We are pleased to announce the publication of “Protecting and Passing Down Wealth Through Real Estate: Inheritance Strategies for Affluent Families.”

Click here to purchase online.

[Introduction]
In 2024, the Nikkei Stock Average hit a record high for the first time in 35 years, while real estate prices in urban areas, particularly in Tokyo, continued to climb. Against this backdrop, the number of so-called “affluent households”—those with assets exceeding 100 million yen—rose steadily, reaching an all-time high of approximately 1.5 million households in 2023 (according to a 2023 survey by Nomura Research Institute). However, the author highlights a challenge in Japan’s progressive inheritance tax system: as asset values increase, so do inheritance tax rates. This often leaves families facing unexpectedly high tax bills, forcing them to part with significant portions of their assets.
As a consultant specializing in tailored wealth management strategies for high-net-worth individuals, the author advocates for strategic, long-term wealth planning through real estate—with a focus on the next 10 to 20 years—as a practical solution to these challenges. One unique advantage of real estate is that its taxable valuation, calculated using criteria such as roadside land prices or fixed asset tax assessments, is often significantly lower than its market value (actual transaction price). By taking advantage of this disparity, the author suggests that individuals can reduce their inheritance tax burden while preserving and passing down stable, income-generating assets to the next generation.
This book offers a clear and comprehensive guide to understanding the basics of Japan’s inheritance tax system and the benefits of using real estate for inheritance planning. It also provides detailed advice on topics such as selecting the right properties, leveraging loans for effective investment, and utilizing asset management corporations.
Whether you’re a high-net-worth individual who thinks it’s “too early” to worry about inheritance planning or someone looking for a way to start the conversation about inheritance with your family, this book is an invaluable resource. Packed with practical strategies, it equips readers with the knowledge needed to protect and pass on their wealth effectively.