Growing Coworking Spaces in Tokyo Amid Pandemic
The lounging area. A telephone booth. It is a rule to talk on the phone here so as not to distract other people. While lockers using keys are also provided, books and others are placed on shelves for common use. Electric stove The kitchen is fully equipped. It is adequate for preparing simple meals. The […]
Nurturing Japan's Next Leaders
Nurturing Japan’s Next-generation Leaders: Koken Mind Is the Essence “Life can’t be remade, but it can be restarted again and again,” Teruhisa Kitahara, at the podium, fervently asserts to his audience. Kitahara is a renowned tin toy collector who runs seven museums in Japan and also a celebrity who makes frequent TV appearances. He was […]
Japan's Recycling Technology
From Products to Products: Catch word is “Treasure Hunting” By Ryoji Shimada, staff writer “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature --- the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring […]
Tips for Business Sustainability from Japan's Longest-established Companies
Japan has the highest number of companies with longevity in the world What is "Sanpoyoshi?" In Japan, the word "akinai" has been in use from long ago. It’s usually translated into English as “business.” However, akinai has a different origin and nuance from business. According to Ohmi merchants, who lived mainly in current Ohmihachiman City […]
A Light for Opening A Future in Japan
In March of 2012, the X-ray Free Electron Laser facility SACLA capable to scope the movements of atoms inaugurated public operation at Harima Science Garden City in Hyogo Prefecture. During the first run period (March to July), 25 teams from domestic and overseas research organizations from the US, Korea and other countries have been using […]
How to Cut Cost in a Japanese Company?“ Everyone’s Participation” Is the Key
Japanese business practices are different from those of other countries. Cost cutting practices may be unique. Turning off lights during lunch break, using the back side of copy paper, reusing batteries, etc… But there's also a purpose to raise everyone's awareness. Cost-Cutting Initiative Chuck is a software engineer who works for a multinational Japanese company […]
What is Real Escape Game? Originally from Japan
Escape from Japan Going overseas with “Real Escape Game” (Dasshutsu Game 脱出ゲーム) By Ryoji Shimada, staff writer “The walls are cold concrete. The only things in the room are ordinary furnishings - desks, chairs, carpets and so on. Secret codes and mysterious items have been secreted at various places. Somehow, you have been locked up […]
Origin of Japan’s Business Philosophy: Righteous Merchants of Ohmi
The Omi merchants were merchants from Omi Province (present-day Shiga Prefecture) who were active from the Middle Ages to the modern era. They are one of the three major merchants in Japan along with the Osaka merchants and the Ise merchants. Even today, entrepreneurs from Shiga Prefecture are often referred to as Omi merchants. Normally, […]
Environmental Initiatives Are Prerequisites for Leading Companies in Japan
The Dentsu advertising agency released the results of a consumer awareness survey conducted in February. The greatest topics of social concern were “the environment,” followed by “natural catastrophes” and “the tax system.” Among environmental concerns, “global warming” was named first, followed by “environmental pollution” and “nuclear plant accident/spread of radioactive materials.” The survey showed a […]
Japan's Beauty Business
Japanese Women Are Big Consumer of Beauty Goods Japanese women are well-known to have perhaps the most excessive relationship with beauty items. According to different studies they are the world’s per capita largest spenders on beauty goods. They carry more items in their bags and purses than any other woman. Their routines are the most […]