Michi Tohma - OHYASHIMA

Hydrogen as Clean Energy and KHI’s Strategy

Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries is building the world’s largest commercial-scale liquefied hydrogen terminal in Kawasaki, marking a major step toward a global clean hydrogen supply chain.

2025.11.29

Technology

Industrial Zones and Regions: Japanese Elementary School Students Learn About in Textbooks 4: The Kitakyushu Industrial Zone/Region, Once One of the Four Major Industrial Zones

Once counted among Japan’s four major industrial zones, the Kitakyushu Industrial Zone flourished through steel and coal before declining amid energy transitions. This article traces its rise, stagnation, and future prospects.

2025.11.27

Business

Human Life CORD, developing umbilical cord-based therapies, raises $12 million in Series C funding

Human Life CORD has raised $12 million in Series C funding to advance its umbilical cord–derived MSC therapies, supporting preparations for a Phase III clinical trial targeting post-transplant lung complications.

2025.11.26

Technology

The Japanese government will tighten requirements for acquiring Japanese citizenship.

Japan is considering stricter requirements for acquiring citizenship, alongside new overtourism measures and potential visa fee hikes. This article explains how these policies may affect business travelers and foreign residents.

2025.11.25

Policy & Regulation

Industrial Zones and Regions Japanese Elementary School Students Learn About in Textbooks 3: Hanshin Industrial Zone

Explore the Hanshin Industrial Zone, the manufacturing hub between Osaka and Kobe. Learn how history—from the “Nation’s Kitchen” era to modern industries—shaped its diverse strengths in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and daily-use goods.

2025.11.24

Business

GramEye, a medical startup aiming to address AMR, raises ¥570 million in Series B funding.

GramEye, a Japanese medical startup addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), has raised ¥570 million in Series B funding to expand its AI-driven infectious disease diagnostics, enhance its flagship Mycrium system, and pursue FDA approval for global deployment.

2025.11.23

Technology

What the Restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant Means for Businesses

Japan moves closer to restarting the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant as Niigata’s governor signals approval. This article explains the restart process, public debate, and what the decision means for companies considering entry into Japan.

2025.11.21

Policy & Regulation

Industrial Zones and Regions Japanese Elementary School Students Learn About in Textbooks 2: Chukyo Industrial Zone

Explore Japan’s largest industrial region, the Chukyo Industrial Zone — home to Toyota, major steel producers, and world-leading ceramics firms. This article explains its key industries and historical roots.

2025.11.20

Business

Brands and companies that struggled or declined in their home markets but found success in Japan

Many global brands struggle in their home markets but thrive in Japan. This article explores how Tower Records, Hard Rock Cafe, and Tully’s Coffee found a “second home” through unique cultural and retail dynamics.

2025.11.16

Business

The Presence of Anti-Social Forces in Japan and What Companies Should Be Aware of

A practical guide for foreign companies entering Japan, explaining how the Yakuza, hangure groups, and other anti-social forces operate today, and what compliance measures businesses need to take to avoid hidden risks.

2025.11.13

Policy & Regulation