Tokyo startup ecosystem guide for founders

A foreign founder and Japanese business partner reviewing plans in a Tokyo startup office

Tokyo’s startup ecosystem is growing fast, and foreign founders now have more structured support than ever before. From expanded visa programs to world-class accelerators, the city offers a clear path for international entrepreneurs. This guide explains what has changed and how to enter the market with confidence.

Konbini culture and the 24-hour supply chain

A konbini culture worker restocking fresh food shelves inside a brightly lit Tokyo convenience store at night

Konbini culture is not simply about convenience. It is a living demonstration of how Japan engineered one of the most precise retail supply chains on Earth. From temperature-controlled trucks to real-time demand forecasting, Tokyo’s corner stores run 24 hours because the system behind them never stops working.

Co-working desk in Shibuya: first steps

A foreign professional secures a co-working desk in a modern Shibuya shared office space

Leasing a co-working desk in Shibuya is one of the most practical first steps a foreign professional can take in Tokyo. This guide explains the documents you need, the membership types available, and how to avoid the Japanese guarantor requirement entirely. Follow these steps and you can be working from Shibuya within days.