A city where ancient temples stand alongside glass skyscrapers, and centuries-old craftsmanship powers next-generation technology, Tokyo is rewriting what it means to be a global business hub.
Already ranked among the top three cities in the world for R&D and business activity, Tokyo is both a mature megacity and a fertile ground for bold ideas. With a GDP valued at $728.8 billion, and home to over 14 million residents, it’s a place where opportunity meets scale.
Now, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) is making it easier than ever for foreign entrepreneurs and companies to plant their flag in this dynamic metropolis.
Through its support, TMG offers a variety of free, bilingual support services that guide companies from first inquiry to full market entry, streamlining every step, from visas and banking to office space and client introductions.
TMG will provide support for companies from all over the world to expand their business in Tokyo.
Market made smooth
For foreign companies who are considering establishing in or expanding to Tokyo, the Business Development Center Tokyo (BDCT) is a one-stop partner. Its bilingual consultants provide tailored guidance, whether you’re navigating incorporation procedures, seeking legal or tax experts, or exploring business matching opportunities.
In addition, the Tokyo One-Stop Business Establishment Center unifies the procedures that foreign companies and start-ups need to complete to establish a business. Through personalized service provided by staff knowledgeable in administrative procedures and experts, the center helps to facilitate the prompt completion of various filing procedures required when starting a business, including those for company registration, taxes, social security and immigration free of charge, and as many times as needed.
TMG also operates Access to Tokyo (A2T), with offices in global cities such as San Francisco, offering market analysis, entry strategies, recruitment assistance and introductions to potential partners even before you arrive in Japan.
For companies in finance, green transformation (GX), or other strategic sectors, dedicated programs provide subsidies, temporary office space and business development support.
Opening doors for global innovators
TMG’s commitment to support business expansion is evident in cases such as Great Wave Ventures. Founded by Nobu Iguchi in the United States, the venture capital firm invests in urban development and architecture startups and recently expanded into Japan with the help of BDCT.
“The process in Japan required extensive reviews, particularly for banking,” Iguchi explains. BDCT’s guidance on incorporation, legal, and financial matters streamlined their market entry, while bilingual support eased communication with local partners and facilitated recruitment for their new Tokyo-based team.
Expanding his business into Tokyo, Iguchi is upbeat about his company’s, and the city’s, prospects. He adds: “Japan has many large companies with the power to innovate. While the number of startups is lower than in the U.S., opportunities for innovation here are significant.”
Tokyo’s competitive edge
Tokyo’s business environment offers a unique balance: the stability and infrastructure of a mature global city, combined with an innovation culture that constantly reinvents itself. Its ranking as Asia’s number one city in TripAdvisor’s World City Survey reflects not just its appeal to visitors, but also its quality of life for residents.
Cost of living is often assumed to be prohibitively high, yet Tokyo ranks 13th among global cities, more affordable than Singapore or Hong Kong.
Add to that a safe, well-connected transportation system, an unmatched culinary scene (Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city), and world-class healthcare and education, and it’s easy to see why global talent seeks the metropolis as their base.
Lower barriers, faster start
TMG is also tackling one of the most common hurdles for foreign entrepreneurs: bureaucracy. With the Startup Visa, for instance, up to two years status of residence can be granted if the TMG approves the business plan and other details before the Immigration Bureau examines applicants upon entry. Foreign nationals who plan to establish a business can conduct preparatory activities for starting a business after entering Japan.
Programs like J-Skip (for highly skilled professionals) and J-Find (for graduates of top global universities) further streamline residency options for those looking to launch or join businesses in Japan.
These measures are complemented by a growing network of innovation hubs and events. The Tokyo Innovation Base, for example, offers a gathering point for startups, investors and corporates, while SusHi Tech Tokyo, one of Asia’s leading startup events, recently welcomed over 57,000 participants from around the globe.
An inspiring city you can call home
Business aside, Tokyo is an easy city to call home. Mornings may start with a quiet walk under cherry blossoms in Shinjuku Gyoen, followed by client meetings in Marunouchi, and an evening exploring the vibrant streets of Shibuya or a serene neighborhood izakaya or eatery.
Whether you’re drawn to Harajuku’s cutting-edge fashion or Akihabara’s tech culture, the city’s diversity ensures there’s a space for every lifestyle.
Thus, Tokyo is not just a destination; it’s a platform for global growth. Whether you’re a startup founder with a disruptive idea, a growing company looking for your next market, or an innovator seeking a base in Asia’s most connected city, Tokyo offers the ecosystem, infrastructure and lifestyle to make it happen.
As Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike says: “In Tokyo, tradition supports transformation. We welcome you to join this megapolis, where ideas are born, cultures merge and futures are created.”
If you’re interested or would like to know further information, please check the links below to see the help TMG offers.
■ Social Media
■ Website
To learn about the support TMG offers, click here.
AloJapan.com