News & Articles

Explore three niche franchise opportunities in Japan—game cafés, pet supply stores, and compact kitchen appliances—with startup costs, market trends, and investor tips.

The Japan Business Manager Visa requires a fixed office space, but you don't necessarily need an expensive traditional lease. Explore creative alternatives including home offices with separate entrances, cheap secondary properties, Airbnb-style businesses, and Startup Visas that delay office requirements.

Japan has announced tightened requirements for the “Business Manager” visa, taking effect October 16, 2025. Key changes include a capital requirement increase to ¥30 million, new language proficiency standards, and stricter rules regarding business plans and office setups.

Japan's government has set ambitious targets to foster its startup ecosystem. By 2027, the aim is to cultivate 10,000 startups and achieve 100 unicorns—startups valued at over one billion USD. To reach these goals, Japan has implemented various incentives and support initiatives, including the introduction of a "startup visa," mentorship programs, and the establishment of incubation centers, particularly in key areas like Shibuya in Tokyo.

Setting up a business in Japan might seem overly complicated, especially if it's your first time. However, Japan has streamlined and structured the process significantly over the past decade and with some guidance, you can establish a business in the Land of the Rising Sun without breaking a sweat. Here is your introductory guide to setting up a business in Japan.

"We will establish special business zones tailored specifically for the asset management business where administrative procedures can be completed solely in English," Kishida said in a speech to investors at the Economic Club of New York.

More than 40% of foreigners in Japan have been there for three years or more, a notable increase over the past 20 years, data shows.