Ways Japanese Interior Design is Influencing the UK

5 August 2025
by Amika Hongo

Japanese Interior Design is increasingly influencing British homes. There is no denying that in recent years, a growing number of Japanese brands, aesthetics, and philosophies are crossing borders and making their way into the UK. Whether through global retailers like Muji and Uniqlo, viral Japanese Interior design trends like ‘Japandi’, or the rise of “zen branding” across lifestyle products, Japanese interior design is no longer niche and is more of a selling point. Marketers in the UK are embracing this cultural crossover, using Japanese values like wabi-sabi (侘び寂び) (imperfect beauty) and minimalism to cater towards a Western audience seeking simplicity and wellness at home.

Business

Cashless Payments in Japan: 5 Prominent Platforms

21 July 2025
by Amika Hongo

As the global digital economy is expanding, cashless payment platforms in Japan are making their way into everyday life all around the world. Advantages include the ability to simplify payment sending and receiving process, a shrinking grey economy, a boom in e-commerce, and a sharp reduction in fraud. A study by BCG has concluded that more cash-intensive economies tend to grow slowly and therefore miss out on significant financial benefits.

cashless payments in Japan — Source: SF Gate

Consumer Insights

Ed-Tech in Japan: Supporting Students Through the Exam Season

12 May 2025
by Olivia Taylor

January and February are critical months in Japan’s academic calendar, marked by the intensity of university entrance exams. These exams not only determine students’ academic futures but also play a significant role in shaping their personal career paths. In recent years, Japan’s emphasis on digitalisation, particularly in education technology, has transformed the way students prepare for this pivotal time. With the introduction of informatics as a subject in the unified entrance exams, the role of educational technology (Ed-Tech) has become more crucial in the last decade. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for international Ed-Tech companies looking to make a positive and encouraging impact in Japan.

Market

Hitachi’s Transformation Through AI: Opportunities for the Japanese and…

17 April 2025
by Olivia Taylor

Business people entering office in the morning

Hitachi, one of Japan’s most storied conglomerates, has successfully redefined itself in the past decade. Its strategic focus on artificial intelligence (AI), data monetisation, and digital transformation has propelled it to become one of Japan’s top five most valuable companies, with its market value tripling to over $100 billion. For businesses in Europe, the UK, and globally, this transformation underscores the promising potential of Japan’s AI sector and the collaborative opportunities available for international firms willing to enter the market.

Insights

Why Some Brands ‘Just Work’ in Japan – and…

12 December 2024
by Olivia Taylor

Entering the Japanese market can be an exceptional opportunity for global businesses, however its unique cultural, consumer, and business outlook can present challenges. Japan rewards brands that align with its unique values. Those who don’t? Not as much. This can be illustrated by the divergent outcomes of major companies such as KFC, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Subway.

KFC’s success in establishing a beloved Christmas tradition majorly contrasts with Subway’s inability to consistently resonate with Japanese consumers. This article explores why some brands thrive in Japan while others may falter, drawing lessons on cultural adaptation, consumer behavior, and strategic localisation. We’ll also examine how businesses can approach Japan with confidence and creativity, leveraging our expertise to maximise your success.

Consumer Insights

Exploring Japan’s Innovative Cooling Products: Solutions for Hot Summers

9 August 2024
by Nao Okamura

As global temperatures rise, summer heatwaves are becoming a common challenge worldwide. Japan, known for its hot and humid summers, has been at the forefront of developing innovative cooling technologies to survive this summer heat. Over the past five to six years, Japan has experienced significant increases in summer temperatures. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the average temperature during the summer months has consistently been above 32°C since 2018. In 2020, for example, Tokyo recorded temperatures above 35°C for several consecutive days, contributing to one of the hottest summers on record.

Consumer Insights

Changing Trends Due to Japan’s Ageing Population

4 July 2024
by Nao Okamura

The first article explored the profound implications of Japan’s rapidly ageing population on the country’s economic and business landscape. This demographic shift presents unique challenges and opportunities for various sectors. This second series takes a deep dive into specific trends emerging from Japan’s ageing population, focusing on evolving consumer preferences, anxieties and preparations for old age, and the increasing independence of elderly citizens.

Consumer Insights

The Impact of Japan’s Ageing Population on the Business…

20 June 2024
by Nao Okamura

Japan is undergoing a significant demographic shift, with an increasing proportion of its population classified as elderly or senior citizens, or those aged 65 and older. This demographic trend has profound implications for the business landscape, affecting various sectors from labour markets to consumer spending. While challenges such as a shrinking workforce and increased public service demands are evident, there are also numerous opportunities for businesses to innovate and adapt. This article explores these impacts, highlighting both the obstacles and the potential for growth.

Consumer Insights

The Divergent Use of Social Media in Japan and…

6 June 2024
by Nao Okamura

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, influencing how individuals communicate, consume content, and engage with businesses. However, the way social media is utilised varies significantly across different cultures. This article explores the distinctive use of social media in Japan compared to the West, Europe, particularly focusing on business strategies, consumer preferences, and cultural nuances.

Insights

Unveiling Japan’s Digital Playground: Trends, Culture and Opportunities

22 May 2024
by Nao Okamura

In the bustling metropolises of Japan, a digital revolution is underway, transforming the way people consume entertainment. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, online entertainment has become an integral part of daily life, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences for Japanese audiences. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the heart of Japan’s digital playground, uncovering key trends, cultural nuances, and the opportunities that await in this dynamic landscape.

Tokyoesque Insights

Ways Japanese Interior Design is Influencing the UK

Cashless Payments in Japan: 5 Prominent Platforms

Ed-Tech in Japan: Supporting Students Through the Exam Season

Hitachi’s Transformation Through AI: Opportunities for the Japanese and…

Why Some Brands ‘Just Work’ in Japan – and…

Exploring Japan’s Innovative Cooling Products: Solutions for Hot Summers

Changing Trends Due to Japan’s Ageing Population

The Impact of Japan’s Ageing Population on the Business…

Unveiling Japan’s Digital Playground: Trends, Culture and Opportunities

Questions? お問合せ？