Estonian entrepreneur Raul Allikivi founded GIG-A to modernize banking for foreigners in Japan. He shares his insights on Japan's startup ecosystem, cultural challenges, and the need for trust-based digital services. His vision is to make Japan—and eventually all of Asia—more accessible for migrants through multilingual fintech solutions.

Located in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, the coworking space "COMPASS" functions not only as a workspace but as an incubation facility nurturing the next generation of startups. We spoke with Mr. Fukuoka, the operations manager who is striving to create a new wave of innovation in Kitakyushu, a city known for manufacturing, about the reality of startup support and the potential for regional business creation.

Yaraku, Inc. is supporting multilingual corporate communication with its unique CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) tool that combines machine translation with human expertise. We spoke with CEO Suguru Sakanishi about his entrepreneurial experience in America, his current business and his vision for the future. From a business that began on a drunken impulse to building a diverse global team

Monozukuri Ventures has built an innovative ecosystem connecting Silicon Valley startups with Japanese small and medium manufacturing enterprises. We spoke with the founder about his journey that began with a passion for regional revitalization, the strengths and potential of Japanese manufacturing, and how Japanese companies can compete in the global arena.

At Blackbox, we've previously written about Japan’s Startup Visa, a visa program that smooths the way for foreign entrepreneurs interested in launching a business in Japan. Until recently, this visa was only available in selected cities, and was valid for only an initial six months.

When you think of Shibuya, images of the famous Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue might come to mind. Yet beneath its reputation as a youth culture mecca and tourist destination, Shibuya is rapidly emerging as one of Japan's most dynamic startup ecosystems, with a distinct focus on diversity and global scope.

The Japanese government announced its ‘Startup Development Five-year Plan’ in November 2022. Now-former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida presented the Five-Year Startup Plan as part of his grand design for a new form of capitalism in Japan. While Abenomics led to higher stock prices and corporate profits, it did not translate into higher wages.

An explanation of the innovation ecosystem that is spreading in Tokyo, the premier destination for start-ups.

Yokohama City has built a diverse ecosystem that provides support to both domestic and international entrepreneurs and startups, making it an attractive city, especially for foreign entrepreneurs.

Kyoto’s hidden paths, Zen meditation, tea ceremonies, and traditional crafts all inspire creativity, fostering mindfulness and fueling entrepreneurial growth.

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is renowned for its millennia-long cultural and political significance. The city is home to some of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Ryoan-ji, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, all of which serve as stunning examples of Japan’s architectural and spiritual heritage. However, Kyoto’s appeal extends far beyond its historic temples and shrines.

In Kyoto, a startup company called ”funfo” is providing mobile ordering systems for restaurants. Founders Mr. Qiao and Mr. Wang started the company with four other members during their graduate studies, driven by a desire to support digital transformation in the restaurant industry.

Located about 50 km from Tokyo, Tsukuba City is not exactly famous among tourists. However, it does have a reputation among scientists and researchers, being home to one of Japan's leading universities, the University of Tsukuba, as well as many national and corporate research institutes.

Hamamatsu is the birthplace of globally recognized companies like Yamaha, Kawai, Roland, Suzuki, and Hamamatsu Photonics, the city has left an impressive mark on industries ranging from musical instruments to optics and automobiles.

In a world where over 800 million people face food insecurity and the global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, food production is reaching its limits. Japanese plant-based food company dishwill approaches this crisis with a unique perspective.

Despite its relatively modest size, Hamamatsu is home to several globally leading companies. Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, and Hamamatsu Photonics were all founded here and have grown into internationally recognized brands.

Hiroshima Prefecture is located in the Chugoku region on the western side of Honshu, the main island of Japan, and has prospered as a checkpoint connecting the north and south of the country. Hiroshima City, which is the location of the prefectural government, has a unique history.

Naruhiro Nagao works on regional revitalization through the operation of coworking spaces. This article explores the possibilities of a new business model originating from regional Japan, breaking away from the Tokyo-centric development.

Fukuoka's yatai (food stalls) are iconic symbols of the city's nightlife. Among them, "Chez Remi" stands out amongst the crowd - a French food stall operated by the French owner and chef.

Whether you are relocating your business or establishing a new company, Japan is an exciting place to develop, and a fantastic market to expand into. With the world's third largest GDP, the Japanese economy boasts stability and high growth potential.