Mopinica - Beta

 As of 2025, the Japanese startup ecosystem is seeing increased attention in business media around funding strategies and growth models. Here are the key topics: 1. Growing Investment in Deep Tech Startups Startups with advanced technologies are attracting large-scale investments from both domestic and international investors. ArkEdge Space : A University of Tokyo spin-off developing ultra-compact satellites, raised ¥8 billion in its Series B round. Encoat Technologies : A startup working on perovskite solar cells, raised ¥6.3 billion in its Series C round. These cases highlight the growing investor interest in the deep tech sector. 2. Fostering Unicorns with Government Support The Japanese government has declared a “Startup Creation Year” and aims to nurture 100 unicorns over the next five years. As of 2025, there are around eight unicorns in Japan. However, this number is expected to grow thanks to government initiatives. 3. IPO Market Trends and Diversifying ...

 What kinds of services and products are currently drawing attention in Japan’s HealthTech space? Here are three notable examples gaining traction: ① AI Medical Service (AI-Powered Endoscopic Diagnostic Support) Overview : This technology uses AI to automatically detect gastric and esophageal cancers from endoscopic images. Why It’s Gaining Attention : By supporting physicians in diagnostics, it helps with early cancer detection and reduces the risk of missed diagnoses. Current Use : Implementation is expanding, particularly in university hospitals, with international expansion also underway. ② FiNC (AI-Based Personal Health Management App) Overview : The app analyzes data related to diet, exercise, and sleep using AI to provide personalized health advice. Why It’s Gaining Attention : It aligns well with the growing focus on preventive care and overall wellbeing. Notable Features : Increasing adoption as part of corporate wellness programs and partnerships with insuran...

 Major American entertainment events like the Super Bowl and the 2025 box office hits are also generating buzz within Japan’s entertainment industry. What exactly is being talked about? 1. Super Bowl 59 Halftime Show and Commercials Spark Discussion At Super Bowl 59, held in February 2025, Kendrick Lamar performed during the halftime show, drawing attention even among Japanese music fans. The commercials also gained traction in Japan, particularly those featuring innovative AI-driven elements and humorous celebrity appearances by the likes of Matthew McConaughey. These ads have stirred interest in Japan’s advertising industry as well. 2. “Doraemon: Nobita’s Picture Book Adventure” Tops the Box Office for 6 Consecutive Weeks Distributed by Toho, Doraemon: Nobita’s Picture Book Adventure held the number one spot in Japan’s weekend box office rankings for six consecutive weeks, surpassing 4 billion yen in total revenue. This achievement has once again highlighted the strength ...

 In Japan, corporate sustainability management and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investment are increasingly being recognized as vital long-term strategies focused on environmental responsibility and social contribution. Below are three companies whose efforts are particularly noteworthy. 1. Eisai Co., Ltd.: Highly Rated in Global Sustainability Rankings Eisai ranked 35th in the 2025 edition of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World , published by a Canadian research firm—placing it as the highest-ranked Japanese company. Eisai is committed to creating social value by improving access to medicines and addressing global health challenges. 2. Kao Corporation: Promoting ESG Management through the “Kirei Lifestyle Plan” As part of its ESG management, Kao has launched the “Kirei Lifestyle Plan,” aiming to reduce environmental impact and address societal issues. The company is working to minimize the environmental footprint throughout its product lif...

  In recent years, traditional Japanese performing arts, such as Noh and Kabuki, have incorporated modern approaches and are experiencing new developments. Here are three particularly noteworthy examples. 1. "Super Kabuki": Collaboration with Hatsune Miku "Super Kabuki," which fuses traditional Kabuki with the virtual idol Hatsune Miku, has been attracting a new audience, especially among younger generations. In performances at the Kabuki-za theater in Tokyo, contemporary elements like pop music, neon lights, and glow sticks have been incorporated, creating a production style distinct from traditional Kabuki.  2. Reinterpretation of Traditional Performing Arts through Anime and Dramas Anime and dramas such as Shōwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjū and Kabukibu! have been produced, conveying the appeal of Rakugo and Kabuki to younger audiences. These works reconstruct the world of traditional performing arts with modern storytelling and visuals, successfully attracting ...

  Overview In Japan, the term “Customer Harassment” (カスハラ, Kasuhara) has been coined to describe excessive customer demands, and social awareness about this issue is rising. In the retail and service industries, there has been growing discussion on rethinking the "customer-first" approach and various measures to protect employees. Here are three representative discussions on this topic: ① Breaking Away from "The Customer is Always Right" and Shifting Values Revising the traditional value of "the customer is always right" and shifting toward a mindset that promotes equal relationships between employees and customers . It is essential to create an environment where employees can respond firmly to excessive demands and verbal abuse. ② Clear Distinction Between Manual Guidelines and On-Site Judgment Establishing behavioral standards and guidelines to help on-site staff determine "how far they should go" in their responses. More ...