Michi Tohma - OHYASHIMA

Akari Aims to Develop Embodied AI, Raises $33 Million | A Startup Founded by Alumni of the University of Tokyo’s Matsuo Lab

Japanese startup Akari has raised $33 million as it pursues the development of embodied and physical AI, while currently generating revenue through industry-focused AI agents for digital transformation.

2026.01.30

Technology

Japanese Chemical Makers to End Ethylene Production at the Mizushima Complex

Japan’s major chemical makers Asahi Kasei, Mitsui Chemicals, and Mitsubishi Chemical plan to halt ethylene production at the Mizushima complex and consolidate operations in Osaka, reflecting both decarbonization efforts and industry restructuring.

2026.01.29

Business

What Do Japanese Entrepreneurs Mean by “Dorokusai”?

Why do Japanese entrepreneurs often describe their work as “dorokusai”? This column explores the cultural meaning behind the term and what it reveals about Japan’s startup mindset and business environment.

2026.01.28

Opinion / Column

All LOTTERIA Stores to Be Rebranded as “ZETTERIA”

ZENSHO plans to rebrand all LOTTERIA stores in Japan as ZETTERIA. This article explains the background, market context, and what the move signals for Japan’s fast-food industry.

2026.01.27

Business

“Intelligence Activities by Foreign Intelligence Activities in Japan” That Companies Considering Entry into Japan Should Keep in Mind

Japan’s Metropolitan Police Department has exposed a suspected case of foreign intelligence-linked information leakage. This article explains the espionage risks companies and staff in Japan should be aware of.

2026.01.21

Policy & Regulation

Synflux Raises $1.7 Million to Develop a System That Reduces Material Waste in Apparel Production

Synflux has raised $1.7 million to scale Algorithmic Couture, an AI-driven apparel design system that reduces fabric waste from 15–30% to around 3–5%, supporting global expansion across OEM and ODM supply chains.

2026.01.19

Technology

Sukidayo Raises $535,000 in Seed Funding

Sukidayo has raised ¥85 million (about $535,000) in seed funding to expand its couples-focused apps, Riamo and Futari Kaigi, and accelerate AI-driven relationship support.

2026.01.15

Technology

Japan Moves to Introduce “Record Performance and Communication Rights” into Copyright Law

Japan is moving to introduce record performance and communication rights into its copyright law, reshaping how Japanese music used as background music is licensed and monetized worldwide.

2026.01.12

Policy & Regulation

Former Itochu Chairman Uichiro Niwa Has Passed Away: The “Heart” of the Man I Saw

Former Itochu chairman Uichiro Niwa has passed away. The author reflects on Niwa’s career as a business leader and ambassador to China, and on the “heart” he revealed in a rare personal interview.

2026.01.09

Business

Rakuten Medical Raises $100 Million in Series F Funding

Rakuten Medical has raised $100 million in Series F funding to advance its photoimmunotherapy program and prepare for regulatory approval in the United States by 2028.

2026.01.08

Technology