Worried about earthquakes and floods when buying a property in Japan? Experts share tips for choosing a property and worry-free purchases!

Good news! With Japan's recent full border closure and the low yen exchange rate, the country has captured global attention, particularly among Hong Kong residents, who have a special fondness for Japan. Many are seizing the opportunity to fly to Japan, enjoying the delicious food and sightseeing. Many are also considering investing in real estate or even immigrating.

Amidst the surge in interest in Japan, a common question arises: As a disaster-prone country, do natural disasters like earthquakes and floods make buying property there risky? What are the key considerations when purchasing real estate in Japan?

Today, let’s use Branz Tower, a highly anticipated new development in Osaka, as an example to dispel these concerns one by one, so that you can feel more secure and stable when investing in a property in Japan.

Japan's earthquake resistance history and building safety standards

You may be concerned about earthquakes in Japan, but in fact, Japan has long been at the forefront of the world in earthquake-resistant building technology.

Back in 1978, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck the Miyagi region of Japan, triggering a tsunami that severely damaged existing buildings, destroying over a thousand houses. This devastating event prompted the Japanese government to significantly revise the Building Standards Law in 1981. This revision marked a significant turning point in building safety in Japan:

• Buildings built before 1981: Usually designed to withstand a magnitude 5 earthquake.

• New buildings built after 1981 must meet new seismic standards and be able to withstand earthquakes of magnitude 6 to 7.

Therefore, we strongly recommend that when purchasing property in Japan, you prioritize buildings with the New Seismic Standard Building Certification. This means that the building's seismic resistance has been significantly improved, making it better able to withstand potential earthquake threats.

Japan's leading earthquake-resistant technology: earthquake resistance, shock control, and earthquake isolation

In addition to basic building regulations, Japan has also developed a variety of advanced earthquake-resistant technologies to further ensure the safety of buildings:

1. Seismic Resistance: This is the most basic earthquake-resistant design, relying primarily on the building structure itself, such as the design of main beams and columns, building materials, and construction methods, to absorb and disperse earthquake energy.

2. Seismic Damping: Installing "shock absorbers" between a building's beams, such as the hydraulic dampers shown in Figure 1. When an earthquake occurs, these devices activate, generating a reaction force that suppresses the building's sway, effectively reducing the earthquake's impact on the structure.

3. Seismic isolation: This is a more advanced technology that places a buffer layer (such as seismic pads) between the ground and the building structure. This can divert the force of earthquake waves, effectively reducing the earthquake's intensity by 20% to 30%, "isolating" the destructive force of the earthquake and protecting the building and its interior.

The importance of geographical location: high ground advantage and flood risk

In addition to the building structure itself, the location of the property is also crucial. Take Branz Tower in Ichigaya-machi 4-chome, Osaka, for example. The project is located on Uemachi Terrace, approximately 9.5 meters above sea level, a high point in Chuo Ward.

Being built on higher ground with a stronger geological foundation means that the area is expected to be less vulnerable to flooding in the event of a large-scale earthquake or tsunami. This provides an extra layer of safety for residents.

Branz Tower Case Study: The Perfect Combination of Safety, Convenience, and Quality of Life

Branz Tower not only enjoys a strategic location, but its building structure also incorporates advanced seismic damping technology . Seismic energy-absorbing devices are integrated into the structure, effectively mitigating the building's shaking during earthquakes and reducing the risk of secondary damage to furniture caused by shaking.

What's even more appealing is that the surrounding environment of Branz Tower is extremely excellent:

• Located near Osaka Castle Park, you can easily experience historical sites such as the Osaka Castle Keep, as well as enjoy beautiful natural scenery and popular running routes.

• Convenient transportation: Just a three-minute walk to Tatsuya-cho 4-chome Station, easily connected to major areas in Osaka city.

• Complete living facilities: The area is home to many renowned restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely lifestyle.

Property Details:

• Address: 2-1-3 Tokiwa-cho, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Prefecture

• Price: Two-bedroom units, starting from 51.9 million yen

Conclusion: Real estate investment in Japan offers both security and opportunity

Japan's frequent natural disasters are certainly a factor to consider when purchasing a property, but these risks can be effectively managed and mitigated by understanding Japan's strict building standards, advanced earthquake-resistant technology, and choosing an appropriate location.