Could you share your vision for the city of Fukuoka and for Fukuoka Prefecture as a global financial hub?
In Fukuoka, which is known as the gateway between Asia and is one of Japan’s leading startup cities, we aim to become an international city that continuously generates innovation by combining the region’s unique characteristics with regulatory reforms and original initiatives related to the Special Zone for Financial and Asset Management Businesses.
We aim to leverage the momentum from being selected as a special zone and accelerate efforts to attract international financial functions. This will enable growth capital from domestic and global asset management firms to flow into startups and other businesses within the region, creating added value. We are also committed to building and strengthening a virtuous cycle and ecosystem in which the reinvested capital contributes to the growth of various companies across Fukuoka and the Kyushu region.
What are the main advantages or unique characteristics of your Special Zone that contribute to its appeal?
Fukuoka is widely recognized, both domestically and internationally, as a highly livable city thanks to its compact blend of rich natural surroundings and well-developed urban functions.
It offers numerous advantages, including a large pool of talented science and engineering students, a strategic location ideal for Asia-focused business strategies, and a low risk of simultaneous disasters with the Tokyo and Kansai regions.
On the business front, one of Fukuoka’s key strengths is the personalized and swift support provided by TEAM FUKUOKA, a collaborative initiative among industry, academia, and government.
As a result, within just five years of its establishment, TEAM FUKUOKA has successfully attracted 35 companies-including domestic and international asset management firms and Fintech companies (as of June 30, 2025).
Furthermore, urban redevelopment projects, such as Tenjin Big Bang and Hakata Connected, are also underway in Fukuoka City. Combined with top-tier population growth and a high concentration of young people, Fukuoka is one of Japan’s most dynamic and energetic cities.
Could you describe the types of companies your Special Zone is currently prioritizing in its support efforts?
In Fukuoka, industries that align well with the city’s unique characteristics-particularly asset management firms and Fintech companies-congregate.
Following its designation as a Special Zone for Financial and Asset Management Businesses, Fukuoka City has relaxed requirements for investing in venture funds, leading to the entry of two asset management firms.
Leveraging its geographical advantage as a gateway between Asia, the region has also seen a notable increase in the presence of overseas companies from Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and elsewhere.
In addition, the expansion of Taiwan’s TSMC into Kumamoto has prompted Taiwanese banks to enter the market, and most recently, a major Taiwanese venture capital firm supporting investments in Japanese and Taiwanese startups has also established a presence in Fukuoka.
Asset management firms newly established in Fukuoka City: Power Angels Inc. (left) and CDIB Capital Innovation Advisors Corp. (right).
What would you like to say to businesses that are thinking about setting up operations in Japan or your Special Zone?
In Fukuoka, specialized support is available through dedicated one-stop centers to meet the needs of companies expanding into the city. For example, the Fukuoka Is Open Center offers consultations on living, employment, and visa-related matters for foreign residents and businesses. Additionally, the Global Business Support Centre provides multilingual assistance for setting up corporations and opening bank accounts, ensuring a smooth business entry process. Furthermore, Global Connect Fukuoka offers comprehensive support for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises after their entry, including funding opportunities, business matching, and assistance with international expansion.
Fukuoka combines an attractive urban environment with a robust support system, making it an ideal location for companies looking to expand. We encourage you to consider Fukuoka for your next business venture.
