Tokugawa Village Compound in Mejiro
For more than 70 years, Sun Realty & Insurance Corporation has served as a cornerstone of luxury expatriate housing in Tokyo, supporting the city’s international community with sincerity and sophistication. While the company was founded in 1954 by Shizuko Tani to address a postwar shortage of Western-style homes, today Sun Realty stands as a premier provider of high-end real estate solutions for global professionals.
“At the time, most houses had tatami flooring and no hot water or air conditioning,” recalls Sun Realty & Insurance Corporation President Satoshi Ihara. “Ms. Tani recognized that foreign residents needed homes that reflected their lifestyles. Her vision shaped the foundation of modern expatriate housing in Tokyo.”
Tradition of Western-Style Excellence
From the very beginning, Sun Realty established a strategic partnership with Homat Homes, Ltd. to manage leasing and maintenance for properties specifically designed for international residents. Early clients, including US military personnel and General Headquarters officers, required amenities that were rare in Japan at the time. By immediately installing essential Western comforts—such as hot water boilers, air conditioners, mosquito screens and flush toilets—the company earned an enduring reputation for reliability and cultural understanding.
Philosophy of Trust and Sincerity
As a fluent English speaker and global thinker, Tani led the company until the age of 94, instilling a simple but powerful value: trust is everything. “She used to say, ‘It takes a long, hard way to gain trust, but you can lose it in one second,’ ” Ihara shares. “That philosophy still defines who we are.”
This longevity is built on a commitment to service beyond profit. “Our goal is not simply to pursue profit,” Ihara says, “but to bring happiness and comfort to our clients. When we act with sincerity, appreciation naturally follows.” This ethos has fostered deep loyalty, with approximately 70 percent of new buyers arriving through personal referrals.
Premium Amenities for Modern International Lifestyles
As the exclusive manager of the Homat brand, Sun Realty offers a distinct advantage in Tokyo’s competitive market, granting clients priority access to premium listings before they reach the open market. While early expatriates prioritized basic utilities, today’s families seek spacious, contemporary living environments.
To meet these evolving standards, the company adapts its properties to blend international comfort with Japanese design sensibility. Sun Realty’s benchmark luxury expatriate housing in Tokyo features:
- Expansive Floor Plans: Residences averaging 200 square meters—more than double the size of a typical Tokyo apartment.
- Family-Oriented Layouts: Units typically designed with three or more bedrooms to accommodate modern family needs.
- Western-Style Upgrades: Fully renovated interiors including open kitchens and imported American or European appliances for elegance and practicality.
- Essential Comforts: At least two full bathrooms and expanded living areas.
Comprehensive Luxury Real Estate Solutions
While widely recognized for the iconic Homat properties, Sun Realty also serves as a full-service luxury agency. The firm showcases the finest homes and apartments across the city, tailoring each selection to individual needs with precision and discretion.
Deep Bond with the Community
Sun Realty’s connection with the Tokyo American Club stretches back more than half a century. Tani was a longtime member, and Homat Homes founder Jiro Matsumura served as the Club’s permanent honorary chairman. “For many years, Ms. Tani donated annually to the Club,” Ihara recalls. “That tradition reflects our shared values of trust, community, and contribution”.
Today, the company continues that mission by helping newcomers feel at home in Japan. “Our role is to make life in Tokyo seamless,” Ihara explains. “We’re not just finding houses—we’re creating comfort, connection, and belonging”.
Enduring Spirit of Hospitality
At the heart of Sun Realty lies a clear corporate philosophy: “To enhance the lives and property values of our customers and landlords through high-quality service and sincere support, while providing memorable living experiences in Japan”.
“Even after seventy years, our purpose hasn’t changed,” Ihara reflects. “We’re here to be a bridge between people and Tokyo—to welcome the world with warmth and integrity”.
Begin Your Journey in Tokyo
As Sun Realty celebrates its 70th anniversary, its light shines as brightly as ever. Whether seeking a historic Homat residence or a modern luxury apartment, the company remains an enduring symbol of excellence in the art of making Tokyo feel like home.
To view exclusive listings and learn more about their services, please visit the Sun Realty website.
