hokkaido
Price: ¥17,000,000 (~USD: $120,000)

Historic “Niseko Kominka”. View more images

This rare opportunity offers a beautifully preserved 98-year-old traditional Japanese kominka in Kombu Town, just a short drive from Niseko’s world-famous ski resorts. Situated on a generous 257 tsubo (850.05 sqm) of land, the single-story 5LDK layout provides ample space, making it ideal as a countryside retreat, private residence, or boutique renovation project.

Surrounded by lush nature and backing onto the Shiribetsu River, the peaceful and private setting embodies Japan’s rural charm, and the property’s access to pristine well water adds a rare and desirable feature to this exceptional home.

Akagashi

Location: The Orchards, Niseko, Hokkaido
Price: ¥280,000,000 (~USD: $1,900,000)

Akagashi – The Orchards. View more images

Surrounded by vast farmland and sweeping views of the Hirafu Ski Area, the Akagashi chalet at The Orchards Niseko offers 195 m² of flexible living space over two floors with three bedrooms.

Inspired by evergreen oaks, it features an inviting entryway that leads to a semi-open plan kitchen, dining, and living area—perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests. Additional comforts include a versatile lounge space and a spacious owner’s storage for skis and seasonal gear, making it a truly inviting and practical mountain retreat.

Like what you see? Go here to see the latest price drop listings, only on Uchi.