From the desk

日本からの実践的な洞察。

Business, investment and relocation guidance grounded in real work on the ground.

Investors / Business · 3 Feb 2026

Ultimate Guide to Owning A Franchise in Japan (from Visas to Company Culture)

Practical guide to starting a franchise in Japan: updated Business Manager visa rules, company setup (KK/GK), licenses, office, and cultural best practices.

Read article →
Jobs / Relocation · 20 Jan 2026

How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner: 2026 Approval Checklist

Renting in Japan as a foreigner demands preparation: know upfront costs, guarantor rules, required documents, and screening steps for a smooth approval.

Read article →
Investors / Business · 18 Jan 2026

Forget 7-Eleven: These 3 Niche Franchises Are Taking Over Japan

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

Read article →
Jobs / Relocation · 6 Jan 2026

7 Jobs in Japan That Don’t Require Japanese (Salaries + Application Links)

Looking for work in Japan without Japanese language skills? This guide covers 7 job opportunities across tech, education, hospitality, and more, with salaries ranging from ¥250,000/month to ¥8,500,000/year, plus visa sponsorship details and application links.

Read article →
Jobs / Relocation · 2 Jan 2026

Tokyo vs. Osaka vs. Fukuoka: The Ultimate Relocation Matrix for Expats

Choosing between Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka? This comprehensive guide compares rent costs, job markets, expat support, and lifestyle factors to help you make the right relocation decision.

Read article →
General · 2 Jan 2026

3 Emerging Japanese Investment Sectors Beyond Traditional Tech

Japan’s economy is evolving beyond traditional tech. Discover three high-growth investment sectors—medical devices, digital infrastructure, and NFT/DeFi—reshaping the market.

Read article →
General · 28 Nov 2025

Do You Really Need to Rent an Office for a Japan Business Manager Visa?

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.

Read article →
General · 19 Nov 2025

Japan to Revise Ecotourism Policy

Japan’s Environment Ministry has proposed the first revision to its ecotourism policy since 2008 to address the ecological impact of surging inbound tourism. The draft emphasizes balancing conservation with visitor experiences through continuous monitoring, community-consulted usage rules, and enhanced guide training.

Read article →
General · 19 Nov 2025

Japan Updates Business Manager Visa Criteria

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.

Read article →