Culture

As 3rd largest economy in the world, Japan represents a strategic interest for EU companies. The country has the second highest spending worldwide on R&D, and its companies remain amongst the most valuable and technologically advanced in the world.

Main City: Nagoya

Population: 7,484,000 people, ranking 4/47 prefectures (2015) [1]

Area: 5,153 km² [2]

Main City: Akita

Population: 945,000 people ranking 38/47 (2021)

Area:  11,638 km²

Main City: Aomori

Population: 1,221,000 people, ranking 31/47 prefectures (2021)

Area: 9,645 km²

Geographical / Landscape description

In order to successfully build a network of Japanese colleagues, proper observance of Japanese business protocol is vital, as one significant faux pas could offend your prospective business partners and cost you a lucrative business opportunity.

Main City: Chiba

Population: 6,224,000 people, ranking 6/47 prefecture (2021)

Area: 5,156.15 km²

Geographical / Landscape description

Although the Chubu area only comprises about 10% of the national area in geographical terms, it accounts for 20% of the nationwide share in shipments of manufactured goods and is a catalyst driving Japanese economy with its manufacturing base.

Traditionally, Japanese consumers have tended to be rather loyal toward brands and to value quality over mass consumption. This is especially true for older consumers in a rapidly ageing population.

— Latest update: March 2022 —

There is no precise definition of creative industries in Japan. 

Adapting your professional etiquette to the Japanese business environment may seem like a daunting task!

Main City: Matsuyama

Population: 1,386,000 people, ranking 28/47 prefecture (2015) [1]

Area: 5,676 km² [2]

Main City: Fukui

Population: 787,000 people ranking 43/47 prefecture (2015) [1]

Area: 4,188 km² [2]

Main City: Fukuoka

Population: 5,103,000 people, ranking 9/47 prefecture (2015) [1]

Area: 4,846 km² [2]

Main City: Fukushima

Population: 1,812,000 people, ranking 21/47 prefecture (2021)

Area: 13,784 km² 

Japan is quite isolated in geographical terms and, as is often the case with island countries, many of Japan’s cultural traits and its differences from overseas neighbours are attributed to this geographic isolation.

Main City: Gifu

Population:  2,033,000 people ranking 17/47 prefecture (2015) [1]

Area: 10,621 km² [2]

Main City: Maebashi

Population: 1,927,000 people ranking 18/47 prefecture (2021)

Area: 6,363 km²

Main City: Hiroshima

Population: 2,845,000 people, ranking 12/47 prefectures (2015) [1]

Area: 8,476 km² [2]