This article explores the growing significance of stablecoins—cryptocurrencies pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen—in both the United States and Japan. While adoption in the U.S. has surged, with new legislation like the GENIUS Act supporting the ecosystem, Japan has taken a regulatory leadership role, having first defined crypto assets in 2017. The article reviews Japan’s legal framework under the Payment Services Act (PSA) and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA), recent amendments, and the emergence of local stablecoin initiatives. It also highlights future prospects for stablecoin-based payments.

Ryo Asai’s new novel *In the Mega-Church* explores Japan’s fan economy and idol culture, tracing its evolution from Johnny’s boy bands and AKB48’s participatory model to globalized, tech-driven fandoms. Today, digital platforms, audition documentaries, and virtual performances reshape how fans connect with idols. Startups are innovating in fan engagement, live interaction, and merchandise using data and blockchain, though issues like scandals and over-commercialization remain. Japan’s idol industry highlights the power of community-driven content. The article also announces a February 2026 Shibuya program for creative tech startups, featuring exhibitions, networking, and collaboration with DIG SHIBUYA.

Japan has played a pioneering role in regulating cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. While stablecoins like USDT and USDC reach over $235 billion globally, Japan is still in early adoption stages. The country first legally defined crypto assets in 2017 under the Payment Services Act (PSA). A 2023 amendment introduced the first stablecoin regulations, marking a key milestone. Alongside, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) governs security tokens and blockchain-based financial products. With cashless payments now at 42.8%, experts see stablecoins as the next step in Japan’s digital payment evolution, supported by progressive legal and technological frameworks.

Japan’s AI journey spans decades, from early machine translation and the 1980s Fifth Generation Computer Project to today’s generative AI startups. Despite less global visibility, Japan has steadily advanced with a focus on language, logic, and practical applications. Companies like Sakana AI, Preferred Networks, ABEJA, and Jitera are leading efforts in foundation models, robotics, business solutions, and low-code platforms. Challenges include limited Japanese training data, but this also creates opportunities for specialization. Backed by partnerships with corporations, universities, and global investors, Japan’s AI ecosystem is growing and positioning itself as a unique, collaborative force in the global AI landscape.

Japan’s food delivery culture, rooted in Edo-period demae, has evolved from community-based hospitality to a highly digitalized ecosystem. The rise of platforms like Uber Eats and Demaekan, accelerated by COVID-19, transformed the market. Today, aggregators, logistics firms, and autonomous delivery technologies reshape operations, making Japan a global testbed for delivery innovation.

Japan’s restaurant industry is evolving with fast casual dining and restaurant SaaS. Brands like Crisp Salad Works and UMAMI BURGER blend tech and quality meals. Startups such as Dinii, Toreta, and TableCheck offer digital tools for orders, payments, and reservations—reshaping the food service experience with efficiency and personalization.