When people think of Japan, they often see it as a destination for rich culture, advanced technology, and global brands. But for entrepreneurs, Japan is increasingly a market with multiple entry points. What many first-time founders miss is this: Japan’s startup ecosystem isn’t concentrated in one place. It’s geographically layered, and each hub plays a different role in helping startups grow.
For overseas founders, choosing the right base in Japan can be the difference between early momentum and prolonged confusion. Here’s a practical map of the key places where startups are blooming across the country.
Shibuya – The Launchpad for Early-Stage Startups
Shibuya Startup Support
Shibuya is where many startup journeys begin. Known for its youthful energy and creative culture, it offers strong early-stage support, community access, and room for experimentation.
This hub is ideal for:
- First-time founders
- Idea validation and MVP testing
- Networking with other early-stage entrepreneurs
If you’re looking to explore, test, and iterate quickly, Shibuya is a natural starting point.
Otemachi – Scaling, Enterprise, and Policy Innovation
Tokyo Innovation Base
Otemachi sits at the intersection of startups, large enterprises, and the government. This area supports scale-ups and policy-facing innovation, making it a strategic location for startups ready to engage with corporations or public institutions.
Best suited for:
- B2B and enterprise startups
- Government collaboration
- Companies preparing for large-scale expansion
Otemachi is less about experimentation and more about execution at scale.
Toranomon – Japan’s Global Startup Gateway
CIC Japan
Toranomon has emerged as one of Japan’s most international startup hubs. Home to CIC Japan, it attracts global startups, venture capital firms, and cross-border collaborators.
Why founders choose Toranomon:
- Strong international founder presence
- Direct exposure to global investors
- A soft landing for overseas startups entering Japan
It’s an excellent base for companies building cross-border businesses.
Tachikawa (Tokyo Tama Area) – Regional Innovation Beyond the City Core
Startup Hub Tokyo Tama
Located outside central Tokyo, Tachikawa supports startups looking for regional innovation opportunities with lower costs and strong local backing.
This hub focuses on:
- Supporting startups beyond central Tokyo
- Community-driven growth
- Sustainable, long-term operations
It’s ideal for founders who don’t need a downtown Tokyo address to succeed.
Nagoya – Deep Tech and Industrial Partnerships
STATION Ai
Nagoya stands out for its focus on deep tech, manufacturing, and mobility. With STATION Ai, the city connects startups directly with Japan’s industrial ecosystem.
Perfect for startups in:
- Automotive and mobility tech
- Advanced manufacturing
- Robotics and industrial innovation
Nagoya offers rare direct access to real-world industrial partners.
Osaka – Scale, Diversity, and Momentum
Osaka Startup Ecosystem
Osaka’s startup ecosystem is known for its scale and diversity, spanning healthcare, fintech, biotech, and consumer innovation.
Key advantages include:
- Strong university–industry collaboration
- Growing international startup presence
- Robust support from local institutions
Osaka is a compelling alternative to Tokyo for startups aiming to grow fast.
Kyoto – Where Innovation Meets Tradition
Kyoto Startup Ecosystem
Kyoto blends world-class research with deep cultural heritage. Its startup ecosystem supports long-term, research-driven innovation.
Ideal for:
- University spin-offs
- Sustainability and impact startups
- Founders focused on depth over speed
Kyoto proves innovation doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful.
Tsukuba – Science-Backed Innovation
Tsukuba Startup Park
Tsukuba is Japan’s research capital, home to national laboratories and academic institutions. The ecosystem here supports science-backed and R&D-focused startups.
Strong focus areas include:
- AI, health tech, and materials science
- Academic spin-offs
- Research commercialization
If your startup is rooted in science, Tsukuba offers unmatched resources.
Fukuoka – Japan’s Fast-Growing Startup City
Startup City Fukuoka
Fukuoka has positioned itself as one of Japan’s most startup-friendly and multicultural cities. Known for fast decision-making and founder-focused policies, it’s gaining global attention.
Why founders love Fukuoka:
- Startup-friendly government policies
- International talent and openness
- Rapidly growing ecosystem
It’s often the easiest entry point for first-time foreign founders.
Japan Is More Than “Tokyo vs. the Rest”
Japan’s startup landscape is not a single story, it’s a network of ecosystems, each with its own strengths. For founders coming from overseas, choosing the right first base matters. The right city can accelerate partnerships, talent access, and growth. The wrong one can slow everything down.
Understanding where startups are blooming in Japan is the first step toward building something that lasts.
