This blog post was updated on 12 August 2024.
The Japanese market is large and wealthy, making it very attractive to businesses wanting to expand internationally.
However, the digital landscape of Japan is unique, with its own local platforms and a distinct set of online (and offline) behaviours.
Unique countries require unique strategies, which can make Japan a challenging market for brands to successfully enter.
Never fear, I have put together an in-depth guide that explains the key things to consider for a successful digital marketing strategy in Japan.
Let’s look at three tips for digital marketing in Japan!
1. Include both Google and Yahoo Japan in your search engine marketing efforts
Unlike most other countries in the world, where Google reigns supreme, in Japan, there is another big player in the market: Yahoo Japan. Most Japanese internet users use both search engines frequently, so it is important to include both Google and Yahoo Japan in your search engine marketing efforts. Although your SEO strategy will not need to differ (since Yahoo Japan’s searches are powered by Google), you will need to learn how to run advertising campaigns on both search engines.
2. Be on Line, the number one social platform in Japan
Line is the most popular social media platform in Japan, being used by 83% of Japanese internet users every month. It started off as a messaging app similar to WhatsApp, but has since diversified its offerings to include a mobile payments system, news, music streaming, manga and more. It is the main communication tool for many families, as it is popular across generations and genders. Line allows businesses to open an official account to advertise on the platform, with several different types of ads being available to advertisers. It is well worth considering doing this when targeting the Japanese market.
3. Consider selling your products on Amazon and Rakuten
When you think of e-commerce in the West, your mind probably goes straight to Amazon and may not even consider any alternatives. But in Japan, whilst Amazon is the most popular e-commerce platform, local player Rakuten also has significant popularity. You may want to consider selling on both platforms, since that would enable you to reach a wider percentage of your audience.
Want to learn more?
I hope this blog post has given you a useful introduction to digital marketing in Japan. For more in-depth information, read the full-length guide here. The guide covers:
- the current digital landscape in the country, including internet penetration rates
- the typical Japanese internet user, including their gender, age and online activities
- device usage breakdowns and internet speeds in Japan
- search engine marketing in Japan
- how to localise your website for Japan
- social media marketing in Japan
- the local culture and language in Japan
- e-commerce in Japan
César Gonçalves
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