Thinking about starting a business in Japan can be an exciting prospect. The Japanese market offers unique opportunities, but it’s natural to feel some anxiety about where to begin. You might be wondering who to talk to or what resources are available, which can make it hard to take that first step.

Summary The right resource for you depends on where you are in your journey:

Vague plans? → IBPC Osaka Want to understand culture and economy? → Japagrit Need hands-on, expert support? → BSJ   This guide is designed to help you find the right support based on where you are in your business planning journey. We’ll look at three excellent resources, highlighting the pros and cons of each, to help you move forward with confidence.

Case 1: You’re considering a business in Japan, but have no concrete plans yet.

“I want to start a business in Japan someday, but my ideas are still pretty vague.” “I don’t have a specific plan yet, but I want to learn more about the Japanese business environment.” If this sounds like you, your best first step is to consult with IBPC Osaka, the International Business Promotion Centre Osaka. Why IBPC Osaka? Free General Consultations: Since it’s a public administrative organization, it provides free advice on general questions and consultations. This is a huge plus if you’re in the early stages and just want to explore possibilities without a specific plan. Strong Government Network: IBPC Osaka leverages its connections with government bodies to help you link up with local businesses. This is an invaluable resource for anyone wanting to understand local business dynamics. Global Network: Its partnerships with government organizations in other countries mean you can get advice from an international business perspective. Things to Keep in Mind: Limited Specific Support: As a government-affiliated center, they are great for general advice, but they may not be able to offer detailed support on specific company formation procedures or in-depth advice on your unique business plan. For Corporations Only: Their network is primarily for corporations. IBPC Osaka is the perfect starting point for gathering basic information and getting a feel for the Japanese business landscape.

Case 2: You want to understand local economies and culture with business in mind.

“I’ve traveled to Japan before, but now I want to visit for business purposes.” “I want to learn more about Japan’s regional economies and the people who drive them.” If your goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the local scene, consider talking to Japagrit, which promotes Business Inbound Tourism. Why Japagrit? Connect with Business Leaders: Based in Osaka and Kyoto, Japagrit has a strong network of local business owners and professionals. Their business inbound tours offer you the chance to meet key players in the Japanese business world face-to-face. In-depth Cultural and Economic Insight: This isn’t just regular tourism. You get a unique opportunity to understand local economies and culture from a business perspective, which can greatly enhance your understanding of the Japanese market. Focus on Osaka and Kyoto: Located in the historic and cultural heart of Japan, Japagrit provides firsthand insight into the business environment of these two major cities. Things to Keep in Mind: Not a Trade Show: This service is a “business travel service,” not a large-scale trade fair or networking event. It’s focused on building personal connections and gaining a deeper cultural understanding. Primarily Focused on Osaka and Kyoto: If your main goal is to do business in Tokyo, this service might not be the right fit for you. For those who want to immerse themselves in local culture and connect with people to get a real feel for the market before starting a business, Japagrit is a great option.

Case 3: You have a concrete plan and need hands-on support.

“I already have a detailed business plan ready to go.” “I need expert help with company formation, visa applications, and other practical steps.” When you’re ready to take concrete action, the best place to go is BSJ, Business Support in Japan. Why BSJ? One-Stop Support from Experts: BSJ brings together a team of specialists in company formation, visa applications, law, real estate, and more. This “one-stop” service allows you to handle all the necessary procedures efficiently. Nationwide Support: The experts at BSJ can support clients all over Japan, not just in their base cities of Osaka and Kyoto. Ongoing Consultation: They have connections with Japanese companies and can offer support for information gathering and day-to-day questions. Things to Keep in Mind: Limited Capacity: Since their experts are highly sought-after professionals, they might have a limited capacity to take on new clients at the same time. Restrictions on Free Consultations: Full support is a paid service, and free consultations may have time or frequency limits. For Serious Entrepreneurs: They are focused on supporting entrepreneurs who are serious about succeeding in Japan. If your plans are solidified and you’re ready to launch, getting support from a professional group like BSJ can significantly increase your chances of success. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect partner to make your business a success in Japan. We’re rooting for your journey!