Hokkaido Minpaku Renovation Guide｜Costs, Design Tips & Success Factors
2025.05.22
As inbound tourism continues to recover, Hokkaido’s popular resort areas—such as Furano, Biei, Niseko, and Kutchan—are attracting attention from investors interested in turning vacant homes, traditional houses, and holiday villas into vacation rentals.
However, many owners face challenges when it comes to interior renovation and remodeling.
Questions like “What kind of renovations are suitable for minpaku?” or “How much will it cost to add bedrooms or water facilities?” are common concerns among property owners.
In a vacation rental, the interior is more than just aesthetics—it directly impacts profitability, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
Particularly, water-related areas such as bedrooms, toilets, bathrooms, and kitchens are closely linked to guest reviews and even requirements for obtaining a minpaku or hotel business license.
Accurate planning and execution from the early stages are essential.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to interior remodeling for minpaku, covering its importance, key renovation checkpoints, typical cost ranges for bedrooms and water facilities, contractor selection tips, and successful examples tailored to different regions of Hokkaido.
Based on the experience of JANKEN—who has supported over 500 vacation rental properties—we’ll show you how to optimize your renovation strategy and build a successful minpaku operation in Hokkaido.
Contents
- 1 Interior Renovation Is Key to Minpaku Success in Hokkaido
- 2 Key Points and Cost Estimates for Minpaku Interior Renovation
- 3 How to Choose the Right Interior Contractor for Your Minpaku Renovation
- 4 JANKEN: Your One-Stop Solution for Minpaku Renovation in Hokkaido
- 5 Summary｜Final Checklist for Vacation Rental Renovations in Hokkaido
Interior Renovation Is Key to Minpaku Success in Hokkaido
In popular tourist destinations such as Furano, Biei, Niseko, and Kutchan, the quality of interior renovation directly affects the profitability of vacation rental properties.
Yet many owners underestimate the importance of proper renovation and interior upgrades.
The comfort and functionality of key areas like bedrooms and water facilities greatly influence guest satisfaction and reviews—factors that directly impact return rates and overall earnings.
Moreover, visually appealing interior design enhances shareability on social media, which helps boost exposure and booking conversions.
Optimized layout and equipment selection also improve cleaning efficiency and reduce operating costs, leading to long-term savings.
In addition, when applying for licenses under the Hotel Business Act or Minpaku (Private Lodging) Law, compliance often requires specific interior specifications and layouts.
In short, interior design in minpaku is not just decoration—it’s a core investment in guest appeal, profitability, operational efficiency, and legal compliance.
New to vacation rental investment? Learn how to start your own minpaku business step by step.
Key Points and Cost Estimates for Minpaku Interior Renovation
Interior remodeling in vacation rentals is more than just aesthetic improvement—it’s a strategic element tied to guest experience, review ratings, and revenue performance.
Particularly, the design and specifications of essential spaces such as bedrooms and water facilities have a significant impact on the overall quality of the stay, and therefore on your booking rate and occupancy.
In the following sections, we’ll break down key renovation checkpoints and provide general cost estimates for each area—valuable for your investment planning and construction decisions.
Renovating Bedrooms in Minpaku｜How to Maximize Guest Satisfaction and Profitability
Renovating the bedroom in a vacation rental is not just about offering a place to sleep—it’s a critical investment that directly affects profitability and guest satisfaction.
In regions like Hokkaido, where long-term stays and family travelers are common, bedroom layout and flexibility can make or break your review ratings.
First and foremost, ensure a comfortable sleep environment.
In addition to quality beds and layout, attention should be paid to air conditioning, soundproofing, and blackout curtains. Even minor discomforts—such as noise or excessive light—can lower guest satisfaction significantly.
Next, design the room to accommodate different guest profiles, including families and groups.
Use solutions like sliding doors, movable partitions, and additional bedding storage to enable flexible sleeping arrangements.
Storage space is also key to convenience. Providing closets, open shelves, or dedicated luggage space improves overall usability and guest experience.
In addition, a well-designed room with curated lighting, wallpaper, and coordinated décor increases your photo appeal on booking sites, leading to more clicks and higher conversion rates.
Ultimately, bedroom renovation is not a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a strategic investment in your minpaku’s competitiveness. Thoughtful layout and amenities help you stand out from the crowd and maximize returns.
Why does interior design matter in minpaku operations? Discover tips for better guest experience and higher reviews.
Bedroom Renovation Cost Estimates (Based on a 6-Tatami Room) & Key Considerations
| Work Item | Example Details | Estimated Cost (incl. tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Wallpaper Replacement | Standard vinyl wallpaper or accent wall | ¥50,000–¥70,000 |
| Flooring (Wood) | Laminate or water-resistant wood flooring | ¥100,000–¥200,000 |
| Flooring (Carpet) | Soundproof or thermal carpet installation | ¥100,000–¥300,000 |
| Door Replacement | Sliding or hinged doors, optional locks | ¥100,000–¥150,000 |
| Lighting Fixtures | Downlights, ambient lighting, dimmable ceiling lamps | ¥30,000–¥80,000 |
| Storage Installation | Closet or movable rack | ¥50,000–¥200,000 |
| Window Treatments | Blackout curtains or blinds | ¥30,000–¥100,000 |
| Sound & Insulation | Partition enhancement, acoustic boards | ¥100,000–¥250,000 (varies) |
| Electrical Work | Extra outlets, USB ports near bed | ¥10,000–¥30,000 per unit |
| Design Coordination | Interior styling by a professional designer | ¥50,000–¥150,000 (optional) |
The actual cost may vary depending on the property condition, chosen materials, and local labor rates.
Especially with older buildings, underfloor repair, insulation upgrades, or structural reinforcement may be required.
For minpaku properties, it’s important to select materials that are durable, easy to clean, and photo-friendly to maximize ROI and reduce maintenance costs in the long term.
Boost Guest Satisfaction with Added Bathrooms & Kitchens｜Costs and Key Considerations
For vacation rentals, enhancing water-related facilities is one of the most effective ways to improve guest satisfaction and secure higher review scores.
In Hokkaido—especially in family- and group-oriented markets like Furano and Niseko—insufficient bathrooms or outdated kitchen facilities often result in negative feedback, directly affecting bookings and repeat stays.
Even in properties where only one water facility exists, adding a toilet, shower room, or kitchenette can significantly improve the comfort level and usability for guests.
Below is a general cost estimate for installing water facilities in minpaku properties:
| Facility Type | Description | Cost Estimate (incl. tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Toilet Installation | Western-style toilet with sink and ventilation | ¥400,000 – ¥1,000,000 |
| Bathroom/Shower Room Installation | Unit bath or shower-only enclosure | ¥750,000 – ¥2,500,000 |
| Kitchen or Kitchenette | Compact or full-scale kitchen | from ¥800,000 |
| 4-Point Water Set (House Scale) | Toilet, bath, wash basin, and kitchen combined | ¥1,200,000 – ¥2,000,000 |
Costs vary depending on plumbing access, floor level, building type, and material grade.
Additional expenses (¥100,000–¥300,000) may occur if underfloor piping, drainage work, or wall penetration is needed.
Beyond convenience, these upgrades improve review scores for cleanliness and functionality, helping increase your rental’s occupancy rate, nightly rate, and ROI.
Other Key Interior Elements to Check for Successful Minpaku Operations
In addition to bedrooms and bathrooms, several often-overlooked interior features can significantly impact guest satisfaction and operational efficiency in vacation rentals.
Proper attention to these elements not only improves the quality of the guest experience, but also helps your property stand out from competitors and earn better reviews.
Living & Dining Area: Comfort and Flow Matter
As guests spend most of their time in the shared space, the layout of sofas, tables, lighting, and walkways plays a key role.
Poor arrangement may lead to stress and dissatisfaction, while thoughtful design increases comfort.
| Item | Living & Dining Setup |
| Example Details | Sofa, lighting, table, layout adjustments |
| Estimated Cost (JPY) | 150,000–400,000 yen |
Entrance: First Impressions Count
The entrance sets the tone for the entire stay.
A well-lit, clean, and thoughtfully arranged entryway—with clear signage, shoe storage, and a tidy floor—creates trust and comfort from the start.
| Item | Entrance Area Improvement |
| Example Details | Lighting, shoe storage, flooring updates, signage |
| Estimated Cost (JPY) | 50,000–200,000 yen |
Wi-Fi & Internet Setup: A Non-Negotiable Essential
For international travelers, stable, fast Wi-Fi is critical.
Make setup easy to use (e.g., QR code login), and ensure consistent connectivity throughout the property.
| Item | Wi-Fi Installation |
| Example Details | Router, extender, contract, wiring |
| Estimated Cost (JPY) | 10,000–50,000 yen + monthly fee |
Furniture & Appliances: Usability and Durability
Choose durable and user-friendly appliances—especially for frequently used items like fridges, microwaves, and washing machines.
Opt for commercial-grade or easy-maintenance models suited for short-term rentals.
| Item | Furniture & Appliance Installation |
| Example Details | Refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, beds, etc. |
| Estimated Cost (JPY) | 300,000–700,000 yen (varies by guest capacity) |
Contactless Check-In: Efficiency & Safety
Smart locks or keypads enable check-in without staff, improving convenience and security for both guests and hosts.
It’s now a standard in modern vacation rental operations.
| Item | Contactless Check-In Equipment |
| Example Details | Smart lock, keypad lock |
| Estimated Cost (JPY) | 20,000–100,000 yen per door |
How to Choose the Right Interior Contractor for Your Minpaku Renovation
Choosing the right contractor is essential to the success of any vacation rental renovation.
Many owners mistakenly focus only on low price estimates or short construction timelines.
As a result, they often face issues such as poor finish quality, non-compliance with local laws, or layouts that fail to support smooth operation—all of which may lead to rework, added costs, or operational problems.
Unlike ordinary renovations, minpaku remodeling requires specialized knowledge, including:
- ・Fire safety layout
- ・Guest flow and check-in route design
- ・Easy-to-clean surfaces and durable materials
- ・Compliance with the Hotel Business Act or Minpaku Law
In this section, we’ll explore common pitfalls in contractor selection and offer tips for identifying reliable professionals with actual minpaku experience.
Don’t Just Look at Price – Look for Practical Expertise and Local Knowledge
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote—but this often leads to high-risk outcomes.
If a contractor lacks knowledge of the fire code or licensing requirements, or overlooks important flow considerations like cleaning routes or check-in logistics, it can lead to delays, violations, or additional renovation work post-launch.
In Hokkaido especially, contractors must understand:
- ・Cold-climate insulation and anti-freeze design
- ・Snow load considerations
- ・Pipe insulation and weatherproofing techniques
A contractor unfamiliar with Hokkaido’s climate may overlook these, resulting in winter malfunctions and higher maintenance costs.
Additionally, in tourist hubs like Furano and Niseko, it’s essential to factor in:
- ・Storage design for families and long stays
- ・Stylish interiors that photograph well for online listings
- ・Multilingual signage or check-in tools for inbound guests
A contractor with deep minpaku experience will offer:
- ・Layouts that enhance profitability and guest satisfaction
- ・Renovation plans that meet licensing and fire safety requirements
- ・Workflow design that simplifies cleaning and daily operations
To build a successful minpaku in Hokkaido, choose a partner who understands the climate, tourism dynamics, and real operational needs of vacation rentals.
JANKEN: Your One-Stop Solution for Minpaku Renovation in Hokkaido
To succeed in vacation rental renovation, you need more than just design and construction—you need a comprehensive strategy that also considers operations, legal compliance, and long-term profitability.
JANKEN has delivered over 500 successful vacation rental projects across Furano, Biei, Niseko, and Kutchan, offering complete, minpaku-specific support.
JANKEN’s strength lies in its:
- ・One-stop service model: from planning, design, construction, and operations to exit strategy
- ・Interior solutions tailored to guest needs, reviews, and ROI
- ・Expertise in legal frameworks like the Hotel Business Act, Minpaku Law, and Fire Safety Standards
- ・Operational flow planning, including cleaning, maintenance, and contactless check-in
- ・Support for vacant homes and old houses, including purchase, renovation, and resale projects
What sets JANKEN apart is its strong local network across Hokkaido:
- ・Partnerships with contractors, designers, real estate firms, and architects familiar with local needs
- ・Smooth coordination with local authorities and infrastructure companies for license applications and zoning changes
- ・Collaboration with brokers, judicial scriveners, and tax advisors for seamless support from purchase to sale
Whether you’re living abroad or investing remotely, JANKEN ensures end-to-end support with complete peace of mind.
With extensive experience in Hokkaido’s resort areas—including Furano, Biei, Niseko, and Kutchan—JANKEN understands the region’s infrastructure, legal conditions, and tourism demand.
Explore real-life renovation cases and floor plans of successful vacation rentals in Hokkaido.
Want to unlock your property’s full potential as a profitable vacation rental? Let JANKEN be your trusted partner.
Free Consultation & Estimate
If you’re planning a renovation tailored to the vacation rental market, take advantage of JANKEN’s free consultation service.
Whether you’re asking:
- ・“Where should I start with interior design for a minpaku?”
- ・“What do I need to renovate to get a hotel license?”
- ・“How do I maximize long-term returns with a solid renovation strategy?”
Our experienced team—backed by 500+ successful projects—will walk you through it step by step.
JANKEN supports property owners in Furano, Biei, Niseko, and Kutchan with everything from planning to operation. Let us help you succeed in Hokkaido.
Summary｜Final Checklist for Vacation Rental Renovations in Hokkaido
To run a successful vacation rental in Hokkaido, the quality and strategic direction of your interior renovation are just as important as location or property selection.
In particular, the design and installation of bedrooms and water facilities have a direct impact on guest satisfaction, review scores, and repeat bookings—making them a vital investment for profitability.
To avoid costly mistakes, it is essential to work with contractors who not only understand renovation work but also have a deep grasp of Hokkaido’s climate, local regulations, and minpaku operations.
If you’re considering an interior renovation or remodeling for a vacation rental in Hokkaido, JANKEN is your trusted partner.
With tailored planning, legal insight, and operational know-how, we’ll support your vision and help turn your property into a high-performing minpaku business.
