Minpaku License Comparison
Shinpou vs Ryokan
To operate a minpaku in Osaka, you need either Shinpou (Vacation Rental Act) or Ryokan License. Each differs significantly in operating days, application difficulty, and profitability. Choose based on your property type and investment goals.
※ Tokku Minpaku new applications are suspended in Osaka City. This site focuses on the two remaining frameworks.
| Item | Shinpou (Vacation Rental Act) | Ryokan License (Kani-shukusho) |
|---|---|---|
| Law | Vacation Rental Act | Ryokan License Act |
| Operating Days | Up to 180 days/year | No limit (year-round) |
| Min. Stay | No minimum (1 night OK) | No minimum (1 night OK) |
| Coverage Area | Nationwide (with local restrictions) | Nationwide (zoning restrictions apply) |
| Difficulty | ★☆☆ | ★★★ |
| Profit Potential | Medium (180-day cap) | Highest (year-round, any stay length) |
Shinpou (Vacation Rental Act)
- ✓Notification-based (easier to start)
- ✓1-night stays OK (business travelers welcome)
- ✓Nationwide (not limited to special zones)
- ×180-day annual operating cap
- ×Local ordinances often add further restrictions
- ×Slower investment payback due to 180-day limit
Ryokan License (Kani-shukusho)
- ✓No annual operating day limit
- ✓1-night short stays OK
- ✓Hotel-level credibility
- ×Strict building code, fire, and ordinance requirements
- ×Often requires major renovation; high initial cost
- ×6 months to 1 year for approval in many cases
📚 Reference: About Tokku Minpaku (New applications suspended in Osaka City)
Tokku Minpaku is a vacation rental framework under the National Strategic Special Zones Act. Since 2016, Osaka City has been designated, and many properties were certified with year-round operation and a 2-night minimum stay.
However, due to neighborhood disputes and impact on the living environment, Osaka City has suspended new applications (check the Osaka City website for the latest status).
This portal focuses on the two frameworks currently available for new applications: Shinpou (Vacation Rental Act) and Ryokan License. For transfers of properties already certified under Tokku Minpaku, please contact us via LINE.
⚠️ Common Caveats
- ・Property owner's permission required (rental contracts must explicitly allow minpaku)
- ・Condominium bylaws often prohibit minpaku
- ・Fire equipment required (alarm, evacuation lights). Initial cost ¥hundreds of thousands+
Need help choosing the right license?
As an Osaka real estate broker, we'll recommend the best license for your property, investment size, and goals. License application supported via our partner administrative scrivener.