When starting or expanding a business in Japan, it is crucial to understand and obtain relevant special industry licenses. As a highly regulated market, Japan has implemented a strict licensing system for many industries. This is not only a legal requirement, but also an important means to ensure market order and protect consumer rights. For entrepreneurs who are interested in doing business in Japan, a deep understanding of these licensing requirements can not only avoid potential legal risks, but also lay a solid foundation for the long-term development of enterprises in Japan.
Japan’s special industry licensing system covers a wide range of areas, from catering and healthcare to financial services, construction and entertainment. The purpose of this system is to ensure that operators in various industries have the necessary qualifications and capabilities, while also providing additional protection for consumers. It is worth noting that Japan’s licensing system is not just a piece of paper. It requires operators to continue to comply with relevant regulations, undergo regular inspections, and renew licenses when necessary. For foreign companies, understanding and adapting to this system may be challenging, but it is also a necessary path to enter the Japanese market and gain the trust of consumers.
Japan’s special industry licensing system is based on multiple laws and is managed by government departments and specialized agencies at all levels. This system is characterized by clear hierarchy, strict requirements and complex procedures. The licensing application process and requirements vary from industry to industry, and some may take months or even longer to be approved. Therefore, before entering the Japanese market, companies need to be fully prepared and planned to ensure that they can obtain the required licenses smoothly. Understanding this system will not only help companies operate in compliance, but also help them better seize market opportunities and gain a firm foothold in Japan’s business environment.
Through this article, we will explore in depth the various aspects of Japan’s special industry licenses, providing you with a comprehensive and practical guide to help you start your business in Japan. Whether you are an entrepreneur just starting out or an established company seeking to expand your business in Japan, understanding and mastering these licensing requirements will be a key step in your success in the Japanese market.
Japan’s Special Industry Licensing System
Japan’s special industry licensing system is built on a strict and complex legal foundation. This system is mainly derived from the Japanese Commercial Code (Company Law), the Administrative Procedures Law (Administrative Procedures Law) and special regulations for specific industries. For example, the Food Sanitation Law (Food Sanitation Law) regulates food-related industries, the Construction Industry Law (Construction Industry Law) manages the construction industry, and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law (Financial Instruments Exchange Law) regulates the financial services industry. These laws together constitute the legal framework for special industry licensing in Japan, providing a legal basis for the application, issuance and management of various types of licenses.
Japan’s special industry licenses are jointly managed by multiple government agencies, forming a multi-level, multi-departmental management system. At the national level, central government departments such as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MLW), and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) are responsible for formulating relevant policies and regulations. At the local level, relevant departments in each prefecture and city are responsible for the specific acceptance, approval and supervision of license applications. For example, food hygiene licenses for the catering industry are mainly the responsibility of local health centers, while financial business licenses are uniformly managed by the Financial Services Agency (FSA). This hierarchical management model ensures the strict implementation and effective supervision of the licensing system.
There are many types of special industry licenses in Japan, covering almost all industries that require special supervision. They can be mainly divided into the following categories: first, industries closely related to public safety and health, such as licenses in the fields of food, medical care, and pharmaceuticals; second, industries involving financial and economic security, such as licenses for financial services such as banking, securities, and insurance; third, industries related to public services, such as licenses in the fields of transportation, education, and construction; fourth, special entertainment industries, such as custom business licenses. Each license has its own specific application conditions, procedures, and management regulations, reflecting the specific requirements and control priorities of the Japanese government for different industries.
It is worth noting that Japan’s licensing system is not only an administrative management method, but also an important mechanism to ensure the healthy development of the industry and protect the rights and interests of consumers. For companies that intend to conduct special industry business in Japan, in-depth understanding of this licensing system, choosing the type of license that suits them, and strictly abiding by relevant regulations are one of the key steps to successfully enter the Japanese market. At the same time, due to the complexity and local differences of the licensing system, it is recommended that companies seek professional legal and consulting services during the application process to ensure the smooth progress of the application.
Main special industry license types and requirements
In Japan, many industries require special licenses to operate legally. These licensing requirements reflect the Japanese government’s high regard for public safety, health, and economic order. Here is an overview of licensing requirements for some major industries:
The restaurant industry is a common business area for foreign investors in Japan, but operating a restaurant requires a food sanitation license. This license ensures that food handling and preparation meet strict hygiene standards. If the restaurant plans to serve alcoholic beverages, it will also need a liquor sales license. Both licenses are approved by the local health office.
The healthcare industry is strictly regulated in Japan. Opening a medical institution requires obtaining a special license, which is often a complicated process and requires meeting multiple conditions, including facility standards and personnel qualifications. Operating a drugstore also requires a license, and applicants must be qualified pharmacists. Even opening a beauty salon requires obtaining a specific license to ensure the safety of beauty services.
Licensing requirements are particularly stringent for the financial services industry. Banking, securities, insurance and money transmission businesses all require their own licenses, which are issued by the Financial Services Agency (FSA). The application process is often lengthy and requires significant capital and a strict system of internal controls.
There are also special requirements for the construction and real estate industries. To engage in construction, you need to obtain a construction license, which involves an assessment of technical ability and financial status. Real estate brokerage also requires a special license, and applicants need to pass relevant exams and meet certain practical experience requirements.
The licenses for the transport and logistics industry are divided into two categories: freight transport and passenger transport. These licenses are managed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and the application process includes multiple steps such as vehicle inspection and safety management system assessment.
The education and training industry, especially the establishment of schools and language schools, requires permission from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. This process involves reviewing many aspects such as curriculum, teacher staffing, and facility standards.
The entertainment industry has particularly strict licensing requirements. The entertainment business license covers a variety of entertainment venues, such as bars and nightclubs. Casino business licenses are currently limited to specific complex tourist facilities and are one of the latest special industries opened in Japan.
In the manufacturing industry, special licenses are required for both food manufacturing and drug manufacturing. These licenses ensure that products meet strict safety and quality standards and usually involve detailed reviews of production facilities and quality control systems.
Other special industries such as the labor dispatch industry and the waste disposal industry also require specific licenses. The labor dispatch industry license is aimed at protecting labor rights, while the waste disposal industry license focuses on environmental protection and public health.
In general, Japan’s special industry licensing system is very complex, and each industry has its own unique requirements and application procedures. Before entering these industries, companies need to fully understand the relevant regulations and make detailed preparations. At the same time, many licenses also require regular updates and continuous compliance, which requires companies to establish a long-term compliance management mechanism.
Application Process and Required Documents
Applying for a special industry license in Japan generally follows a standardized process, but the specific details may vary by industry and region. In general, the application process includes the following steps: First, the applicant needs to determine the type of license required and collect relevant information. Next, prepare all necessary documents, including application forms, company registration certificates, business plans, etc. Then, submit the application materials to the relevant government department. After submission, the government department will review it, which may also include an on-site inspection. If everything meets the requirements, the government department will issue the license. The whole process usually takes from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the industry and the completeness of the application.
When applying for a special industry license, common required documents include: company registration certificate (copy of registration book), which proves that the company is legally registered in Japan; business plan, which details the business content, operation mode and expected income; site lease contract or ownership certificate, which proves that there is a legal business place; identification and resume of the person in charge, which proves the qualifications of the management personnel; financial proof, such as bank deposit certificate or proof of funds; professional qualification certificate, some industries may require specific professional qualifications; tax records, which prove the company’s tax status. In addition, according to the special requirements of different industries, other special documents may also be required, such as health certificates, safety inspection reports, etc.
Regarding application fees, the fees for various types of special industry licenses vary greatly. Generally speaking, the fees can be divided into two parts: application fees and license fees. Application fees are usually paid when submitting an application, and the amount ranges from a few thousand yen to tens of thousands of yen. License fees are paid after the license is approved, and the amount ranges from tens of thousands of yen to hundreds of thousands of yen, depending on the type of industry and the size of the company. For example, the application fee for a food sanitation license is usually around 10,000 yen, while the fee for a construction industry license may be as high as 150,000 yen. It is worth noting that in addition to the direct application fees, companies also need to consider the costs associated with preparing application materials, such as document translation, notarization, etc. Some complex applications may also require the use of professional administrative scriveners or lawyers, which will also add additional costs. It is recommended that companies understand the various possible fees in detail before applying and make adequate financial preparations.
In general, applying for a special industry license in Japan requires careful preparation and patience. Understanding the clear application process, preparing complete documents, and budgeting the application fees are all key factors in successfully obtaining a license. It is recommended that companies fully study the relevant requirements before applying and seek professional help when necessary to ensure a smooth application process.
Things to note when applying for special licenses for foreign companies
When applying for a special industry license in Japan, foreign companies first need to pay attention to the company establishment requirements. Japanese law generally requires companies applying for special industry licenses to establish a legal entity in Japan. This means that foreign companies need to register a subsidiary or branch in Japan. The most common forms are a joint stock company (KK) or a contract company (GK). Different special industries may have specific requirements for company capital, board composition, office space, etc. For example, the talent dispatch business requires a minimum capital of 5 million yen, while the construction industry requires 20 million yen. Therefore, foreign companies should fully understand the specific requirements of the relevant industry before applying and make corresponding preparations.
Overcoming language barriers is another major challenge faced by foreign companies. Most administrative procedures in Japan are conducted in Japanese, including application documents, interpretation of regulations, etc. Although government departments in some large cities may provide limited English services, proficiency in Japanese is still essential when dealing with complex licensing applications. To this end, foreign companies may consider hiring local employees who are familiar with Japanese and related industries, or seek assistance from professional administrative scriveners or legal advisors. At the same time, actively learning Japanese, especially industry-related terminology, will also greatly facilitate communication with regulatory authorities and daily operations.
Dealing with cultural differences is also an area that foreign companies need to pay special attention to. Japanese business culture emphasizes harmony, courtesy and attention to detail. It is important to be patient, respectful and humble during the application process. For example, when meeting with government officials, you should dress appropriately, arrive on time and prepare detailed documents. In addition, the decision-making process in Japan is often slow and requires consensus from multiple parties. Foreign companies should understand and adapt to this culture of “nemawashi”, which is informal communication and consultation before formal meetings. Building a good interpersonal network and understanding Japanese business etiquette, such as the correct way to exchange business cards, will help smooth the licensing application process.
Finally, foreign companies should also note that compliance with regulations and transparency are extremely important in Japan. Any violations or improper operations may not only lead to the failure of the license application, but may also cause long-term damage to the company’s reputation. Therefore, it is recommended that companies fully understand the relevant laws and regulations before entering the Japanese market, establish a sound compliance system, and maintain integrity and transparency throughout the application and operation process. If appropriate, you can consider hiring local legal counsel to ensure a full understanding and compliance with Japanese legal requirements.
Maintenance and renewal of special industry licenses
In Japan, obtaining a special industry license is only the first step. Maintaining and renewing the license is equally important, which requires continuous attention and compliance from the company. The Japanese government strictly regulates special industries and requires companies to undergo regular inspections and submit reports. These inspections usually include on-site inspections, document reviews, and employee interviews. Reporting requirements vary by industry and may include financial statements, safety records, environmental impact assessments, etc. For example, companies in the food industry need to submit regular health inspection reports, while financial institutions are required to submit detailed business and risk management reports. Companies must take these requirements seriously because they are directly related to the continued validity of the license.
License renewal is another link that companies need to pay great attention to. Most special industry licenses have a fixed validity period, usually 3-5 years. Before the license expires, companies need to actively apply for renewal. The renewal process usually includes submitting renewal application forms, the latest company information, compliance certificates and other documents. Some industries may also require re-qualification review or on-site inspection. It is worth noting that license renewal is not a simple procedure. The regulatory agency will re-evaluate the company’s operating conditions and compliance records. Therefore, companies should prepare for renewal in their daily operations and maintain a good operating record and compliance status.
Violations can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, or even revocation. Japanese regulators have a zero-tolerance approach to violations, especially in areas involving public safety, consumer rights, and financial stability. Common violations include operating beyond the scope of business, false reporting, and safety violations. For example, a restaurant that sells alcohol without a proper license may face a heavy fine; a securities firm that violates financial regulations may have its operating license revoked. Once a license is revoked, the company not only faces huge financial losses, but may also permanently lose its eligibility to operate in the industry. Therefore, companies must establish a sound internal control system to ensure that all operations always comply with licensing requirements and relevant regulations.
In short, when operating in special industries in Japan, companies need to establish long-term compliance awareness and management mechanisms. Regular inspections and reports should not be seen as a burden, but as an opportunity for self-improvement and risk management. License renewals need to be planned in advance and considered as part of the company’s development strategy. Companies should remain highly vigilant about non-compliance risks and prevent problems through continuous employee training and internal audits. Only in this way can companies operate robustly in Japan’s strict regulatory environment and achieve long-term sustainable development.
Common problems and solutions for special industry license applications
When applying for special industry licenses in Japan, companies may encounter various challenges and problems. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can help companies complete the application process more smoothly. This section will explore common reasons for application rejections, how to deal with application delays, and how to deal with complex regulatory requirements.
Application rejection is the biggest setback many companies face when applying for special industry licenses. Common reasons for rejection include: incomplete or erroneous documents, failure to meet minimum capital requirements, lack of necessary professional qualifications or experience, substandard facilities or equipment, violation of local zoning regulations, etc. To avoid application rejection, companies should carefully study the requirements and ensure that all documents are accurate and complete. Before submitting an application, it is recommended to hire a professional industry consultant or legal expert to review it. If unfortunately, it is rejected, carefully analyze the reasons for the rejection and apply again after making targeted improvements.
Application delays are another common problem. Japan’s administrative procedures are known for being rigorous, but sometimes this can lead to longer processing times. When faced with delays, the first thing to do is to remain patient and proactively communicate with the relevant departments to understand the progress of the application. If the delay is longer than normal, you can politely ask the reason and ask if you need to provide additional information or documents. Before applying, you should fully understand the normal processing time and arrange your business plan reasonably. If the delay seriously affects your business operations, you can consider seeking help through industry associations or chambers of commerce, who may have more channels to speed up the process.
Complex regulatory requirements are often a problem that many businesses find troubling. Japan’s regulatory system is detailed and strict, which can sometimes make it difficult for foreign companies to understand and comply with it. To meet this challenge, companies should invest time and resources to learn the relevant regulations in depth. Consider taking industry training courses or hiring a local consultant who is familiar with Japanese regulations. Breaking down large tasks into small steps is an effective strategy when dealing with complex regulations. Create a detailed checklist and check and complete each requirement item by item. For particularly complex requirements, do not hesitate to seek clarification from the regulator. Japan’s administrative departments are usually willing to provide guidance as long as the request is made in an appropriate manner.
In general, applying for a special industry license in Japan may encounter various challenges, but most problems can be overcome as long as you are well prepared, patient and flexible. Companies should set up a dedicated team to handle license applications and ensure that team members are familiar with Japan’s business culture and administrative procedures. At the same time, it is also important to establish a good local network of relationships, which can help companies better understand and deal with various challenges. By paying attention to every detail, actively communicating, and seeking professional help when necessary, companies can greatly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a special industry license.
Combining special industry licenses with business strategies
To conduct business in the Japanese market, special industry licenses are not only a legal requirement, but also an important part of a company’s business strategy. Choosing the right type of license is the first step for a company to enter the Japanese market. This requires companies to conduct in-depth analysis of their business models, target markets, and long-term development plans. For example, a technology company that plans to provide diversified services in Japan may need to consider applying for multiple licenses such as software development, data processing, and telecommunications services at the same time. A company that focuses on a specific field, such as medical device manufacturing, should focus on related manufacturing and sales licenses. When choosing, you should also consider the difficulty, cost, and time of obtaining the license, as well as the degree of match with the company’s existing resources.
The acquisition of licenses has a profound impact on the development of enterprises. First, it provides protection for the legal operation of enterprises in the Japanese market and reduces legal risks. Second, special industry licenses often mean higher market entry barriers, which can help enterprises establish competitive advantages in certain areas. For example, in the financial services industry, companies that obtain banking or securities business licenses tend to enjoy higher customer trust and market recognition. In addition, the acquisition of certain licenses may bring additional business opportunities. For example, a company with a waste disposal license can not only carry out related business, but also may have an advantage in the bidding for environmental protection projects. However, enterprises also need to be aware that the acquisition and maintenance of licenses will increase operating costs and compliance burdens, which needs to be considered in strategic planning.
For many companies, a combination of multiple licenses can often bring greater business value. This strategy requires careful consideration of the synergy between various licenses. For example, if a catering company obtains a liquor sales license and an entertainment venue operating license in addition to a basic food hygiene license, it can carry out more diversified businesses, such as operating an izakaya or a theme restaurant. For another example, if a logistics company holds both cargo transportation and warehousing business licenses, it can provide customers with more comprehensive supply chain solutions. However, when pursuing diversified licenses, companies also need to be wary of the risks of overexpansion. Each additional license means more management complexity and compliance requirements. Therefore, companies need to find a balance between business expansion and risk control.
In general, combining special industry licenses with business strategies requires companies to have an in-depth understanding of the Japanese market and a clear understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses. This not only involves legal compliance, but also a strategic decision-making process related to corporate positioning, resource allocation and long-term development. Through careful planning and effective execution, companies can transform special industry licenses into competitive advantages in the Japanese market and lay the foundation for long-term success.
Case Study
1.Success Stories
Let’s first look at a successful case. In 2018, an American fast food chain successfully entered the Japanese market and quickly opened its first store in front of Tokyo Station. The success of this company is mainly attributed to their thorough preparation when applying for a food hygiene license. They not only carefully studied Japan’s food safety standards, but also hired local legal advisers and food safety experts. During the application process, they took the initiative to communicate with the Health Bureau and adjusted the store design and operating procedures in accordance with Japan’s unique hygiene requirements. As a result, they obtained the license in just 3 months, nearly twice as fast as the average foreign company. This case tells us that sufficient preliminary preparation and in-depth understanding of local regulations can greatly improve the efficiency and success rate of license applications.
Another success story comes from the fintech sector. A Chinese mobile payment company successfully obtained a license for Japan’s money transfer business in 2019. The main challenge the company faced during the application process was Japan’s strict data security and privacy protection requirements. To this end, they invested a lot of resources to upgrade their technical systems and introduced encryption technology that meets Japanese standards. At the same time, they also established partnerships with large financial institutions in Japan, enhancing the company’s credibility. The success of this company shows that in special industries, the combination of technological innovation and localization strategy can be a key factor in obtaining a license.
2.Failure cases and lessons learned
However, not all businesses are able to obtain the required special industry licenses smoothly. In 2020, a European online education platform attempted to open a language school in Japan, but encountered setbacks when applying for a language school license. The company underestimated Japan’s strict requirements for language schools, especially in terms of teacher qualifications and teaching facilities. They originally planned to rely mainly on online teaching, but Japanese regulations require sufficient physical teaching space. In addition, they failed to provide all teachers’ qualification documents in a timely manner. As a result, their application was rejected and they had to postpone their business plans in Japan. The lesson of this case is that when applying for a special industry license, all relevant regulations must be fully understood and strictly complied with, and the models of other countries cannot be taken for granted.
Another failure case worth learning from occurred in 2021 and involved a US medical device company. The company tried to sell an innovative home medical device in Japan, but encountered difficulties in applying for a medical device sales license. Their main problem was that they failed to correctly understand Japan’s medical device classification standards, which led to applying for the wrong type of license. In addition, the translation of the product instructions they provided was of poor quality and failed to accurately convey the product’s usage and precautions. This not only led to the rejection of the application, but also raised questions from Japanese regulators about the safety of the product. This case highlights the importance of precise document preparation and professional translation work in special industries, especially in areas involving public safety.
These case studies show that when applying for special industry licenses in Japan, companies need to be well prepared, have a deep understanding of local regulations, and seek professional help when necessary. The successful cases demonstrate the importance of careful preparation and localization strategies, while the failed cases warn us not to underestimate the complexity and strictness of special industry licenses in Japan. By learning from these lessons, companies can better plan their own Japanese market entry strategies and increase the success rate of obtaining the necessary licenses.
Future Trends
The development direction of Japan’s special industry licensing system is moving towards a more flexible and modern direction. In recent years, the Japanese government has realized that certain industry licensing systems may hinder innovation and economic growth, and is therefore promoting a series of reforms. These reforms are aimed at simplifying the application process and reducing unnecessary administrative burdens while maintaining strict protection of public safety and consumer rights. In the future, we may see more industries adopt a “negative list” management model, that is, except for explicitly prohibited behaviors, all other behaviors are allowed. This model will provide companies with greater room for innovation, but also place higher requirements on the capabilities of regulatory authorities.
Technological innovation is profoundly affecting Japan’s special industry licensing requirements. With the widespread application of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things, the business models of many traditional industries are changing. This forces regulators to constantly adjust licensing requirements to adapt to new technological realities. For example, in the field of fintech, the Japanese Financial Services Agency has begun to develop special licensing categories for new payment service providers. In the field of healthcare, the rise of telemedicine services has also driven changes in related licensing requirements. In the future, we may see more technology-based dynamic regulatory models, such as real-time data monitoring and intelligent compliance systems, which will make licensing management more precise and efficient.
The trend of internationalization is pushing Japan’s licensing system to be more open and compatible. With the increase of cross-border business activities, Japan is working to align its licensing system with international standards. This includes simplifying the process for foreign companies to apply for licenses and establishing mutual recognition mechanisms with other countries. For example, in certain professional qualification areas, Japan has begun to sign mutual recognition agreements with specific countries, making it easier for foreign professionals to obtain a license to practice in Japan. In addition, in order to attract more foreign investment, Japan is also considering relaxing foreign investment access restrictions in certain industries. In the future, we may see more international coordination efforts to reduce regulatory barriers to cross-border operations while ensuring regulatory consistency worldwide.
However, these changes are not without challenges. As the licensing system modernizes and internationalizes, Japanese regulators face the difficult task of striking a balance between promoting innovation and protecting the public interest. In addition, emerging issues such as cybersecurity and data protection will also have a significant impact on future licensing requirements. Companies need to pay close attention to these trends and actively adapt to changes, while also participating in the policy-making process and contributing to building a more reasonable and effective licensing system.
In general, the future of Japan’s special industry licensing system will focus more on flexibility, technological adaptability and international compatibility. This will bring new opportunities to companies, but it also means that companies need to continuously improve their compliance and innovation capabilities. For companies that want to develop in the Japanese market, understanding and adapting to these trends will become a key factor in success.
Conclusion and Recommendations
To operate special industries in Japan, obtaining the corresponding licenses is the basis and prerequisite for the legal operation of enterprises. Looking back at the content of this article, we can see the complexity and strictness of Japan’s special industry licensing system. From the catering industry to financial services, from healthcare to entertainment, each field has its own unique licensing requirements and application processes. These licenses are not only necessary for legal compliance, but also the key for enterprises to gain a foothold and develop in the Japanese market. Correctly understanding and obtaining the corresponding special industry licenses can provide legal protection for enterprises, enhance consumer trust, and gain advantages in the fierce market competition.
We have the following suggestions for different types of enterprises: For the catering industry, special attention should be paid to the acquisition and maintenance of food hygiene licenses; financial services companies need to apply for corresponding licenses according to the specific business type, such as banking business licenses or securities business licenses; healthcare companies need to focus on medical institution opening licenses and pharmacy business licenses; construction and real estate companies need to obtain construction licenses and real estate brokerage licenses; transportation and logistics companies need to apply for cargo transportation or passenger transportation licenses according to the nature of their business. Regardless of the type of enterprise, you should have a deep understanding of the special licensing requirements of your industry, prepare in advance, and seek professional help during the application process.
Long-term compliance management is crucial for companies operating in special industries in Japan. Obtaining a license is only the first step. Continuous compliance with relevant laws and regulations, regular renewal of licenses, and acceptance of regulatory inspections are all challenges that companies need to face in the long run. Companies should establish a sound internal compliance management system, conduct regular self-inspections, and update licenses in a timely manner. At the same time, companies should also pay close attention to changes in Japan’s special industry licensing system and adjust their business strategies in a timely manner. Only in this way can companies maintain long-term legal operations in the Japanese market and win the trust of consumers and regulators.
In general, operating special industries in Japan and obtaining and maintaining the corresponding licenses is a complex and ongoing task. Enterprises need to fully realize the importance of special industry licenses and formulate appropriate license application and maintenance strategies based on their own business characteristics. By strictly complying with licensing requirements and relevant regulations, enterprises can not only avoid legal risks, but also establish a good reputation in Japan’s highly regulated market and lay a solid foundation for long-term development. In the face of challenges, enterprises should remain patient and careful, and seek professional help when necessary to ensure that operations in special industries in Japan are both legal and compliant and can achieve sustainable development.