Japan: Business/trade


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Important: Be sure to check both general and product-based categories for relevant information. Product-based categories include parts and accessories unless otherwise specified. See disclaimer below and use independent care before relying on this information.

Commercial holidays

New Year's Day: January 1; January Bank holidays: January 2 and 3; Coming of Age Day/Seijin-no-hi: 2nd Monday in January; National Foundation Day/Kenkoku-kinen-no-hi: February 11; Spring Equinox/Shunbun-no-hi (varies); Showa Day/Midori-no-hi: April 29; Constitution Memorial Day/Kenpou-kinen-bi: May 3; Greenery Day: May 4; Children's Day/Kodomo-no-hi: May 5; Marine Day/Umi-no-hi (varies); Mountain Day: August 11; Respect for the Aged Day/Keirou-no-hi (varies); Autumn Equinox/Shuubun-no-hi: September 23; Sports Day: 2nd Monday in October; National Culture Day/Bunka-no-hi: November 3; Labor Thanksgiving Day/Kinrou-kansha-no-hi: November 23; Emperor's Birthday/Tennou-tanjyou-bi: December 23; December Bank Holiday: December 31.

The period from April 29 to May 5 is called the "Golden Week." The period from December 29 to January 5 is a traditional time for observance of year end and New Year holidays. Many businesses are closed for vacations and holidays during these times.

For more information on specific holidays, see Japan Public & Bank Holidays.

Public holiday celebrations may cause delays in commercial transport of goods. It is best to check with your agent in the country about the extent of business stoppage during holidays.

For information on holidays worldwide, see: Holidays and Observances around the World.

(Last updated on 2024-01-01)

Major trade agreements

For additional information on trade agreements and rules of origin see: Rules of Origin Facilitator.

(Last updated on 2023-03-24)

Other treaties/conventions

(Last updated on 2023-12-27)

Government trade information

(Last updated on 2022-07-16)

Additional trade information

Refer to updated IMF Country Report.

(Last updated on 2022-04-01)

Traveler requirements (visas, samples, etc.)

Generally, a visa is not required for visits of up to 90 days (exceptions apply, check below). Refer to overview of Japan Visa Requirements.

Check Visa Exemptions for short-term visits (applicable to 66 countries and regions).

Note: Verify visa duration limitation, which may vary according to nationality. Also, an ePassport may be required for some nationalities.

For detailed visa requirements contact:

For worldwide visa requirements see: Travel Visa Requirements.

(Last updated on 2019-08-07)

Business customs

An understanding of Japanese business and social practices is of great importance in establishing and maintaining successful business relationships. Indifference to local business practices may indicate a lack of commitment and could lead to misunderstandings on both sides. In building relationships, emphasis should be made on developing mutual trust, confidence, loyalty and commitment for the long term.

Although English is used in meetings, Western social and business norms may not apply. Using a professional interpreter is highly recommended, both for meetings and for establishing contracts. A written contract is essential to meet legal, tax, Customs and accounting requirements. Contractual commitments are perceived as representing long-term relationships.

Bilingual business cards are exchanged to formalize the introduction and establish the status of the parties relative to one another. Japanese bow when greeting each other, but expect to shake hands with foreign executives. A slight bow in acknowledgment of a Japanese bow is appreciated. Japanese executives deal on a last name basis in business relationships, and initial business and social contacts are characterized by politeness and formality.

Gift-giving is expected. Regional gifts or gifts bearing a company logo are appreciated. Quality is important, but the gift does not have to be expensive. The packaging of the gift is considered as important as the gift itself; thus, packaging should be done professionally. Sets of four are considered unlucky (the number 4 is pronounced the same as the word for death). Gifts that can be shared among a group are appropriate.

For business customs, check comments of Cultural Guide - Japan, and refer to Culture Crossing in Japan.

(Last updated on 2019-07-30)

Important: Exercise independent care before relying on information contained herein. Although we strive to ensure all information is correct and current, GISTnet assumes no liability for detrimental reliance on this information. Trade requirements may change with little or no prior notification, de-facto requirements in certain countries vary from official regulations, and particular shipments and/or importers may have special destination customs arrangements. We encourage you to check with the importer or its customs agent in the destination country for specific importation requirements for specific products and circumstances. We ask your help with feedback (cidb@gistnet.com) concerning information which may be outdated or incomplete.