Events nurture the city. Kyoto real estate is the fruit of that.
Events → People gather → People stay → Increased real estate demand
I feel that this cycle is spinning quite well in Kyoto.
(Note: I am not a real estate agent. I just think so after listening to them.)
This is proof that the city's "brand value" is gradually accumulating.
Whether you come because you are drawn to the ancient capital, want to be a history buff,
seek delicious water, enjoy festivals,
or experience a "global event."
That is what Kyoto is.
One of the symbols of this is the "MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN (MAJ)."
It is hosted by five major organizations, including the Recording Industry Association of Japan and the Federation of Music Producers Japan.
I watched it live on NHK, and
it was funny how nervous the host, Masaki Suda, was.
The concept is "Connecting with the world, lighting up the future of music."
The first awards ceremony was held at the ROHM Theatre Kyoto on May 21-22, 2025, and if it is held again next year, I can rush over from home (lol)!
The stage featured AI, Hikaru Utada, Awich, Creepy Nuts, Chanmina, Fujii Kaze, Mrs. GREEN APPLE, YOASOBI, Eikichi Yazawa...
The opening was a remix of YMO's "Rydeen." (← This was good)
It was truly an all-out effort by the Japanese music scene.
However, it seems there were many issues due to it being the first time.
To put it in investor terms, "The buzz is big, but it will take time for the brand to take root."
The Kyoto Prize — A stage that honors global knowledge
Personally, I think this plays a role in enhancing Kyoto's brand value.
The Kyoto Prize already boasts a history of nearly 40 years.
Founded by Kazuo Inamori in 1984, it honors global achievements in three fields: "Advanced Technology," "Basic Sciences," and "Arts and Philosophy." It is said to be comparable to the Nobel Prize, and has been awarded to leading AI researchers and masters of contemporary art.
Every November, the awards ceremony in Kyoto is not flashy but serene, yet its brand as a place where global knowledge gathers remains unshakable.
From an investor's perspective, this is an event that has solidified the international reputation of"Kyoto = City of Knowledge."
IVS — The summer festival for startups
IVS (Infinity Ventures Summit) began in 2007.
Since 2022, it has become a staple event in Kyoto.
During the day, there are serious pitches by investors and entrepreneurs.
At night, there are scenes of people talking all night long in nearby izakayas or along the Kamo River.
For the younger generation of entrepreneurs and engineers, it has become a "festival-like place of enthusiasm." I myself have been participating for about three years now. It's like, just go and soak up the aura of the young people.
In other words,"Kyoto = The Holy Land for Startups"—a new brand is beginning to sprout.
How it affects the real estate market
What is noteworthy is that these events do not end with short-term excitement, but are spreading to the city's demand structure.
2025 Land Price Publication: Ukyo Ward commercial land +6.02%, residential land +1.83%.
Condominiums in the Rakuchu area: Properties along the Gion Festival route and the Kamo River are reaching "unprecedented price levels" due to demand from wealthy overseas individuals.
Rental demand: The average rent in Kyoto Prefecture is growing faster than the national average. Airbnb-style stays and satellite offices are also on an upward trend.
It is natural for tourists to look for hotels.
However, it is a noteworthy shift that researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors are starting to think, "I want to have a base in Kyoto."
It is not temporary tourist demand, but the influx of international talent that creates long-term stays and base establishment, which is directly linked to housing and office demand.
MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN is still in the trial-and-error stage.
But the Kyoto Prize and IVS have already taken root as "brand assets of the city."
As these accumulate, Kyoto is increasing the reasons to"live," "work," and "invest" there.
In other words, it is not just the location and scenery that underpin Kyoto's real estate.
It is the "influx of international people and capital" fostered through events that is keeping the Kyoto market resilient.
I have been thinking about these things regarding Kyoto real estate for quite some time, but I have finally been able to put them into words. The more I learn, the stronger the "Kyoto brand" seems to be.