The Charms of Working & Learning in Kyoto

Build Your Career in Kyoto: A City of Growth & Global Connections

Diverse & Dynamic Industries

In Kyoto, ancient traditions and modern innovation combine, constantly creating new value and career opportunities.

Traditional Industries

Traditional industries create products that are closely tied to Japanese culture and everyday life. They use age-old techniques and methods, with support from many skilled artisans. In Kyoto City, 74 items have been recognized as traditional industries, helping to preserve and pass on this culture today.

(c)Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design

Cutting-Edge Industries

Building upon traditional techniques, advanced industries have also developed. Kyoto has evolved into a city where leading companies and research institutions in fields such as AI, robotics, and life sciences are concentrated, driving global innovation.

Growing Industries

Kyoto is a vibrant hub for unique content industries such as manga, anime, and gaming. The city continues to grow as a place where rich traditions combine with modern technology, especially in the film and gaming industries.

Leading Global Companies

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

Nintendo's gaming empire extends across America, Europe, and Asia.

KYOCERA Corporation

KYOCERA is a global enterprise with around 300 group companies worldwide.

OMRON Corporation

OMRON provides products and services in automation and beyond to over 130 countries.

ROHM Co., Ltd.

ROHM develops and manufactures semiconductors and electronic components, with 76 overseas bases.

Wacoal Holdings Corp.

Wacoal, famous for intimate apparel, operates globally across Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Oceania.

Kyoto, A City of Business

Kyoto is a city that inspires business leaders and helps their ventures thrive.

Support & Community

Startup Visa

Kyoto City has introduced a Startup Visa system, making entry and residence easier for those preparing to start a business.

Support Programs for Businesses

Kyoto City offers extensive support for businesses looking for a place to start.

Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces and shared offices are continuously emerging in Kyoto City, creating an environment where entrepreneurs and creators can easily launch startups.

Artist-in-Residence

We run a program that invites artists, creators, researchers, and others in the arts field to stay in Kyoto for a designated period to engage in creative activities and collaborate. Additionally, we are involved in a public-private partnership project that welcomes creative residencies from creators around the world. This initiative encompasses not only the arts but also various fields such as architecture, literature, crafts, cuisine, and business sectors like startups.

Emilia Alvarez
(Photographer:Oka Haruka)

Advanced Research & Academic Foundation

Kyoto is home to world-class universities and research institutions, where cutting-edge knowledge and technology are created daily.

World-Class Research Institutions

Kyoto boasts a concentration of world-class research institutions, continuously generating cutting-edge knowledge and technology. This environment attracts excellent researchers and students from Japan and abroad, making Kyoto a vibrant hub for innovation.

Kyoto University

One of Japan's leading comprehensive universities, renowned for producing numerous Nobel Prize laureates.

ATR (Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International)

A leading private research institution conducting cutting-edge research in AI, robotics, and communication.

Kyoto: A City of Students and Universities

With a large student population making up roughly 10% of Kyoto City, the city benefits from revitalized research institutions and a wealth of excellent human resources.

A City of Meetings

Kyoto is also a renowned "International Conference City," providing fantastic opportunities for research presentations and international exchange. Numerous academic conferences and international symposiums are held throughout the year, making Kyoto the perfect city for researchers to build valuable networks.

Resident Stories

Hear the real voices of those who have moved to Kyoto and are thriving here! They share their reasons for starting work and how they beautifully balance work and life.

A Life Woven in Kyoto: An Interview with Eni Sri Budilestari

Resident Stories

Meet Eni Sri Budilestari. She has called Kyoto home for nearly 30 years. An archaeologist from Yogyakarta, Indonesia, she first arrived to study cultural restoration but soon found herself captivated by the city's unique blend of nature, tradition, and deep sense of community. Eni's story is one of thoughtful adaptation, bridging her Javanese heritage with the local customs of Kyoto. Join us as she offers invaluable insights for anyone curious about life in Japan's ancient capital.<br />

Brewing a Life in Kyoto: An Interview with Kyoto Brewing Co.

Resident Stories

Meet Paul Speed and Ben Falck. Originally from Canada and the UK respectively, they are the founders behind Kyoto Brewing Co., one of the city's most beloved craft beer producers. Their journey in Japan began as a Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) and an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) on the JET Programme※, but a shared passion for craft beer and an entrepreneurial spirit led them down a different path. Their story is a blend of international friendship, a deep appreciation for Kyoto's culture of craftsmanship, and the art of creating exceptional beer. Join them as they share their insights on starting a business, building a community, and making a home in Japan's ancient capital. <br /> <br /> ※The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme is a Japanese government initiative that invites college graduates from around the world to work as language teachers or international relations coordinators in local communities. As of July 2025, there are close to 6000 participants on the programme.

If you have any questions before moving to Kyoto or concerns regarding the relocation process or available support systems, please feel free to contact us.