Keio University—renowned for producing some of Japan’s most successful business leaders—offers the intensive course: “Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development in Japan.” Part of the Short-Term Japanese Studies (KJSP) program at the Mita Campus in Tokyo, this course is led by Professor Remy Magnier-Watanabe. It provides a deep dive into how innovation and small enterprises (SMEs) function within the world’s fourth-largest economy. You will explore the tension between Japan’s traditional corporate culture and the emerging “Startup Nation” initiative, gaining practical insights into what it takes to launch and scale a business in a market defined by high standards and unique consumer behaviors. While the university provides elite academic instruction and access to Keio’s extensive alumni network (Mita-kai), Edulux Summer manages the high-end logistics and travel services required for your stay in Tokyo.
What You’ll Learn (at Keio University)
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The Japanese Entrepreneurial Mindset: Investigating the specific qualities and cultural values (such as Monozukuri and Omotenashi) that drive successful Japanese entrepreneurs.
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Starting a Business in Japan: Mastering the step-by-step process of company formation, from legal structures and “Hanko” (seals) to navigating Japanese business etiquette and banking.
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The Role of SMEs in the Economy: Analyzing how small and medium-sized enterprises form the backbone of Japan’s supply chains, particularly in the manufacturing and service sectors.
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Innovation & “J-Startup” Initiatives: Exploring government-backed strategies aimed at fostering “Unicorn” companies and promoting international competitiveness.
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Challenges & Barriers to Entry: Investigating the unique hurdles of the Japanese market, including labor shortages, risk aversion, and the complexities of local distribution channels.
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Financing & Venture Capital: Understanding the Japanese investment landscape, from traditional bank loans to the growing presence of domestic and international VC firms.
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Marketing to the Japanese Consumer: Learning how to adapt global business models to meet the high expectations for quality and service in the Japanese domestic market.
Our Travel & Experience Services
We manage the journey and the sophisticated Tokyo lifestyle so you can focus on your entrepreneurial vision:
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Cultural & Exploration Tours: Curated excursions including a VIP tour of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, a guided walk through the “Electric City” of Akihabara (to study retail innovation), and a weekend trip to Hakone for a traditional Ryokan experience with views of Mt. Fuji.
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Ticketing & Flights: Full management of your round-trip airfare and international travel itinerary into Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) with premium private transfers to your residence.
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Guaranteed Housing: Vetted boutique living arrangements or high-end serviced apartments in Minato City, offering modern luxury and walking distance to Keio’s historic Mita Campus.
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Visa & Insurance: Professional guidance on Japanese short-term entry requirements and comprehensive travel health coverage for the duration of the program.
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Local Transfers: Seamless arrival pickup via private car and a pre-loaded Welcome Suica card for unlimited use of Tokyo’s world-class subway and JR lines.