Okinawa
Okinawa
A subtropical testbed for real-world innovation, anchored by OIST research and positioned as a gateway between Japan and Asia.
- Support for founders
- Support for investors
Located in the southwestern part of Japan, Okinawa Prefecture is widely known for its subtropical natural environment and distinctive cultural heritage. While the region is often associated with tourism, Okinawa has been advancing initiatives in recent years to foster innovation and create new industries through startup and entrepreneurship support. Government institutions, universities, financial institutions, support organizations, and private companies collaborate to build a region-wide environment that supports the emergence of new startups and connects them with entrepreneurs and investors both within Japan and internationally.
Strengths
Testbed for real-world innovation
Okinawa offers a unique environment where startups can validate new technologies and services in real-world settings. Through the "Testbed Island Okinawa" initiative, companies receive local coordination and consultation support for proof-of-concept trials. The region's compact geography makes stakeholder alignment fast and pilot rollout efficient.
World-class research foundation (OIST)
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is an international graduate university drawing researchers from around the world, with a distinctive interdisciplinary approach. Collaboration between OIST research and local startups creates real opportunities to translate advanced science into new businesses — deep tech, biotech, materials, and beyond.
Gateway between Japan and Asia
Historically a hub of trade during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, Okinawa sits closer to Taiwan and Southeast Asia than mainland Japan. For international startups it functions as a natural entry point into the Japanese market while keeping proximity to Asian markets — with business, cultural, and academic exchange still active today.
Things to see
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Located inside Ocean Expo Park in Motobu, Churaumi is one of Japan's most iconic attractions. Its massive "Kuroshio Sea" tank — one of the largest in the world — features whale sharks and manta rays gliding through a reconstruction of the coral reef biodiversity surrounding Okinawa.
Shuri Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle stands as the powerful symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom — an independent maritime kingdom that flourished through trade with China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Its distinctive red architecture reflects a unique cultural heritage; reconstruction after the 2019 fire is underway.
JUNGLIA OKINAWA
An immersive nature-themed entertainment park in northern Okinawa, JUNGLIA offers a new kind of tourism experience built around "excitement, luxury, and freedom" — jungle attractions, local-ingredient cuisine, and a spa with panoramic views. Committed to eco-friendly development and a sustainable, community-oriented model.