Japan has emerged as a strategic hub for cryptocurrency companies, offering favorable exchange rates, streamlined work visas, and pathways to permanent residency. As Tokyo and Osaka gain status as financial special zones in 2024, global crypto teams are increasingly establishing operations in Japan. Here’s an in-depth analysis of major players shaping Japan’s crypto ecosystem.
Tier 1: Enterprise-Level Teams (100+ Employees)
Binance Japan
After acquiring SEBC (a licensed Japanese exchange) in 2022, Binance rebranded it as Binance Japan in 2023. Partnering with Mitsubishi UFJ Trust Bank, the exchange plans to launch a JPY-pegged stablecoin. Its Tokyo office expanded significantly amid Singaporean visa restrictions and U.S. regulatory pressures.
Key Services: Trading, stablecoin development
Keyword: Binance Japan, JPY stablecoin, Tokyo crypto hub
BitFlyer
This major Japanese exchange counts Mitsubishi UFJ and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp among its investors. BitFlyer acquired FTX’s defunct Japanese subsidiary in 2024, reinforcing its domestic dominance while eyeing global growth.
Key Services: Exchange, liquidity provision
Keyword: BitFlyer, FTX Japan acquisition
Coincheck
A high-frequency listing platform, Coincheck collaborates with Animoca Brands and Circle. It announced plans for a Nasdaq SPAC listing in May 2024.
Key Services: Token listings, institutional partnerships
Keyword: Coincheck, Animoca Brands
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Tier 2: Mid-Sized Teams (10–99 Employees)
Cardano (ADA)
Japan’s highest-market-cap project, Cardano, maintains active operations with regular meetups. Its ADA token remains popular among Japanese investors.
Keyword: Cardano Japan, ADA token
Backpack
Supported by Multicoin and Solana Foundation, Backpack’s Tokyo team focuses on wallet and exchange development.
Keyword: Backpack wallet, Solana ecosystem
Oasys & AStar
Oasys partners with Japanese gaming studios for NFT integration, while AStar pivots to zkEVM after securing Sony’s accelerator program.
Keyword: Oasys gaming, AStar zkEVM
Tier 3: Boutique Teams (Under 10 Employees)
Skyland Ventures
Japan’s largest registered crypto fund, Skyland backs Taiko, Merlin, and Bitlayer—showcasing strong ties to Asian projects.
Keyword: Skyland Ventures, Taiko
Azuki
The NFT giant operates a Tokyo design studio, driving local engagement for its blue-chip collections.
Keyword: Azuki NFT, Japan design
Mask Network
A pioneer in Japan’s Web3 space, Mask sponsors major conferences and employs local KOLs like 0xCryptoBaby.
Keyword: Mask Network, Japan Web3
FAQs
Q: Which Japanese crypto companies accept foreign clients?
A: Bitbank supports English/Chinese onboarding, while Binance Japan serves global users via its licensed platform.
Q: Are there Japanese stablecoins?
A: Binance Japan and Mitsubishi UFJ plan a JPY stablecoin; SBI Crypto also explores mining-backed tokens.
Q: What’s the investment trend in Japan’s crypto sector?
A: Gaming (Oasys), DePIN (Jasmy), and zkEVM (AStar) dominate 2024’s funding focus.
👉 Discover Japan’s crypto regulations