Japan MLIT launches new site to improve housing literacy for consumers

On June 3rd, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) announced the launch of a new online portal under its public-private initiative, the “Housing Life Literacy Platform.”

The website consolidates key concepts and essential information related to housing in a single, accessible hub.

Screen grab from the MLIT Housing Literacy home page.  Currently all information is in Japanese which can be Google Translated by inputting the desired URL into the Google Translate web page function.  Alternatively, best to go through the site with your Japanese spouse / significant other and learn together.

The initiative aims to enhance “housing literacy” - the ability to make informed decisions about living arrangements - by deepening public understanding of housing and lifestyle choices.

The platform offers a range of educational content, including explanatory videos on basic housing concepts, illustrated comics highlighting key aspects of housing and daily life, and articles that outline foundational housing knowledge in the context of life planning.

One standout feature is a downloadable card game titled “Housing and Life,” which focuses on common housing-related issues and their solutions.

Screen grab from the home page section highlighting the Housing and Life card game download section.  Found on the top page of the Housing Literacy website.

Designed to be printed and played offline, the game is intended to make learning about housing more engaging and interactive.

The ministry plans to continue updating and expanding the content to further support the public in building their housing literacy.

Further reading:

MLIT Housing Literacy Portal (Japanese only)