For decades, Japan has been a symbol of technological innovation and now is the golden opportunity to explore its vibrant tech landscape. This comprehensive guide is designed to cater to foreign investors scouting for lucrative opportunities, global tech professionals eyeing unique collaborations or curious minds like you. We will provide an insightful list of the sector-specific leaders in software, health tech, mobility tech, fintech, HR software, and IoT– your one-stop source to decode the fascinating, fast-paced world of Japanese tech companies.
Table of Contents
Major Software Companies
The upcoming list showcases major Japanese software companies that are not just business entities, but significant pillars supporting global technology advancement. Their transformative work, products, and services have an impact on the international tech landscape, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Fujitsu
Since its establishment in 1935, Fujitsu has become a key player among Japanese tech companies, continually innovating and demonstrating technological brilliance. As a leading partner in digital transformation, Fujitsu offers a vast range of trusted tech services, products, and co-created solutions that drive enterprise-wide digitalization. Recently, this commitment to innovation was recognized when Fujitsu won the 2023 Microsoft Japan Healthcare Life Sciences Partner of the Year for its cloud-based solutions. This goes to show that Fujitsu’s work isn’t just about technology, they’re also actively involved in social issues, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to cultivate a more inclusive, sustainable, and trustworthy society.
- Cybozu
Established in 1997, Cybozu is a standout among Japanese tech companies known for its versatile software solutions and commitment to transforming work dynamics. Their flagship product, Kintone, is a cloud-based business application platform that enables organizations to create custom applications without coding. With an intuitive interface and powerful functionality, Kintone streamlines workflows and efficiently manages data. Cybozu Office also enhances communication, collaboration, and information sharing, maximizing productivity and efficiency. Their range of products, including team collaboration and project management tools, boost productivity and foster innovation in various work settings.
- UZABASE
UZABASE has been redefining the landscape of business intelligence with its innovative platform, SPEEDA since it was launched in 2009. By seamlessly integrating AI technology and human curation, UZABASE delivers accurate and actionable insights to help businesses make informed decisions. Their recent partnership with Financial Times Group to launch the “FT China Conference by SPEEDA” showcases their commitment to global collaboration and expanding their reach. As a frontrunner among Japanese tech companies, UZABASE continues to drive innovation and shape the future of business intelligence.
For more information about B2B Saas products, check out our podcast about how to conduct Marketing and Sales for B2B SAAS Products with Evan Burkosk and discover how it aligns with global technology advancement.
Health Tech
Japan is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. The list below will delve into the game-changing contributions of five Japanese tech companies, each merging technology with health to redefine the medical landscape.
- Rakuten Medical
Rakuten Medical, founded in 2010, quickly rose to prominence among Japanese tech companies in health, making significant strides in the field of biotechnology. Leveraging its Alluminox™ technology, the company is making headway in cancer treatments. In fact, promising results were revealed for the ASP-1929 Photoimmunotherapy in treating head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Rakuten Medical continues to revolutionize the healthcare sector, standing as a testament to the transformative power of Japanese tech companies. This innovation-driven decade in the market underlines the potential of tech-infused medical research to revolutionize treatments and improve patient outcomes.
- AI Medical Service
AI Medical Service has been pioneering the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for the early detection of gastric cancer since 2017. As one of the most innovative Japanese tech companies, it is transforming endoscopic examinations with its AI-empowered solutions. SoftBank, a prominent investor, backed this ground-breaking initiative in recognition of its potential to revolutionize healthcare. AI Medical Service’s technology has not only enhanced the accuracy of cancer diagnosis but also reduced the burden on medical practitioners by automating a part of the detection process.
- CureApp
CureApp, established in 2014, is an innovator in the digital therapeutics field that develops unique medical apps designed to pioneer new avenues of personalized treatment. This company stands among other leading Japanese tech companies in health that are leveraging technology to revolutionize patient care. In 2022, CureApp made a significant breakthrough when its digital therapeutic app for hypertension received insurance coverage. This achievement, which allowed the sales of their service to medical institutions across Japan, underscores the company’s role in integrating technology with healthcare.
- Ubie
Founded in 2015, Ubie has been at the forefront of AI-powered medical solutions aimed at optimizing patient care. This healthcare technology firm is known for developing streamlined healthcare applications. In a major development in 2023, Ubie partnered with Google’s Android platform Health Connect Beta, solidifying its status as a launch partner in Japan. This collaboration further elevates Ubie’s standing in healthcare technology, highlighting the crucial role Japanese tech companies play in shaping health tech advancements globally.
- Heartseed
Heartseed, a bio venture established in 2015, is focused on the development and commercialization of iPSC-derived regenerative medicine for heart failure. This firm is an impressive example of Japanese tech companies using biotechnology to revolutionize healthcare. In 2023, Heartseed raised 2 billion JPY in a Series D funding round, demonstrating the industry’s confidence in its groundbreaking approach. The funding is set to accelerate the development of their pioneering iPSC-derived stem cell therapy, which could potentially transform treatment methodologies for heart failure.
Struggling to scale your business in Japan?
Mobility Tech
This section will highlight notable Japanese tech companies that are revolutionizing the mobility sector and mention their innovative contributions toward enhancing transportation efficiency and sustainability.
- Luup
Luup, a Japanese tech company in mobility, has been transforming transportation in Japan with shared micro-mobility services since 2018. Beyond the traditional e-scooters that you might have spotted around the city, Luup offers a diverse range of micro vehicles, including four-wheel e-scooters and senior cars, catering to various mobility needs. With a strong focus on collaboration and partnership with local communities and governments, Luup ensures tailored services for each operational city. The company recently raised $68 million in funding to advance its mission of revolutionizing transportation through innovative electric scooter solutions.
- PJP Eye
Established in 2017, PJP Eye is a leading Japanese tech company specializing in battery cell, module, and pack manufacturing. Their patented organic plant material electrode structure enables rapid charging, eliminates thermal runaway risk, and offers an impressive lifespan of 8,000+ cycles. With their nature-based Cambrian™ carbon batteries, PJP Eye has made a significant impact in global energy storage applications. Their recent selection for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Greentech Startup Support Program highlights their rapid growth and recognition in both domestic and international markets.
- Mirai Share
Mirai Share has been revolutionizing transportation with car-sharing, ride-sharing, and AI-demand taxi services since 2016. This year, they renewed the AI demand taxi service in Chichibu City and Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture, introducing the advanced SAVS system and “Ai AI Taxi” (あいAIタクシー). SAVS optimizes routes and communicates with smart devices, ensuring efficient and convenient transportation. Mirai Share’s commitment to enhancing mobility through cutting-edge technology makes it one of the most iconic Japanese tech companies in mobility.
Fintech
Japan’s fintech sector has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by the rise of mobile payment services and digital banking solutions. In this section, we will talk about some of the prominent Japanese tech companies leading the way in revolutionizing the country’s financial landscape.
- Paypay
PayPay, a leading mobile payment service in Japan, has quickly gained popularity among users, solidifying its position among prominent Japanese tech companies. With a user-friendly interface and innovative marketing strategies like generous cashback rewards, PayPay has attracted millions of users. The company has recently applied to enter the digital salary payment business, aligning with the government’s push for cashless payments and showcasing its commitment to financial convenience and technological advancement.
- MoneyForward and Freee
MoneyForward and Freee, both founded in 2012, are prominent fintech companies that offer innovative financial solutions to businesses. MoneyForward’s “XIM-Contents” helps financial institutions propose personalized financial products, while Freee’s accounting software streamlines financial management for businesses. These companies empower businesses to enhance their offerings, optimize financial operations, and drive efficiency. As leaders in the industry, MoneyForward and Freee exemplify the transformative impact of Japanese tech companies in the financial sector.
- Kyash
Kyash, a leading fintech platform among Japanese tech companies, was founded in 2015 in Tokyo with a mission to revolutionize the financial landscape in Japan through its digital wallet app powered by full-stack banking technology. By offering mobile payment and banking services to consumers and a financial platform to businesses, Kyash aims to create the next-generation infrastructure for money exchange. Despite the challenging investment climate during the pandemic, Kyash successfully raised funds, demonstrating its resilience and investor confidence in its innovative solutions.
Get expert insights on e-commerce trends, payment systems, and consumer behavior in Japan from the episode E-commerce in Japan with Arisa Ueno. Also, check out our episodes on finance for more finance-related topics. By listening to these episodes, you’ll gain actionable insights to navigate the dynamic fintech landscape in Japan, covering topics such as e-commerce, payment systems, consumer behavior, and finance trends.
HR Software
In the realm of Japanese tech companies, the human resources (HR) sector has witnessed remarkable advancements, with innovative software solutions revolutionizing HR management practices. The upcoming list highlights some of the top HR software companies in Japan.
- SmartHR
Established in 2013, SmartHR is one of the leading Japanese tech companies specializing in HR cloud software. Their innovative solutions focus on labor management, employee administration, and productivity enhancement. Through their platform, businesses can seamlessly digitize HR processes, including year-end tax adjustments, employment contracts, and employee data management. SmartHR’s recent launch of the online community “PARK” demonstrates its dedication to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among users, solidifying its position as a progressive force in the Japanese HR industry.
- ZooKeep
ZooKeep, a relatively new company established in 2021, is revolutionizing talent acquisition in Japan and the ASEAN markets through a powerful combination of cutting-edge technology and tailored consulting services. With a mission to simplify, modernize, and optimize hiring processes, ZooKeep’s remarkably diverse team brings a deep understanding of global recruitment practices and the local landscape. Their recent addition of three key members to the Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy team positions them for rapid expansion in Japan and APAC, leveraging their success with the Recruitment Tracking System (ATS) among other Japanese tech companies.
- Attuned
Attuned, another leading player in the realm of Japanese tech companies, is revolutionizing work cultures through its science-backed data and AI solutions. It was created by a group of psychologists with the aim of assessing 11 key motivational factors using a comprehensive 55-question survey. This information serves as the foundation for a set of readily available insights, personalized actions, and gentle prompts that assist managers in improving communication and eliminating the uncertainty associated with effectively motivating individuals and teams. Attuned helps companies create happier and more productive workplaces.
If you’re looking to effectively utilize the various HR software available in Japan, we have a podcast series that can help you navigate the HR aspect of your business. Watch Japanese Business Culture with Rochelle Kopp to gain insights into Japanese business culture and HR Explained with Rina Sakuraba to learn about HR practices specific to Japan. You can also explore strategies for scaling your company’s workforce while effectively integrating HR software solutions from How to Grow from 1-10 Employees with Nathan Hoernig.
IoT
IoT technology has gained significant traction in Japan, driving innovation and transforming industries. Below is a list of some Japanese tech companies that are shaping the future of IoT and driving advancements in this dynamic field.
- Mitsufuji
Mitsufuji, a leading Japanese tech company specializing in IoT solutions, has been at the forefront of innovation with its cutting-edge technologies. With a strong focus on wearable technology and smart textiles, Mitsufuji has revolutionized the way we interact with our surroundings. Through its innovative products, such as its groundbreaking wearable sensors, the company has enabled seamless integration of technology into various aspects of daily life. Mitsufuji’s commitment to research and development has propelled them to the forefront of the IoT industry, earning them a prominent position among Japanese tech companies.
- Optex
Optex, founded in 1979, is a company at the forefront of IoT device development. With a focus on creating innovative solutions for a wide range of applications, Optex offers cutting-edge IoT devices that contribute to enhanced security and efficiency. A unique insight about the company is its specialization in factory automation, positioning Optex as the go-to partner for optimizing manufacturing processes. As one of the pioneering Japanese tech companies, Optex continues to drive advancements in IoT technology and contribute to the digital transformation of industries.
- Hitachi
Hitachi’s Smart IoT offerings empower industries with connectivity, automation, and data-driven insights. From smart cities to industrial automation, their IoT solutions drive efficiency and sustainability. With expertise in sensors, data analytics, cloud platforms, and AI, Hitachi is driving innovation and shaping the future of IoT technology. As a trailblazer in the industry, Hitachi is committed to creating a safer, smarter, and more sustainable world alongside other Japanese tech companies.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to enter the Japanese tech market and engage with Japanese tech companies, our resource on Tech Market Entry in Japan with John Kirch is a must-watch.
Japan’s vibrant tech landscape offers abundant opportunities for foreign investors, global tech professionals, and business owners. From software development to health tech, mobility tech, fintech, HR software, and IoT, Japanese tech companies are leading the way in innovation. At Scaling Your Company, we provide valuable insights and resources to help you navigate the Japanese market and connect with Japanese tech companies. Explore more of our resources and unlock the potential of the Japanese tech market today.
If you’re interested in connecting with Japanese tech companies and need expert referrals, we’re here to assist. Connect with us through our contact form to access personalized recommendations and guidance. Navigating the landscape of Japanese tech companies starts with the right connections – let us help you make valuable industry contacts.
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