Not every property can legally operate as a minpaku. Condominium by-laws, zoning regulations, and local municipal rules can all block a licence before you even apply. A building may look perfect from the outside but be off-limits under its management association rules. This check must happen before purchase if you're still shopping, or before any application if you already own.

✓ BESSO TO GO handles this check as step one — included in onboarding.

Most foreign owners opt for the standard Minpaku notification route (民泊届出), which caps annual operation at 180 days but has lower barriers to entry. If your goals require year-round operation, a Simple Lodging (簡易宿所) or Ryokan licence may be more appropriate — though these involve fire inspections, facility upgrades, and a licensed manager on record.

✓ BESSO TO GO advises you on the right route for your property and goals.

The standard Minpaku application requires: proof of property ownership or lease rights, floor plan of the dwelling, confirmation from the building management association (for condos), sanitation and fire safety declarations, and a business management plan. All documents must be submitted in Japanese — a significant barrier for overseas owners.

✓ BESSO TO GO prepares and translates all documentation on your behalf.

Japan's Minpaku Law mandates specific fire safety equipment: smoke detectors in all rooms, fire extinguishers on each floor, an emergency evacuation plan displayed in the property, and in some cases fire-resistant construction upgrades. A licensed inspector must verify compliance before your application can proceed.

✓ BESSO TO GO coordinates the inspection and any required upgrades.

Under the Minpaku Law, the notification is submitted to the prefectural governor's office (都道府県知事) of the property's location. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks. Some municipalities have additional local ordinances that further restrict operating days or require supplementary documentation — Tokyo's 23 wards each have their own rules on top of the national framework.

✓ BESSO TO GO submits the filing and liaises directly with the relevant authority.

The Minpaku Law requires that if the owner is not residing within the same building, a licensed 住宅宿泊管理業者 (residential accommodation manager) must be appointed and registered. This manager is legally responsible for guest safety, neighbourhood relations, and regulatory compliance. Foreign owners almost always require this — and the manager must hold a government-issued licence.

✓ BESSO TO GO acts as your licensed manager — included in our service.

Once your notification number is issued, you're legally authorised to operate. From here, BESSO TO GO sets up your listings on Airbnb, Booking.com, and other platforms, handles all guest communication in English and Japanese, and manages day-to-day operations — so you can earn from Japan without setting foot in the country.

✓ Full operations management included in the BESSO TO GO service.