Japan’s innovation ecosystem is a unique and complex network that deftly blends traditional corporate culture with emerging entrepreneurship. From the high-tech hub of Tokyo to the cultural innovation hub of Kyoto, this ecosystem encompasses large multinational corporations, dynamic start-ups, world-class research institutions, and supportive government policies. While maintaining Japan’s inherent precision manufacturing and technological advantages, it also actively embraces globalization and digitalization trends, and is constantly updated to adapt to the needs of the new era.
In this rapidly evolving environment, social events play a key role, becoming an important link between all parts of the innovation ecosystem. These activities are not only simple social occasions, but also platforms for knowledge exchange, creative collision and resource integration. For entrepreneurs, they provide access to the latest market trends, technological developments and investment opportunities. For foreign companies, this is an opportunity to understand local business culture and establish key contacts; for companies that have taken root in Japan, it is an important way to maintain innovation momentum and find partners.
In Japan, a business environment that places a high value on interpersonal relationships and trust, the value of these social activities is particularly prominent. They not only facilitate business transactions but also foster long-term business relationships and mutual trust. Through face-to-face communication, participants can gain an in-depth understanding of each other’s corporate culture and innovation vision, laying the foundation for future cooperation. At the same time, these activities are also an excellent platform for enterprises to demonstrate their strength and enhance brand awareness.
As globalization and digitalization deepen, innovative social events in Japan are constantly evolving. The rise of online and hybrid events breaks geographical restrictions, provides opportunities for more diverse participants, reshapes Japan’s innovation ecological landscape , and brings new possibilities for cross-cultural cooperation and global innovation.
In-depth participation in Japan’s innovation circle social activities is not only a window to understand this unique market, but also the key to integrating into it and achieving business success. Whether you are a start-up or a mature company, actively integrating into this ecosystem and actively participating in various social activities will open a new chapter in your innovation journey in Japan and promote enterprises to achieve sustainable development in this market full of opportunities and challenges.
Overview of major innovation centers
Japan’s innovation ecosystem presents a multi-center distribution pattern, with each center contributing to the country’s innovation development with its unique advantages and characteristics. This distribution not only reflects Japan’s geographical and economic diversity, but also demonstrates the country’s strategic layout in promoting comprehensive innovative development.
As the capital and largest metropolitan area of Japan, Tokyo is undoubtedly the core engine of national innovation. The city brings together the headquarters of many top domestic and foreign companies, advanced research institutions and a large number of start-up companies. Tokyo’s innovation ecosystem is known for its diversity and internationalization, covering various fields from fintech to artificial intelligence, biotechnology to new energy. Especially in areas such as Akihabara, Roppongi and Shibuya, unique innovation clusters have been formed. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has also actively launched supporting policies, such as the “Tokyo Innovation Ecosystem Promotion Project”, to further strengthen its position as a global innovation center.
As the second largest city in Japan, Osaka also occupies an important position in the field of innovation. The city, traditionally known for manufacturing and commerce, has been making a major push for innovative transformation in recent years. Osaka’s advantage lies in its deep industrial foundation and active business atmosphere, especially in the fields of life sciences, smart manufacturing and environmental protection technology. A major feature of Osaka’s innovation ecosystem is the close cooperation between industry, academia and research. Higher education institutions represented by Osaka University maintain close ties with local companies to promote the industrialization of innovative results. In addition, Osaka is also actively creating an international innovation environment, such as organizing Osaka Innovation Week and other activities to attract global innovation resources.
Although Fukuoka is not as large as Tokyo and Osaka, it is rapidly emerging as an important innovation center in Japan due to its unique geographical location and policy advantages. As the closest major Japanese city to the Asian continent, Fukuoka has a natural advantage in cross-border innovation cooperation. The “Fukuoka Startup City Declaration” launched by the city government and various supporting policies, such as the startup visa system, tax reduction measures, etc., have greatly stimulated local innovation and entrepreneurship activities. Fukuoka’s innovation ecosystem is known for its youthfulness and internationalization, especially in areas such as game development, mobile applications and digital content creation.
As a famous historical and cultural city in Japan, Kyoto has a unique innovation model. The city successfully blends traditional culture with modern technology to create a unique path to innovation. Kyoto’s innovation advantages are mainly reflected in cultural creativity, precision instruments, new materials and other fields. Universities represented by Kyoto University have made significant contributions in basic research and technological innovation. In addition, Kyoto has also cultivated well-known innovative companies such as Nintendo and Kyocera, demonstrating its profound innovation heritage. Kyoto’s innovation ecosystem pays special attention to sustainable development and integrates environmental protection concepts into the innovation process.
In addition to these major innovation hubs, Japan has a number of emerging innovation cities that are making their mark. For example, Sapporo is leveraging its unique climate conditions and natural resources to achieve breakthroughs in environmental technology and winter sports-related innovations. With its strong automotive industry foundation, Nagoya is actively promoting innovation in smart transportation and autonomous driving technologies. Sendai, relying on its excellent educational resources and post-earthquake reconstruction experience, has shown innovative potential in disaster prevention and reduction technologies and smart city construction. The emergence of these emerging innovative cities has further enriched Japan’s innovation landscape and injected new vitality into the country’s innovative development.
Japan’s innovation centers are characterized by diversification, distinctiveness and complementarity. Each center is leveraging its own strengths, while at the same time achieving resource sharing and complementary advantages through a close cooperation network. This distribution pattern not only promotes balanced regional development, but also enhances Japan’s overall innovation competitiveness, providing a solid foundation for the country to maintain its leading position in the global innovation competition.
Types of offline social activities
In Japan’s innovation ecosystem, offline social events provide valuable communication and cooperation opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, industry experts and entrepreneurs. These activities come in various forms and have their own characteristics, and together they constitute a rich and colorful social network in the Japanese innovation circle.
Startup Meetups are one of the most common and popular offline events. Such gatherings are usually characterized by a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to share experiences and exchange ideas. In major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, entrepreneur gatherings with various themes are held almost every week. For example, Tokyo Startup Meetup and Osaka Entrepreneurs Meetup are two popular regular events. These gatherings often revolve around specific themes, such as technological innovation, market strategies or financing techniques. Participants can introduce their projects through short speeches (often called “lightning pitches”) or network with other entrepreneurs during free networking sessions. This format not only helps expand contacts, but also provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to obtain feedback and find potential partners.
Industry seminars are a more formal and professional form of activity. Such events are usually hosted by industry associations, large enterprises or research institutions and focus on specific technology areas or industry trends. For example, Japan holds many AI and machine learning seminars every year, such as the “Annual Meeting of the All-Japan Artificial Intelligence Society” and so on. These seminars invite industry leaders and experts to deliver keynote speeches, organize group discussions and case analyses, providing participants with the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the cutting-edge trends in the industry. For entrepreneurs and companies, participating in such seminars can not only gain the latest industry insights, but also meet potential customers or partners.
Hackathons are becoming increasingly popular in Japan’s innovation circles, especially in the field of technological innovation. This intensive programming and innovation competition typically lasts 24 to 48 hours, with participants forming small teams to develop innovative products or solutions within a limited time period. Hackathons in Japan often incorporate local characteristics, such as “Sustainability Hackathon Tokyo” focusing on sustainable development solutions, while “Open Data Hackathon Fukuoka” uses open data to promote urban innovation. These activities are not only a stage to showcase technical capabilities, but also an excellent opportunity for talent recruitment. Many Japanese companies and multinational companies will send representatives to look for outstanding technical talents.
Innovation incubator open day is another important offline event. Innovation incubators across Japan, such as “EDGEof” in Tokyo and “GVH#5” in Osaka, regularly hold open days. During these activities, the incubator is open to the public, showcases settled entrepreneurial projects, and organizes meetings between entrepreneurs, investors, and media. This not only provides entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase themselves, but also gives the outside world the opportunity to learn about the latest innovation trends in Japan. Many incubators also hold workshops or small lectures at open days to provide entrepreneurs with practical business knowledge and skills training.
Investor matchmaking meetings are an important channel for direct dialogue between entrepreneurs and investment institutions. In Japan, such activities usually take the form of a “talent show”, where entrepreneurs have the opportunity to conduct project roadshows to multiple investors. For example, the “Slush Tokyo Pitch Contest” held in Tokyo is a high-profile large-scale investment matching event. In addition to large-scale events, many venture capital firms and angel investor networks also host regular smaller-scale matchmaking meetings. These activities not only provide financing opportunities for entrepreneurs, but also help investors discover promising innovative projects. It is worth noting that Japanese investment matching meetings tend to focus more on the establishment of long-term cooperative relationships, rather than just simple capital transactions.
These diverse forms of offline social activities jointly build the social foundation of Japan’s innovation ecosystem. They not only promote information exchange and resource integration, but also cultivate the cohesion of the innovation community. For foreign companies and entrepreneurs who want to enter the Japanese market, actively participating in these activities is an effective way to quickly integrate into the local innovation circle and establish a key network. At the same time, these activities also reflect the characteristics of Japan’s innovative culture: focusing on face-to-face communication, attaching importance to long-term relationship building, and pursuing substantive cooperation results. In the post-epidemic era, although the proportion of online activities has increased, these offline social activities are still an indispensable and important part of Japan’s innovation ecosystem.
Online social activity platform
Driven by the wave of digitalization, online social event platforms not only break geographical restrictions, but also provide innovators with a more flexible and efficient way to communicate and collaborate. Japan’s online social activity platforms mainly include virtual conferences and webinars, online innovation communities, and digital entrepreneurship accelerator projects, which together form a comprehensive, multi-level online innovation ecosystem.
Virtual conferences and webinars have become the most common form of online networking events in Japan’s innovation community. This form has been rapidly developed and widely used during the epidemic, and will continue to maintain its important position in the post-epidemic era. Japanese virtual meeting platforms such as V-CUBE and Zoom not only provide basic video conferencing functions, but also incorporate many special features adapted to Japanese culture, such as virtual business card exchange and online tea parties. These platforms are widely used in various innovation activities, from large-scale industry summits to small entrepreneur exchange meetings. For example, the “Japan Innovation Night” series of events has successfully moved offline summits online, connecting global innovators through virtual meetings. Online seminars focus more on knowledge dissemination and skills training. For example, the “J-Startup” project supported by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry regularly holds online training courses for entrepreneurs. These virtual events not only lower the threshold for participation, but also greatly increase the frequency and coverage of communication.
Online innovation communities are another rapidly growing field that provide innovators with a virtual space for continuous communication and resource sharing. In Japan, platforms like Wantedly and COCODA! have become important channels for connecting entrepreneurs, investors and talents. These platforms not only provide job opportunity posting and talent matching services, but also have forums, blogs and other functions to encourage users to share entrepreneurial experience and industry insights. It is particularly worth mentioning that some online communities focusing on specific fields have also emerged in Japan, such as the “Women’s Startup Lab Japan” online community for female entrepreneurs, which provides an exclusive communication and support network for female entrepreneurs. The existence of these online communities allows innovators to connect with like-minded people anytime and anywhere, greatly improving collaboration efficiency and resource utilization in the innovation process.
The Digital Entrepreneurship Accelerator Project is the most forward-looking component of Japan’s online innovation ecosystem. This model combines the traditional entrepreneurial accelerator concept with digital technology to provide entrepreneurs with comprehensive online support. For example, “HapSta” operated by SoftBank is a completely digital startup accelerator platform that provides entrepreneurs with full-process support from idea incubation to market promotion through online courses, virtual mentorship, and remote demonstration days. Another international accelerator program such as “500 Startups Japan” has also launched an online version in Japan to help Japanese entrepreneurs connect with global resources. These digital accelerator programs not only greatly reduce the geographical restrictions for entrepreneurs, but also provide more flexibility in providing customized support based on the characteristics of each entrepreneurial project. It is worth noting that many traditional offline accelerators are also actively exploring hybrid models, combining the advantages of online and offline to provide entrepreneurs with more comprehensive support.
While these online social event platforms promote the development of Japan’s innovation ecosystem, they also bring some new challenges. For example, how to build trust and deep connections in a virtual environment, how to protect intellectual property and business secrets, and how to balance online convenience with the irreplaceability of offline face-to-face communication, etc. To address these challenges, Japanese innovators and platform developers are constantly exploring new technologies and models. For example, some platforms have begun to try to use virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies to enhance the reality of online interactions, while some innovative communities have supplemented the lack of online communication by organizing regular offline gatherings.
Online social activity platforms have gradually become the backbone of Japan’s innovation ecosystem. They not only expand the network scope of innovators, but also accelerate the flow of information and resource integration in the innovation process. With the popularization of 5G technology and the development of artificial intelligence, we can expect these platforms to become more intelligent and personalized, injecting new vitality into Japan’s innovative development. For international companies and entrepreneurs who want to enter the Japanese market or cooperate with Japanese innovators, actively participating in these online platforms is undoubtedly a low-cost and efficient option that can help them quickly understand Japan’s innovation trends and establish necessary business network.
Important annual innovation activities
Japan’s innovation ecosystem welcomes a series of important annual events every year. These events are not only a stage to showcase the latest technologies and innovative achievements, but also an important platform to gather global innovation forces and promote cross-border cooperation. Among them, activities such as CEATEC, Slush Tokyo, Tech in Asia Tokyo and Japan Innovation Night are particularly eye-catching. They have their own characteristics and together constitute an annual event in the Japanese innovation community.
CEATEC (Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies) is Japan’s most influential comprehensive electronics and information technology exhibition, usually held in Tokyo every October. The history of this event dates back to 2000 and is co-sponsored by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA) and other organizations. CEATEC is not just an exhibition, it is more like a window into the future society. Exhibitors range from large multinational companies to innovative start-ups, and their displays include cutting-edge technology fields such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, 5G communications, autonomous driving, and smart homes. In recent years, CEATEC has particularly emphasized the concept of “Society 5.0”, focusing on how to solve social problems and promote sustainable development through technological innovation. In addition to exhibitions, CEATEC also holds multiple theme forums and professional conferences, inviting industry leaders and experts to discuss technology trends and the future of the industry. For entrepreneurs, CEATEC provides a rare opportunity to talk directly with industry giants to find cooperation opportunities, while also gaining media attention and potential investment.
Slush Tokyo is the Japanese branch of the world-renowned entrepreneurial event Slush, usually held in February or March every year. The event originated in Helsinki, Finland and is known for its unique atmosphere and focus on young entrepreneurs. Since Slush Tokyo was first held in 2015, it has quickly become one of the most anticipated annual events in the Japanese entrepreneurial community. The core of the event is the matching of entrepreneurs and investors. Through a carefully designed “matching system”, participating entrepreneurial teams can have one-on-one meetings with interested investors. In addition, Slush Tokyo also includes keynote speeches, group discussions, entrepreneurial competitions and other links. Compared with CEATEC, Slush Tokyo focuses more on early-stage entrepreneurial projects, providing a rare showcase opportunity for entrepreneurs in the seed round or Series A financing stage. Another major feature of the event is its unique visual design and immersive experience, which blurs the boundaries between work and party, creating a relaxed and enjoyable communication atmosphere for participants.
Tech in Asia Tokyo is an annual conference held in Japan by Tech in Asia, Asia’s leading technology media platform, and is usually scheduled in September or October. The event features an emphasis on an Asian perspective and strives to connect Japan’s innovation ecosystem with other Asian countries. Tech in Asia Tokyo usually lasts for two days, including keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, entrepreneurial exhibition areas and investment matching. Compared with Slush Tokyo, Tech in Asia Tokyo focuses more on providing industry insights and market trend analysis, and the speakers invited are mostly successful entrepreneurs, investors and industry experts. This event provides valuable network-building and market insight opportunities for Japanese entrepreneurs who want to expand into the Asian market, as well as entrepreneurs from other Asian countries who want to enter the Japanese market.
Japan Innovation Night is a relatively new but rapidly growing innovation event. It is usually held multiple times a year, taking turns in Tokyo and other major cities. The event is characterized by its relatively small scale but highly focused and in-depth content. Each event will select a specific innovation theme, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, clean energy, etc., and invite experts, entrepreneurs and investors in this field for in-depth exchanges. The format of Japan Innovation Night usually includes keynote speeches, entrepreneurial project demonstrations, expert comments and free communication sessions. Compared with large-scale conferences, such small-scale, high-frequency activities are more conducive to building a close innovation community and promoting in-depth exchanges and cooperation. Especially during the epidemic, Japan Innovation Night successfully transformed into an online format, maintaining the vitality of the innovation community.
Each of these important annual innovation activities has its own unique positioning and characteristics, and together they form an important support for the Japanese innovation ecosystem. They not only provide a platform for local Japanese innovators to display and communicate, but also become an important bridge connecting Japan and global innovation resources. For international entrepreneurs and investors, these events are an excellent opportunity to learn about the Japanese market and find partners. It is worth noting that in recent years, these activities have been actively exploring hybrid models that combine online and offline activities, expanding the scope of participation and influence.
Language considerations for social activities in innovation circles
In Japanese innovation circle social activities, language not only affects the communication effect of participants, but also determines to a large extent the degree of internationalization of the activities and the diversity of participants. Japanese innovation circle social activities can be roughly divided into three categories in terms of language use: Japanese-led activities, English-friendly activities and bilingual activities. Each type has its specific audience and unique advantages, which together constitute a multi-layered language environment in the Japanese innovation ecosystem.
Japanese-language events dominate Japan’s innovation scene, targeting local founders, investors and entrepreneurs. Typical Japanese-led events include the “J-Startup” series of events hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, as well as many local entrepreneur gatherings and industry seminars. These activities are characterized by in-depth exploration of Japan’s unique business environment, laws and regulations, and market characteristics, and participants can freely express complex ideas and subtle business insights in their native language. For local Japanese entrepreneurs who are just starting out, such activities provide a relatively comfortable and familiar environment, which is conducive to establishing an initial network of contacts. However, Japanese-led events also face the challenge of being less international, which may limit participants’ access to global innovation trends and resources. To address this challenge, many Japanese-led events have begun to offer simultaneous interpretation services or English summaries afterward to increase participation from international participants.
The increasing number of English-friendly events in Japan’s innovation circles reflects the trend of internationalization of Japan’s innovation ecosystem. This type of event is usually hosted by international organizations, multinational companies or local institutions with a global perspective, such as Slush Tokyo and Tech in Asia Tokyo mentioned above, which fall into this category. The biggest feature of English-friendly activities is that they can attract international participants from the universe, including foreign entrepreneurs, international investors and global business representatives. Such events provide opportunities for local Japanese innovators to connect with the international market, while also opening the door for foreign players to enter the Japanese market. However, it is worth noting that although these activities use English as the main communication language, in the Japanese cultural context, many informal communication and relationship-building processes may still be conducted in Japanese. Therefore, having basic Japanese communication skills remains a significant advantage for foreign participants who wish to make the most of these events.
Bilingual activities are a new trend emerging in Japan’s innovation scene, aiming to balance local needs with international trends. Such events usually use both Japanese and English, or provide simultaneous interpretation services. For example, CEATEC has adopted a bilingual approach in recent years, with mainly presentations and speeches in both Japanese and English. Another typical example is “Japan Innovation Night”, where speeches are usually given in Japanese, but with English subtitles or English simultaneous interpretation. The advantage of bilingual activities is that they can meet the needs of participants with different language backgrounds and create a more inclusive and diverse communication environment. This approach can not only attract international participants, but also allow local innovators in Japan to gradually adapt to international communication methods. However, organizing bilingual activities also faces challenges such as higher costs and longer preparation time.
As the Japanese government actively promotes the innovation internationalization strategy, we can expect that the language environment of Japan’s innovation circle will be more diversified in the future. More and more activities may adopt a bilingual model, or add English elements to original Japanese-dominated activities. At the same time, the development of artificial intelligence translation technology may also provide new solutions for cross-language communication. For example, some innovative activities have begun to try to use AI-driven real-time translation headsets to achieve smoother multi-language communication.
For international entrepreneurs and investors who wish to participate in Japan’s innovation scene, it is crucial to understand the linguistic characteristics of different types of events. While English-friendly and bilingual events provide a lower language barrier for foreign participants, mastering basic Japanese can still greatly enhance the effectiveness of networking. At the same time, for local innovators in Japan, actively participating in English-friendly activities and improving their English communication skills will help broaden their international horizons and grasp global innovation trends.
Industry-specific innovation activities
Japan’s innovation ecosystem not only has comprehensive large-scale events, but also professional innovation events for specific industries. These industry-specific events provide a platform for in-depth exchanges and cooperation between experts, entrepreneurs and investors in various fields, and promote Japan’s development in multiple cutting-edge technology fields. Below we will explore in detail innovation activities in five key areas: financial technology, artificial intelligence and machine learning, Internet of Things, life sciences and medical technology, clean energy and sustainable development.
Innovative activities in the financial technology (FinTech) field have attracted much attention in Japan in recent years. As the third largest economy in the world, Japan has huge potential for innovation in its financial market. The “FinTech Summit” held every year in Tokyo is one of the most influential events in the field. The summit brings together representatives from traditional financial institutions, startups, regulators and investors to discuss hot topics such as blockchain, digital currency, insurtech and more. In addition to keynote speeches and panel discussions, the summit also features an innovation showcase area for FinTech startups to showcase their latest products and services. Another event worthy of attention is the “FinTech PoC Hub” hosted by the Financial Services Agency (FSA). This is a year-round project that aims to provide a regulatory sandbox environment for financial technology innovation. Participants can test new financial products and services in a controlled environment, which greatly accelerates the process of financial innovation. These activities not only promote the digital transformation of Japan’s financial industry, but also provide valuable opportunities for international FinTech companies to enter the Japanese market.
Innovation in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is also booming in Japan. The annual conference held every year by the “Japanese Society for Artificial Intelligence” (JSAI) is the most important academic and industrial exchange platform in this field. This several-day conference includes academic paper presentations, industry application case sharing, innovation and entrepreneurship competitions, etc. In addition, the “AI・ビジネスutilityフォーラム” (AI Business Application Forum) is an annual event that focuses more on AI business applications. It builds a bridge between AI technology providers and potential enterprise users. In addition to these large-scale events, there are many small-scale but high-frequency AI Meetup events, such as Tokyo AI Meetup, which provide daily communication and learning opportunities for AI practitioners. Japan’s advantages in AI subfields such as natural language processing, image recognition, and robotics have enabled these activities to attract a large number of international participants.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a key area in the Japanese government’s “Fourth Industrial Revolution” strategy, and related innovation activities are also abundant. “IoT Acceleration Lab” (IoT Acceleration Lab) is a nationwide project led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. It regularly holds workshops and hackathons in various places to promote the commercial application of IoT technology. The “IoT/M2M Exhibition” held every year in Yokohama is Japan’s largest professional IoT exhibition, bringing together participants from the entire industry chain from chip manufacturers to system integrators. In addition, although the “Smart City Expo” (Smart City Expo) has a broader theme, IoT technology plays a core role in it. This exhibition provides a platform for city managers and technology companies to communicate and demonstrates how IoT can be applied to smart cities. construction.
Life sciences and medical technology are another focus area for innovation in Japan, especially in the context of facing the challenges of an aging population. “BioJapan” is Asia’s largest biotechnology business matching event, held every year in Yokohama. The three-day event includes exhibitions, seminars and one-on-one business matching, covering a wide range of topics from pharmaceuticals and medical devices to bioinformatics. For medical technology innovation, the “Health and Medical Venture Awards” is an important annual event aimed at discovering and supporting potential medical and health entrepreneurial projects. In addition, the “Healthcare Innovation Forum” organized by the Japan Healthcare Policy Institute (HGPI) focuses more on policy and industry trends, providing a platform for in-depth exchanges with industry stakeholders.
Innovative activities in the fields of clean energy and sustainable development reflect Japan’s long-standing commitment to environmental protection and energy security. “Smart Energy Week” (Smart Energy Week) is Japan’s largest new energy exhibition, covering multiple sub-fields such as solar energy, wind energy, and hydrogen energy. This annual event not only showcases the latest clean energy technologies, but also includes numerous professional seminars discussing energy policy, market trends and other topics. For entrepreneurs, the “Cleantech Challenge” (Cleantech Challenge) is a high-profile entrepreneurial competition that provides showcase and financing opportunities for clean technology startups. Under the broader theme of sustainable development, the “EcoPro” (EcoPro) exhibition attracts a large number of companies and the public every year to showcase various innovations from environmentally friendly materials to circular economy models.
These industry-specific innovation activities have promoted in-depth exchanges and cooperation within each field to a certain extent , and also built bridges between different fields. For example, we can see the widespread application of AI technology in fintech, medical technology, or how IoT solutions drive smart management of clean energy. This cross-disciplinary integration is a key driver of Japan’s overall innovation ecosystem.
Innovative activities supported by the government and institutions
In Japan’s innovation ecosystem, the government and various institutions organize various activities to provide support, resources and network opportunities for innovators, thereby promoting the innovation development of the entire country. These activities not only cover the national level, but also reach down to the local level, and also include the participation of academia. Below we will discuss in detail the activities of JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), innovation support activities hosted by various local governments, and open innovation activities of universities and research institutions.
JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), as an official agency of the Japanese government, plays a key role in promoting Japan’s connection with the global innovation ecosystem. JETRO organizes a series of events every year aimed at attracting foreign innovative companies and promoting the internationalization of Japanese innovation. The most notable of these is the “Invest Japan” series of events, a comprehensive program aimed at attracting foreign direct investment and innovative companies to the Japanese market. As part of this project, JETRO regularly holds “Invest Japan Seminar” to introduce Japan’s business environment and investment opportunities in major cities around the world. For foreign innovative companies that have decided to enter the Japanese market, JETRO provides “IBSC” (Invest Business Support Center) services, which include free temporary office space, consulting services, and introduction of local partners.
In addition, JETRO also organizes the “Innovation Leaders Summit” (Innovation Leaders Summit), an annual event that brings together innovation leaders, entrepreneurs and investors from Japan and the world. At this summit, participants can participate in keynote speeches, panel discussions, and one-on-one business matching activities. It is particularly worth mentioning that JETRO has also established the “J-Startup” project to identify and support Japanese startups that have the potential to succeed in the global market. The selected companies not only receive close support from JETRO, but also have the opportunity to participate in various international innovation events, such as CES (International Consumer Electronics Show).
Innovation support activities hosted by local governments are another important component of Japan’s innovation ecosystem. These activities reflect the Japanese government’s strategy to promote local innovation and achieve balanced development. For example, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government holds the “Tokyo Financial Award” every year, aiming to attract global financial technology innovators to develop in Tokyo. The winners not only receive cash prizes, but also receive support from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in terms of market access and regulatory sandboxes.
The “Osaka Innovation Hub” jointly established by Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City regularly holds entrepreneurship training, innovation competitions and investment matching activities, focusing on supporting innovation in Osaka’s advantageous industries such as life sciences and robotics. The “Startup City Fukuoka” project launched by the Fukuoka City Government has created a lively entrepreneurial atmosphere by holding activities such as hackathons and entrepreneurial coffee parties. The project also established an “Entrepreneurship Visa” to provide convenient entry and residence conditions for foreign entrepreneurs.
In Hokkaido, the Sapporo City Government cooperates with the local IT Industry Association to hold the “No Maps” Innovation Festival every year. This is a cross-border innovation event that combines music, film and technology, aiming to stimulate creativity and promote industrial integration. These local government-led activities not only provide valuable resources and opportunities for local innovators, but also build a bridge for innovation exchanges between different regions.
Open innovation activities in universities and research institutions are an important link between academic research and industrial application. In recent years, Japan’s top universities have paid more and more attention to industry-university cooperation and technology transformation, and have established specialized innovation centers and incubators. For example, “The University of Tokyo Innovation Platform Co., Ltd.” established by the University of Tokyo not only manages the university’s intellectual property rights, but also regularly holds innovation forums and entrepreneurship training camps to promote the commercialization of research results.
Kyoto University’s “Kyoto University Innovation” holds the “Kyoto Innovation Capital Exhibition” every year to provide opportunities for display and financing of innovative projects on and off campus. This event places special emphasis on combining Kyoto’s traditional industries with cutting-edge technology, reflecting Japan’s unique approach of integrating tradition and modernity in innovation.
In terms of research institutions, RIKEN, as the largest comprehensive research institution in Japan, holds the “RIKEN Open Day” every year, opening its laboratories to the public, displaying the latest research results, and holding popular science lectures. This not only promotes public understanding and support for scientific and technological innovation, but also builds a communication platform for researchers and industry.
The Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) actively promotes the transformation of research results into industrial applications through its “AIST Inventor Award” and regular technical briefings. AIST has also established joint research laboratories in cooperation with a number of large enterprises, and regularly holds open days to promote industry-university-research cooperation.
These innovation activities supported by the government and institutions form a multi-level and all-round innovation support network. They not only provide direct resources and opportunities for innovators, but more importantly, they cultivate a social environment conducive to innovation. Through JETRO’s activities, Japan’s innovation ecosystem is in line with the world; through the support of local governments, innovation vitality has penetrated throughout the country; through the participation of universities and research institutions, basic research and industrial needs have been closely integrated.
However, this system also faces some challenges. For example, how to coordinate central and local innovation policies to avoid duplication of resources and excessive competition; how to balance the needs of internationalization and localization and cultivate local innovation forces while attracting international talents; how to further break the gap between academia and industry. barriers to achieve more efficient knowledge transformation, etc.
Taken together , these innovative activities supported by the government and institutions form the backbone of Japan’s innovation ecosystem and provide fertile soil for innovation to flourish. They reflect Japan’s systemic thinking and long-term commitment to promoting innovation and are integral to understanding and engaging with Japanese innovation.
Network construction and follow-up strategies
In Japan’s innovation ecosystem, participating in various activities is only the first step to success. The real value is often found in how effectively you build connections and how you maintain and deepen those relationships after the event. This process requires not only strategy but also a deep understanding of Japanese business culture. Below, we will explore in detail how to effectively establish connections at events, as well as post-event follow-up and relationship maintenance techniques.
To establish effective connections in Japanese innovation activities, you first need to fully understand Japanese business culture and social etiquette. The Japanese place a high value on etiquette and mutual respect, so introducing yourself appropriately when meeting someone for the first time is crucial. It is a basic requirement to prepare bilingual business cards in Japanese and English. When exchanging business cards, you should hand them out and receive them with both hands, and take the time to read the other party’s business card carefully. This shows respect for the other party. Additionally, in Japan, it often takes time to build trust, so don’t expect concrete cooperation from the first meeting. Instead, focus on building the foundation of a long-term relationship.
Actively participating in panel discussions and Q&A sessions at events is a great way to make connections. Asking insightful questions or sharing relevant experiences not only demonstrates your expertise but also gets others to take notice. However, be careful to maintain a humble attitude; overconfidence or aggressive behavior may be off-putting in Japanese culture.
Taking advantage of downtime and social sessions at events is a great opportunity to make personal connections. In Japan, these informal exchanges are often more helpful in building relationships than formal meetings. You can take the initiative to approach people who are interested, briefly introduce yourself, and express interest in their work or ideas. On such occasions, it is also important to prepare some light-hearted topics, such as asking the other person’s opinion about the event, or discussing innocuous topics such as the weather or local food. This helps establish an initial rapport.
In innovation activities in Japan, there is often a “name card exchange meeting” (business card exchange meeting). This is a focused time for exchanging business cards and brief exchanges. In this situation, be prepared to introduce yourself concisely and forcefully, which usually includes your name, company or organization, position, and the main purpose of your participation in the event. Try to introduce yourself in Japanese, even just a few simple sentences will leave a positive impression on Japanese people.
For international participants, demonstrating understanding and respect for Japanese culture is key to establishing effective connections. You can mention your knowledge of Japan in the conversation, such as the Japanese food you like, the Japanese cities you have visited, or the Japanese companies you know about, etc. Not only does this bring you closer, but it also demonstrates your interest and understanding of the Japanese market.
After establishing initial contacts, post-event follow-up and relationship maintenance are key to turning these contacts into substantive cooperation. In Japan, relationship maintenance is viewed as an ongoing process that requires an investment of time and energy.
It’s a good practice to send a follow-up email within 24 to 48 hours after the event. This email should be concise and personal, recapping the key points of your conversation, expressing gratitude, and making suggestions for further communication. In Japanese, it is very important to use appropriate honorifics, and if you are unsure, it is best to ask a native Japanese speaker to check.
Maintaining regular contact is key to maintaining a relationship. This can include sharing relevant industry news, congratulating each other on their career achievements, or sending blessing messages during traditional Japanese festivals such as New Year (お日月), Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク), etc. This ongoing, non-utilitarian communication helps build long-term trusting relationships.
In Japan, face-to-face meetings remain the most effective way to deepen relationships. If you visit Japan frequently, propose an informal meeting, such as having coffee or lunch together. This relaxed setting facilitates deeper communication and mutual understanding. If frequent visits to Japan are not possible, consider using video conferencing tools for regular online meetings.
Participating in activities organized by the other person or inviting them to your events are also good ways to maintain a relationship. Not only does this show your interest in the other person’s work, it also creates opportunities for further collaboration. For example, if you learn that the other person will be speaking at a conference, you can express that you will go and listen to their speech. This supportive behavior is very popular in Japanese culture.
In Japan, the concept of giri plays an important role in business relationships. This can be understood as a sense of obligation for mutual benefit. Therefore, if the other person provides you with help or information, you should look for opportunities to reciprocate. This could be providing valuable market insights, introducing potential business partners, or providing assistance in your area of expertise.
For cross-cultural relationship maintenance, understanding and respecting cultural differences is crucial. For example, Japanese people are generally more reserved and will not directly express their objections. Therefore, in communication, you must learn to “observe words and colors” and pay attention to the other party’s non-verbal clues. At the same time, Japan’s decision-making process is often slow and requires consensus among multiple parties. Be patient during the follow-up process and don’t put too much pressure on the other person.
Leveraging social media is also an effective tool for maintaining relationships, but be careful about your choice of platform. In Japan, although the use of LinkedIn is increasing, it is not as popular as in Western countries. On the contrary, Twitter (known as X in Japan) is popular in Japanese business circles. Follow and moderately interact with each other’s social media accounts to stay connected, but be careful to stay professional and presentable.
In the process of maintaining a relationship, it is important to have clear goals and strategies. Not all connections require the same level of attention. Based on your business goals, categorize contacts and develop a maintenance strategy accordingly. For key contacts, more frequent and in-depth interactions may be necessary; for general contacts, regular but less frequent interactions may be sufficient. Remember that in Japanese business culture, it takes time to build real trust and deep relationships. Don’t expect to see concrete business results anytime soon. Instead, think of the process as a long-term investment that continually demonstrates your sincerity, reliability, and value. Over time, these efforts translate into substantial business opportunities and collaborations.
Special suggestions for foreign companies and entrepreneurs
For foreign companies and entrepreneurs, entering Japan’s innovation ecosystem presents both opportunities and challenges. As the world’s third largest economy, Japan has a mature market, advanced technology and abundant resources, but it is also known for its unique business culture and highly localized market environment. Success in such an environment requires a deep understanding of cultural differences, active integration into local innovation circles, and smart market development strategies. The following are special recommendations for foreign companies and entrepreneurs to help them establish themselves on Japan’s innovation scene.
Japanese business culture emphasizes harmony, respect for hierarchy, and collective decision-making. Humility and patience are key when dealing with Japanese partners or clients. For example, in a meeting, don’t expect an immediate decision or a clear answer. Japan’s decision-making process often involves multi-party consultation and consensus-building, which can take longer than in Western countries. In addition, in Japan, the ability of non-verbal communication and “air を読む” (reading the atmosphere) is very important. Learning to read subtle expression changes and body language can help you better understand what your Japanese partner is really thinking.
In terms of business etiquette, preparing bilingual business cards, correct bowing etiquette, and appropriate use of honorifics are all basic requirements. But more important is understanding the cultural meaning behind these rituals. For example, frequent apologies in Japanese culture do not necessarily mean admitting mistakes, but more of a way to show respect for others and maintain harmonious relationships. Likewise, in Japan, trust is often built through informal social activities, such as dining or drinking together. While this may differ from some Western business cultures, actively participating in these activities can go a long way toward building relationships.
Integrating into the Japanese innovation circle requires initiative and strategy. First, learning Japanese is a strong signal that you are committed to long-term development. Even knowing just basic everyday language and business terminology can go a long way toward improving communication and building trust. Secondly, actively participate in local innovation activities and industry conferences. For example, large technology exhibitions such as Japan IT Week and Slush Tokyo held in Tokyo every year are excellent network building opportunities. In addition, joining relevant industry associations or chambers of commerce, such as the Foreign Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (FCCJ) or industry-specific associations, can help you integrate into the local network more quickly.
Utilizing innovation centers and incubators is also an effective way to integrate into Japan’s innovation circle. For example, Shibuya Scramble Square in Tokyo not only provides office space, but also frequently holds innovative events and exchange meetings. Participating in these spaces not only reduces initial costs but also provides quick access to local innovation ecosystems.
A long-term and flexible strategy is needed to develop the Japanese market using innovative activities. First, make full use of government-supported resources. For example, JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) provides a lot of support to foreign companies, including market information, business matching services, and even temporary office space. Participating in activities organized by JETRO, such as the “Invest Japan” seminar, can help you quickly understand the characteristics and opportunities of the Japanese market.
Secondly, finding the right local partner is crucial. The Japanese market relies heavily on trust and relationship networks, and having a reliable local partner can greatly speed up your market entry process. In innovation activities, look for potential partners who not only have relevant expertise but are also willing to serve as cultural bridges. This could be a local business, an influential industry expert, or a consulting firm that understands your industry.
When it comes to localizing products or services, pay attention to Japanese consumers’ high requirements for quality and details. Simple translation is often not enough, and a deep understanding of the needs and preferences of Japanese users is required. Attending innovation events in Japan can help you gain valuable user feedback and understand market trends. For example, showing your product prototype at a trade show and carefully observing and listening to the reactions of Japanese visitors can provide direct and valuable insights into product improvements.
In addition, utilizing Japan’s unique business models and channels is also an important strategy to expand the market. For example, large Japanese conglomerates (such as Mitsui, Mitsubishi, etc.) usually have their own innovation departments or venture capital funds. Connecting with these businesses through innovative activities may lead to investment opportunities or even access to their vast business ecosystems. Similarly, Japan’s “open innovation” trend also provides opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs, and many large Japanese companies are actively seeking to cooperate with innovative foreign companies.
When it comes to market entry strategies, consider an incremental approach. You can first test the market response by participating in innovation events, and then gradually expand your presence in Japan. For example, you can first establish a representative office to focus on market research and network building, and then decide whether to establish a subsidiary or seek deeper cooperation. This approach reduces risk while giving you more time to understand and adapt to the Japanese market.
Case studies
In Japan’s innovation ecosystem, success stories not only provide valuable lessons, but also inspire other businesses and entrepreneurs. Below we will delve into two real-life cases, showing how to successfully leverage innovation circle networking events and how to obtain investment or cooperation through participating in the events.
First, let’s look at how American artificial intelligence startup Preferred Networks (PFN) successfully used innovation circle social events to gain a foothold in Japan. PFN was established in 2014 and focuses on the research, development and application of deep learning technology. Although the company originated in the United States, its founders recognized early on the potential of the Japanese market, particularly in the fields of industrial automation and robotics.
One of PFN’s successful strategies is to actively participate in various innovation events and technology exhibitions in Japan. They often appear at large technology exhibitions such as CEATEC (Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies) in Tokyo, not only displaying their technology but also actively interacting with participants. At these events, PFN representatives not only prepared detailed technical demonstrations, but also specially invited team members who were proficient in Japanese to participate to ensure in-depth communication with Japanese audiences.
PFN also places a special focus on participating in industry-specific mini-seminars and roundtables. For example, they participated in a symposium on the application of artificial intelligence in manufacturing organized by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. On these occasions, PFN not only shared its technical insights, but also listened carefully to the needs and challenges of Japanese manufacturing giants. This active engagement and listening attitude helped PFN quickly establish a reputation in Japan’s innovation community.
Through these activities, PFN successfully attracted the attention of Toyota Motor. In 2015, Toyota announced an investment of US$10 million in PFN to develop autonomous driving technology. This not only provided financial support for PFN, but more importantly opened the door to the Japanese automobile industry for them. Subsequently, PFN successively established cooperative relationships with other large Japanese companies such as Fanuc (a leader in the field of industrial robots).
PFN’s case shows how to build brand awareness, gain industry insights, and ultimately win the trust and investment of large enterprises through active participation in innovative activities. Their success lies not only in their technical prowess, but also in their respect and understanding of the Japanese market and their strategy of building long-term relationships through continued participation in various events.
Next, let’s take a look at how Japanese local startup SmartHR obtained investment and cooperation by participating in innovative activities. SmartHR, founded in 2013, is a company that provides human resources management cloud services, aiming to simplify the complex personnel processes of Japanese companies.
SmartHR founder Noboru Miyata realized in the early days of his business that having a good product was not enough; he also needed to build a strong network in the Japanese entrepreneurial ecosystem. He began to frequently participate in various entrepreneurial activities in Tokyo, including well-known technology conferences such as Slush Tokyo and Tech in Asia Tokyo. At these events, Miyata not only introduced his products, but also actively participated in various panel discussions to share his insights on the pain points of Japanese human resources management.
The SmartHR team pays special attention to a weekly entrepreneurial roadshow called “Morning Pitch”. The event, organized by the Deloitte Innovation Center, takes place every Thursday morning in Tokyo and provides entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase themselves to investors and large corporations. SmartHR attended this event in 2015, and their presentation not only showcased product features but also highlighted how they solve Japan-specific HR management challenges, such as the complex social insurance filing process.
This speech attracted the interest of several venture capital companies, including the famous Japanese venture capital firm GLOBIS Capital Partners. Through subsequent in-depth exchanges, GLOBIS finally led SmartHR’s Series A financing in 2015, with the amount reaching 250 million yen (approximately US$2.3 million). This investment not only provided necessary financial support, but GLOBIS’s industry connections also helped SmartHR quickly expand its customer base.
In addition to securing investment, SmartHR has also established important corporate partnerships through innovative activities. At the 2016 HR Tech exhibition, SmartHR’s booth attracted the attention of Japanese telecom giant KDDI. KDDI is looking for innovative enterprise services to expand its B2B business lines. After many meetings and in-depth discussions after the exhibition, SmartHR finally reached a strategic cooperation agreement with KDDI, and KDDI integrated SmartHR’s services into its service package for small and medium-sized enterprises. This cooperation has greatly enhanced SmartHR’s market coverage and brand awareness.
The case of SmartHR shows how a company’s position in the Japanese entrepreneurial ecosystem can be gradually established through continuous participation in various innovative activities. Not only did they secure critical early investment, they also found large corporate partners through trade show events who could quickly expand the market. The key to SmartHR’s success was that they not only showcased great products, but also clearly expressed their deep understanding of Japan’s specific market needs.
Both cases highlight the importance of continued engagement and long-term investment in the Japanese innovation ecosystem. Whether you are a foreign company or a local entrepreneur, the key to success lies in deeply understanding the unique needs of the Japanese market, building an extensive network through various innovative activities, and converting these relationships into substantial business opportunities. These cases also show that in Japan, technological strength is important, but what is more critical is how to combine technology with Japanese business culture and market demand. With the right approach and sustained efforts, innovation activities can become a powerful bridge connecting technology, capital and markets, paving the way for companies to succeed in Japan.
Future trends and conclusions
Japan’s innovative social activities are in a period of transformation and development. With the advancement of the global technological wave and changes in Japan’s social structure, we can foresee that these activities will show a more diversified and international trend in the future. Although traditional face-to-face communication will still maintain its importance, digital and virtual elements will be increasingly integrated into it, creating hybrid and innovative communication models.
In terms of development direction, we can expect to see more cross-industry and cross-field integration. For example, activities that combine art, design and technological innovation may become more common, reflecting Japan’s emphasis on cultural soft power under its “Cool Japan” strategy. At the same time, considering the aging problem faced by Japan, innovative activities around topics such as health technology and smart elderly care may receive more attention. In addition, as the Japanese government promotes local creation, we may see more innovation activities dispersed across various local cities, rather than just concentrated in metropolitan areas such as Tokyo.
Emerging technologies will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the shape of innovation activity. The application of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies may revolutionize the experience of remote participation, allowing innovators around the world to participate in Japanese innovation activities in a more immersive way. AI-driven matching systems may make connections between participants at events more efficient, recommending the most suitable people to connect with based on interests, expertise and goals. Blockchain technology may be used to create a more transparent and efficient innovation resource allocation system, such as in innovation competitions or entrepreneurial investments.
However, despite the possibilities offered by technology, Japan’s unique business culture and way of building relationships means that face-to-face communication will remain at its core. Technology plays more of an auxiliary and enhanced role, rather than completely replacing traditional communication methods. We may see a new model of “online and offline integration” that not only retains the personal contact valued in traditional Japanese business interactions, but also uses technology to expand the scope of participation and improve efficiency.
The importance of participating in social events in Japan’s innovation community cannot be overstated. This is not only an important way to understand the Japanese market and establish a business network, but also the key to deeply understanding Japanese business culture and establishing trusting relationships. In Japan, business success is often built on long-term relationships and mutual trust, and innovation events provide an ideal platform for building such relationships. For foreign companies and entrepreneurs, these events are a quick way to integrate into the Japanese market, helping them overcome cultural barriers and find suitable partners and investors.
For local innovators in Japan, these activities are important channels to break down traditional hierarchies and promote open innovation. Here, large enterprises can come into contact with fresh ideas and technologies, and start-up companies can obtain valuable industry insights and resource support. This exchange not only promotes the development of individual companies, but also drives the vitality and competitiveness of the entire Japanese innovation ecosystem from a larger perspective.
Therefore, we strongly encourage all individuals and organizations committed to developing the innovation field in Japan to actively participate in these activities and maintain an attitude of continuous learning. Japan’s business environment and innovation ecosystem have their own unique characteristics that take time to understand and adapt to. By continuing to participate in various innovation activities, you will not only build the necessary relationships, but also gradually deepen your understanding of the Japanese market.
Remember, in Japan, success often does not happen overnight, but is built through long-term efforts and relationships. Maintain an open and humble attitude towards learning, respect Japanese business habits and cultural traditions, and at the same time have the courage to show your unique value. Actively seek feedback and constantly adjust your strategy. You must be patient and enthusiastic.
Ultimately, while participating in these activities does require an investment of time and effort, the investment is worth it in the long run. It will not only open up new opportunities for your career, but also enrich your professional vision and cultural understanding. In an increasingly globalized world, being able to successfully navigate the unique and important market of Japan will undoubtedly be a valuable competitive advantage. Therefore, we call on all innovators to take steps bravely and actively participate in Japan’s colorful innovation activities. We believe that through unremitting efforts and smart strategies, you will definitely find your own destiny in this land full of opportunities. own path to success.
