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Entering Japan through major EC platforms like Amazon or Rakuten can be effective, but it often requires significant investment, operational readiness, and a broad product catalog. For many overseas brands, a more practical first step is testing the Japanese market with small‑scale, low‑risk platforms . This guide introduces lightweight EC options, crowdfunding platforms, and partner‑supported channels that allow overseas brands to validate demand before committing to full‑sc

Japan’s e‑commerce ecosystem is diverse, highly structured, and platform‑specific. For overseas brands, the biggest challenge is understanding which platforms allow foreign sellers , what operational requirements exist , and how much it costs to run a store . This guide provides a clear, structured overview of Japan’s major EC platforms, including accessibility, SKU expectations, and typical fee structures. Platform Accessibility Overview • Direct Overseas Selling Possible Yo

When people outside Japan think of Japanese noodles, ramen is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Its bold flavors and global popularity have made it a star. Tenpura Udon at Kanekohanosuke But Japan’s noodle culture is much richer than ramen alone. Among its many varieties, udon stands out for its simplicity, warmth, and deep connection to regional traditions. To appreciate udon fully, it helps to understand how it differs from two other famous Japanese noodles: ram

Kurizuki: A Taste of Kumamoto’s Quiet Elegance Across Japan, every region has its own distinctive food culture; shaped by local climate, ingredients, and generations of craftsmanship. Even within the world of wagashi, these sweets are far more than simple treats; they are small stories that speak of the land where they were born. In this article, I would like to introduce Kurizuki, a confection from Kumamoto that I first encountered in 2025. This sweet played a defining rol

A practical, category-by-category overview for American buyers Introduction: Why Importing products from Japan Feels Complicated Japan is known for high-quality products, exceptional craftsmanship, and reliable manufacturing. But for many U.S. companies, sourcing from Japan feels intimidating because: Regulations differ by product category Multiple U.S. agencies may be involved (FDA, USDA, CPSC, FCC, CBP) Documentation requirements are strict Japanese suppliers often lack exp

Matcha has taken over the world: lattes, desserts, skincare, you name it. But Japan has so much more to offer than just its famous green tea powder. If you look a little closer, there are small, beautifully crafted items that quietly shape everyday life in Japan. And I believe these are the next things global audiences will fall in love with. Today, I’m sharing four Japanese items I’m personally excited about. They’re practical, lightweight, culturally rich, and surprisingly

Japanese products already have strong demand in the World, especially in the US and Europe. From matcha and snacks to stationery, kitchenware, and beauty items, consumers consistently associate Japan with quality, design, and trust. But here’s the problem: sourcing Japanese products inside the U.S. and Europe is expensive, unreliable, and often not truly “Japanese.” If you want better margins, guaranteed authenticity, and access to unique products your competitors don’t have,

Japan is admired worldwide for its craftsmanship, product quality, and attention to detail. For overseas companies, importing Japanese products can be a powerful way to differentiate their assortment and offer something truly unique. But once companies begin the process, they quickly discover something unexpected: Importing from Japan is not straightforward. Not because the products are hard to find. But because the information, communication style, and business culture behin