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Are Sapporo property prices going up now? (June 2025)

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Property prices in Sapporo are rising steadily as we reach mid-2025, with land values climbing 8.4% in 2024 and residential properties appreciating 3-5% annually. The Sapporo residential market is experiencing robust growth driven by urbanization trends, foreign investment attracted by the weak yen, and strategic infrastructure developments across central wards like Chuo-ku and Kita-ku.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Japan, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Japanese real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Sapporo, Tokyo, and Osaka. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What are the current average property prices in Sapporo as of June 2025?

The average residential property price in Sapporo stands at ¥27,620,266 as we reach mid-2025, though this varies significantly by location and property type.

Land prices across Sapporo average ¥115,599 per square meter in 2025, representing a 2.86% year-over-year increase from the previous year's ¥110,800 per square meter. Central wards command premium prices, with Chuo-ku reaching ¥785,944 per square meter, while outer wards like Minami-ku and Teine-ku offer more affordable options.

For condominiums, the average transaction price reached ¥61.2 million in March 2025, up 5% from ¥58.29 million in March 2024. Price per square meter for condos averages ¥279,800, showing a steady 2.4% year-over-year growth. Custom-built detached homes typically range from ¥20-30 million, with full-order homes averaging around ¥30 million.

It's something we develop in our Japan property pack.

How much have property prices increased in Sapporo over the past 12 months?

Sapporo residential property prices rose 3-5% during 2024, with the growth trend continuing into 2025 at a similar pace.

Land prices experienced the most dramatic increase, jumping 8.4% from 2023 to 2024, building on a 15% rise from 2022 to 2023. This represents one of the strongest land appreciation rates among major Japanese cities outside Tokyo. Rental prices also climbed 2.7% in 2024, marking the highest increase in the Hokkaido region.

Condominium prices showed particularly strong performance, with used condos appreciating 5% year-over-year and new condo prices remaining resilient despite broader market pressures. Second-hand property prices increased 3% in 2024, supported by a 6.10% jump in average price per square meter compared to the previous year.

The vacancy rate dropped to 3.24% by mid-2024, indicating tightening market conditions that support continued price appreciation.

Which areas in Sapporo are experiencing the fastest property price growth in 2025?

Central Sapporo wards are leading price appreciation, with Chuo-ku showing the strongest growth at 6.86% annually in 2025.

Ward Average Land Price (¥/m²) 2025 YoY Growth Key Growth Drivers
Chuo-ku ¥785,944 +6.86% CBD location, premium amenities, Odori Park proximity
Shiroishi-ku ¥141,491 +5.15% Emerging residential hub, good transport links
Toyohira-ku ¥174,331 +4.71% Sapporo Dome area, growing commercial development
Higashi-ku ¥143,798 +4.20% University presence, Sapporo Beer Factory revitalization
Atsubetsu-ku ¥136,554 +3.89% Mixed-use development opportunities
Nishi-ku ¥150,419 +3.63% Live-work balance appeal, new commercial spaces
Kita-ku ¥211,590 +3.58% Hokkaido University area, student housing demand

Areas near Sapporo Station and new subway infrastructure developments are projected to maintain the strongest future growth trajectory due to ongoing redevelopment projects and improved accessibility.

What types of properties are seeing the biggest price increases in Sapporo?

Condominiums are leading Sapporo's property price surge, with central location units showing the strongest appreciation rates in 2025.

Used condominiums experienced a 5% year-over-year price increase, with average transaction prices rising from ¥58.29 million in March 2024 to ¥61.2 million in March 2025. New and renovated condos in central locations are commanding premium prices, with price per square meter reaching ¥279,800, up 2.4% year-over-year.

Detached homes in outer wards are also appreciating, though at a more moderate pace than central condominiums. The price differential between property types reflects the ongoing urbanization trend, with buyers preferring convenient central locations over suburban detached properties.

Rental properties in central Sapporo are experiencing the fastest rent growth, with a 4% year-over-year increase in late 2023, while smaller units like studios and one-bedroom apartments maintain stable pricing due to consistent demand from single-person households.

What are the property price forecasts for Sapporo in 2026 and beyond?

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How do Sapporo property prices compare to other major Japanese cities in 2025?

Sapporo offers significantly more affordable property prices compared to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, while showing similar or higher growth rates.

City Average House Price (2025) 2025 YoY Growth Price Comparison Notes
Tokyo ¥91.4 million +10.7% Central wards exceed ¥120 million; highest in Japan
Osaka ¥55-56 million ~+5% Rental prices 55.6% higher than Sapporo
Fukuoka ¥55-56 million ~+5% Similar price level to Osaka, strong regional growth
Sapporo ¥51.5 million +5.8% Best value proposition; outpacing other regional centers

Despite lower absolute prices, Sapporo's land price appreciation of 81.6% over the past decade significantly outperforms Tokyo's 28.8% growth, making it one of Japan's fastest-appreciating real estate markets.

What is driving current demand for properties in Sapporo?

Domestic migration, foreign investment, and infrastructure development are the primary drivers of Sapporo's property demand surge in 2025.

Population growth in Sapporo contrasts with Japan's national decline, with the city attracting internal migration due to job opportunities, lifestyle factors, and relatively affordable living costs. The urbanization trend is evident in central wards, with Chuo-ku experiencing 13% population growth over the past decade, making it Hokkaido's fastest-growing area.

Foreign investment has accelerated significantly due to the weak yen, making Japanese property approximately 20% cheaper for international buyers compared to 2023 levels. The tourism rebound post-pandemic has also increased demand for short-term rental properties and investment units in central and resort-adjacent areas.

Major infrastructure projects, including new subway lines and redevelopment around Sapporo Station, are creating anticipation of future value appreciation. The potential Winter Olympics bid adds another layer of long-term growth optimism.

It's something we develop in our Japan property pack.

How has the weak yen affected foreign investment in Sapporo real estate?

The yen's depreciation has created a surge in foreign real estate investment, with international buyers finding Sapporo properties significantly more affordable in 2025.

Foreign investments in Japanese real estate increased 45% in 2023, reaching $10.2 billion, with Sapporo emerging as a key beneficiary of this trend. The weak yen, trading around 130-140 per USD compared to previous levels of 110, effectively provides a 20% discount for foreign buyers.

International investors are particularly active in purchasing rental apartments and urban condominiums, attracted by rising yields and prospects for capital appreciation. Notable acquisitions include hotel portfolios like Royton Sapporo, underscoring the city's growing international appeal.

Cross-border investment is contributing to upward price pressure, especially in central areas where foreign buyers concentrate their purchases. This trend is expected to continue as long as the yen remains weak and Japan maintains favorable policies toward foreign property ownership.

infographics comparison property prices Sapporo

We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Japan compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It's an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.

What are the current rental yields and investment returns in Sapporo?

Sapporo rental yields remain steady at 4-5% for residential properties as of mid-2025, with city center properties averaging 4.25% gross rental yield.

The consistency in rental yields reflects balanced supply and demand dynamics, though yields vary by location and property type. Central areas like Chuo-ku maintain premium yields due to high rental demand, while outer wards offer slightly lower returns but potentially better capital appreciation opportunities.

Gross rental yields in Sapporo compare favorably to national averages, with Japan's overall residential yields averaging 4.2% in Q1 2025. Sapporo's yields also surpass those in major cities like Tokyo, where central district yields average only 3.44%.

The combination of 4-5% rental yields plus 3-5% annual capital appreciation creates total returns of 7-10% for well-positioned properties, making Sapporo attractive for both domestic and international real estate investors.

Are there any government policies affecting Sapporo's property market in 2025?

No major restrictive policies have been introduced in 2025, with the regulatory environment remaining favorable for both domestic and foreign property buyers.

The Sapporo Next Generation Housing Standards program provides financial incentives for energy-efficient properties, with higher efficiency rankings receiving more substantial government support. This initiative encourages investment in modern, environmentally sustainable buildings through subsidies and tax benefits.

Ongoing urban development policies and infrastructure investments continue supporting market growth. The city maintains policies to attract foreign investment while supporting sustainable tourism development, further boosting demand for real estate.

Housing incentives including mortgage tax breaks and first-time buyer subsidies remain in place, supporting overall market accessibility and demand. Low mortgage rates have also maintained affordability, though any future rate increases could moderate growth.

What demographic trends are influencing Sapporo's housing market?

Aging population, increasing single-person households, and urbanization are reshaping Sapporo's housing demand patterns in 2025.

Single-person households comprise 34% of all Japanese households as of 2023, with Sapporo showing even higher concentrations due to population aging and lifestyle changes. This trend drives demand for smaller living spaces like studio apartments and one-bedroom units, while larger family apartments see decreased demand in suburban areas.

By 2025, one in three Sapporo residents will be senior citizens, increasing healthcare-related housing demand. Properties near medical facilities are becoming increasingly valuable as the aging population requires closer access to healthcare services.

The urbanization trend is evident in central ward population growth, with young professionals and retirees alike preferring city center convenience over suburban living. This demographic shift supports continued price appreciation in central areas while putting pressure on outer ward property values.

It's something we develop in our Japan property pack.

How does new construction activity affect Sapporo's property market?

New construction is creating mixed market dynamics, with increased supply potentially moderating rental growth while supporting overall market development.

From January to May 2024, 7,404 new housing units entered the Sapporo market, a significant increase from previous years. Major projects like Sapporo Towers are adding 394 units by mid-2025, contributing to this supply surge.

While new construction could increase vacancy rates and moderate rental price growth, it also indicates strong developer confidence in market fundamentals. The quality and location of new units tend to command premium prices, supporting overall market value.

Government data shows increased building permits and construction projects, reflecting robust market activity. This construction boom typically leads to temporary oversupply followed by market absorption as demand catches up, particularly in a growing market like Sapporo.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Bamboo Routes - Sapporo Real Estate Market Statistics
  2. Find Hokkaido Agents - Sapporo Land Prices
  3. Bamboo Routes - Sapporo Property Market Trends
  4. Global Property Guide - Japan Property Market Analysis
  5. Find Hokkaido Agents - Average House Cost Sapporo
  6. Bamboo Routes - Hottest Real Estate Areas in Sapporo
  7. Bamboo Routes - Sapporo Real Estate Forecasts
  8. Find Hokkaido Agents - Sapporo Ward Real Estate Prices