Japan has emerged as a significant hub for cryptocurrency companies seeking a stable and supportive environment for global operations. With favorable exchange rates, relatively straightforward work visa processes, and accessible permanent residency pathways, many crypto projects and exchanges have established offices in Japan over the past year. Additionally, key cities like Tokyo and Osaka are now designated as special financial zones, further enhancing the appeal for international crypto businesses.
This article provides an overview of notable crypto companies based in Japan, covering their scale, core activities, and contributions to the global digital asset ecosystem.
Large-Scale Enterprises (100+ Employees)
Binance Japan
After acquiring the licensed Japanese exchange SEBC in 2022, Binance rebranded it as Binance Japan in late 2023. The platform has since launched fully compliant services in the region. A significant partnership with Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation aims to introduce a JPY-backed stablecoin. Due to regulatory changes in Singapore and the US, many Binance employees relocated to the Tokyo office, leading to considerable expansion.
BitFlyer
As one of Japan’s leading licensed exchanges, BitFlyer counts major financial institutions like Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and Mitsubishi UFJ among its early investors. The firm recently acquired the Japanese subsidiary of the bankrupt FTX, strengthening its domestic presence while continuing to explore international growth.
Coincheck
A major Japanese exchange known for its frequent token listings, Coincheck has collaborated with entities like Animoca Brands and Circle. In May 2024, the company announced plans to go public on Nasdaq via a SPAC merger.
Bitbank
This exchange supports account registration for overseas corporate clients and offers customer support in both English and Chinese. In 2022, Bitbank invested in the gaming blockchain Oasys and partnered with Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank.
SBI Crypto
A subsidiary of the financial giant SBI Group, SBI Crypto has expanded through acquisitions and mergers within the crypto sector. It operates mining pools for Bitcoin and Litecoin and employs a diverse team from various countries, including China, the US, and Australia.
Mid-Size Teams (Tens of Employees)
Cardano
Cardano stands as one of the highest market cap projects founded by a team based in Japan. Its native token, ADA, is often regarded as the "Japanese Ethereum." The team remains active with regular meetups and development updates.
Backpack
Supported by investments from Multicoin and Solana Foundation, Backpack operates as a multi-chain wallet and exchange. Its product and tech teams are based in Tokyo, where development and operational activities continue to expand.
B2C2
A global liquidity provider, B2C2 maintains a significant Tokyo office. The firm has served as a major market maker for XRP and provided liquidity services for projects like Blockdaemon and Stakewise.
Cointelegraph Japan
The Japanese branch of the international crypto media outlet also oversees operations in Chinese, Indonesian, and Korean markets. It plays a key role in disseminating crypto news across Asia.
MEXC
Commonly known as "MEXC" or "Mocha," this established exchange set up a Tokyo office to better serve the Asian time zone, making it its second offshore location after Malaysia.
Amber Japan
A subsidiary of the market maker Amber Group, Amber Japan was acquired during DeCurret’s restructuring phase. Recent reports indicate that it has been purchased by a Japanese consortium.
Oasys
This Layer-1 blockchain focuses on gaming and has partnerships with several well-known Japanese game studios. It enables IP-based NFT and in-game asset issuance on the blockchain.
AStar
An established Japanese blockchain project, AStar has received investment from Polychain, Coinbase, and Binance. It recently partnered with Sony to launch a crypto accelerator and is now focusing on zkEVM development.
Jasmy
One of Japan’s early IoT-integrated crypto projects, Jasmy is listed on major global exchanges. It has since pivoted to the DePIN sector.
CoinPost
A leading Japanese crypto media platform, CoinPost is known for organizing the influential annual webX conference.
Doublejump
The parent company of Oasys, Doublejump has launched NFT projects based on popular IPs like “Captain Tsubasa” and “Romance of the Three Kingdoms.”
Small and Specialized Teams (Under 20 Members)
Hashed
Although a South Korean fund, Hashed maintains a research team in Japan and co-hosts the Tokyo Blockchain Leaders Summit, gathering founders from its investment portfolio.
Skyland
As one of Japan’s largest registered crypto funds, Skyland actively invests in projects with Chinese founders, including Taiko, Merlin, Bitlayer, Unisat, and BitSmiley.
IVC (Infinity Ventures Crypto)
A global seed fund linked to the organizers of the Kyoto IVS conference, IVC has invested in projects like YGG, Mirror, and Scroll.
Azuki
This globally recognized NFT project operates a design studio in Japan, handling both creative and local community operations.
Mask Network
An early entrant into Japan from the Chinese crypto community, Mask Network is well-regarded among local professionals. It often sponsors major crypto events in Japan.
OneKey
An open-source wallet provider backed by Dragonfly, Coinbase, and Framework. Its founder is based in Japan, and the team includes members focused on business development in the region.
Intmax
A Layer-2 blockchain project funded by SNZ, Hashkey, and Mask Network. Its founder, Mai Fujimoto, is a prominent figure in Japan’s crypto community.
Myshell
An AI-based consumer application supported by Dragonfly, OKX, and Folius Ventures. Core team members are based in Japan.
KEKKAI
A blockchain security firm invested in by Bixin, Skyland, and Mask Network. Its founder was a core member of the Waseda University Blockchain Association and has helped organize hackathons for international projects.
TON
The Telegram Open Network has an active ambassador and ecosystem office in Tokyo. Several Japanese projects built on TON have been showcased at local events.
Ripple
Having entered the Japanese market early, Ripple operates a joint venture with SBI. Initial liquidity for XRP was largely provided by Japanese market makers.
Animoca Japan
The Japanese subsidiary of Animoca Brands, this entity has investments from West Japan Railway and Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank. It is also a shareholder in the game guild Apricot Planet.
YGG Japan
The local branch of Yield Guild Games, supported by Animoca, Gate.io, and IVC. It has hosted several influential gaming events.
BYTOM
A long-standing Chinese blockchain project, BYTOM recently established a Tokyo office as part of its pivot toward AI.
Aki
A task-based consumer platform with backing from Oak, Mask, and CatcherVC. The team relocated to Japan prior to token issuance.
MyToken
A veteran soft wallet provider whose founders and core team are now based in Tokyo.
Gate.io
A well-known global exchange with a Tokyo office supporting its Asia-Pacific operations.
OKCoin Japan
The compliant Japanese arm of OKX, with teams supporting global listing operations and legal affairs within the Asian time zone.
Atomicals Market
The largest marketplace for Bitcoin ARC-20 tokens, founded by a long-term Tokyo resident and experienced blockchain developer.
Beyond these, dozens of other global crypto companies operate smaller teams in Japan, often providing development, market entry, or operational support. This growing ecosystem underscores Japan’s increasing relevance in the global digital asset industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are so many crypto companies moving to Japan?
Japan offers a combination of favorable regulatory frameworks, special financial zone designations in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, and relatively accessible visa and residency options. These factors make it an attractive base for global operations.
What types of crypto businesses are most common in Japan?
Exchanges, blockchain development teams, investment funds, and media outlets are particularly prevalent. Many companies focus on gaming, DeFi, NFTs, and international market expansion.
How does Japan’s regulatory approach compare to other countries?
Japan has a well-defined licensing system for crypto exchanges and a generally proactive regulatory stance. This provides clarity and security for businesses, though compliance requirements are strict.
Are there Japanese crypto companies focused on international markets?
Yes, many Japan-based companies—such as BitFlyer, Coincheck, and Skyland—actively invest in or serve users outside Japan, particularly elsewhere in Asia.
What role do Japanese financial institutions play in the crypto industry?
Major banks and trusts like Mitsubishi UFJ and Sumitomo Mitsui often partner with crypto companies for banking services, stablecoin issuance, and strategic investments.
Is it easy for foreign crypto professionals to work in Japan?
Compared to many other countries, Japan offers relatively straightforward visa processes for skilled professionals in tech and finance, especially those joining established companies.
For those interested in learning more about global crypto hubs and market trends, you can explore additional insights here. Japan’s evolving role continues to influence the broader digital asset landscape, making it a key region for developers, investors, and entrepreneurs.