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Japan’s centuries-old craftsmanship and artistic traditions continue to inspire people around the world. Yet in today’s global economy, many artisans still struggle to reach international audiences. Sara Doolotbekova, co-founder of BeART World JAPAN, is working to change that.
I am originally from Kyrgyzstan, and through my journey in Japan, I have been working to build a platform that connects global consumers with authentic Japanese art and crafts - while preserving the stories and heritage behind them. Supported by Japan’s Startup Visa program, I am now pursuing a vision to transform how traditional culture is discovered and appreciated worldwide.
My entrepreneurial journey began more than a decade ago, when I first came to Japan to pursue an MBA at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU).
During my time there, I developed a deep appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage. I was fascinated by the dedication of artisans who continue traditions passed down through generations. However, I didn’t immediately start a company after graduation.
I remember thinking that I wasn’t ready yet. Instead, I chose to gain more experience and learn as much as I could. That period of growth eventually brought me back to my original idea - creating a platform that would bring Japanese cultural products to a global audience.
Today, as the co-founder of BeART World JAPAN, my mission is clear: to make authentic Japanese art and crafts easy to buy, but difficult to copy. Through our platform, I want people around the world to rediscover Japanese culture through the stories of creators and their craftsmanship.
Starting a company in Japan as a foreign entrepreneur is not easy. There are many challenges - paperwork, administrative requirements, and language barriers. At first, these can feel overwhelming.
However, the Startup Visa program helped me navigate this process. It gave me time. Time to research, build connections, and understand the local ecosystem.
In Japan, building relationships is essential. Access to the right network is incredibly important. The program provided guidance, support, and a community that helped me move forward.
With support from experts in Sapporo City, even the most difficult parts became manageable.
Today, I am based in Sapporo, where I am a tenant at Sapporo Business VILLAGE - an incubation facility within the Sapporo Industrial Promotion Center. This environment has been incredibly supportive. Through mentoring, networking, and expert guidance, I’ve been able to navigate the early stages of building my company.
Beyond that, I have also benefited from a strong regional network, including STEP, JETRO Startup, JETRO Hokkaido, the Sapporo Chamber of Commerce, and the Hokkaido Yorozu Support Center. For international founders like myself, this kind of ecosystem is invaluable.
Sapporo itself is also inspiring - with its four seasons, welcoming community, and collaborative atmosphere. I am deeply grateful to everyone in Hokkaido who has supported my journey and helped me build meaningful connections in Japan.
After months of preparation, we are now approaching an important milestone; we are about to launch our pilot platform.
This is an exciting moment—a time to test, learn, adapt, and grow. BeART World JAPAN is designed to be more than just an e-commerce platform. It serves as a bridge between artisans and global audiences.
A key part of our concept is storytelling. I believe that behind every product, there is a human story - a history, a workshop, and a philosophy. By sharing these stories, we hope to deepen appreciation for Japanese culture while helping artisans expand globally.
I want BeART World JAPAN to become a global destination for Japanese art and crafts—and a trusted partner for people who value authenticity and cultural heritage.
In a world dominated by mass production, I believe there is a growing demand for meaningful, authentic products. Japanese craftsmanship—known for its precision, beauty, and tradition—is uniquely positioned to meet that demand.
Through our platform, I hope to support artisans, sustain traditional industries, and introduce Japanese culture to new generations around the world.
Another important step in my journey has been transitioning from the Startup Visa to the Business Manager Visa.
When I first arrived in Japan, there were so many things to do - building networks, understanding the market, finding partners, and setting up the company.
Without the Startup Visa, it would have been extremely difficult to do all of this in such a short time. It allowed me to validate my business, build partnerships, and prepare everything needed for the next stage. It truly helped me build the foundation of BeART World JAPAN.
As Japan expands its Startup Visa programs, I believe more international founders will consider starting businesses here.
My message is simple: if you have a clear mission, go for it. But preparation is key.
Do your research. Build local partnerships early. Work closely with the expert organizations available through the Startup Visa program, and most importantly—understand Japanese business culture.
Japan values consistency, trust, and patience. If you embrace these values, Japan offers incredible opportunities.
For me, the Startup Visa became a bridge - and Japan became the place where I could turn my vision into reality.
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