We have known Michael and worked with him for over 15 years. During that time, he has supported us in acquiring three properties in Kabayama and, more recently, a property in Yu no Sato. He is also currently managing a property for us in Izumikyo, and over the years has helped us assess numerous other opportunities.

Michael has a unique depth of knowledge and experience in the Niseko area, as well as excellent access to local owners and sellers. What we have particularly valued is his willingness to give us a genuinely unbiased opinion, even when his advice may be contrary to his own commercial interests.

He is extremely reliable, accurate and trustworthy, and has always made the process of acquiring property in Hokkaido remarkably seamless. He is also simply a pleasure to work with.

We would have no hesitation in recommending Michael to anyone considering investing in property in Hokkaido.

Our family had the great fortune of working with Michael throughout our real-estate journey in Niseko. In 2014, he represented us when we were looking for a larger, elevated block across the Shiribetsu River, away from the established resort areas. Although few buyers were interested in that side of the valley at the time, Michael, a long-time resident, understood exactly what we wanted. Through his connections, he found an ideal five-acre property the day before it came to market.

After we built our house, we frequently relied on Michael for project management, exterior staining, road and driveway work, winterisation and property management. His knowledge and extensive network of contacts were invaluable.

When we had to sell after leaving Asia in 2025, Michael again represented us. He did a fabulous job marketing the house and, despite its unusual location, sold it within a few months.

Michael brings an exceptional combination of experience and local knowledge. He is fluent in Japanese, has lived in Niseko for decades, understands the real-estate markets throughout Niseko and the surrounding areas, and has extensive experience in brokerage, property management and real-estate consulting.

Most importantly, Michael is a pleasure to work with: professional, friendly, helpful and resourceful, with grounded recommendations and none of the hype so typical of many real-estate agencies in the area. There is nobody in the area quite like him.

Michael was the listing agent for my cabin in Niseko, and I would 100% recommend him and the team at Yamazanmai. He is incredibly knowledgeable about the area and provided a thorough, meticulous overview of the property from day one. What I appreciated most was his genuine personality, professionalism, and attention to detail. As our property manager, he proactively identified the necessary renovations to restore our older cabin, and handled all the practical details—like setting up our seasonal snow clearing service—ensuring a smooth and worry-free move-in. Above all, Michael is completely trustworthy—which I believe is the highest compliment you can give a real estate agent.

Michael and his team helped us buy our first home in Japan with complete confidence. They were always available for our many questions and walked us through every step of the process using clearly translated documents and honest advice. Their after-sale services have also been fantastic, helping us prepare the home for the coming ski season. We highly recommend Yamazanmai for their personal approach and professional service.

Yamazanmai listed my Niseko house in January 2026 and had it contracted and settled within six months. Michael’s 20+ years of real estate experience in Niseko and attention to detail were invaluable in guiding the first-time buyers through the purchase process and helping them understanding the rules regarding renovations. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Yamazanmai to anyone looking to buy, invest in, or sell property in Japan.