Adaptor: Your Gateway to Business Success in Japan

Gain insider access, cultural fluency, and trusted support to operate confidently and effectively within the Japanese business landscape.

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What we offer

"Adaptor" is a hands-on bilingual consulting service designed for foreign business owners who want more than just translation — they want true integration into the Japanese market.

We help you bridge cultural gaps, build trust with Japanese partners, and position your business for long-term success.

How we can help

Market Discovery & Sourcing

We identify and vet local suppliers, securing the supply chain partners you need to make your business viable. We can also conduct deep-dive market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies.

Corporate Bank Account Setup Support

We’ll accompany you to the bank, help you prepare required documents, and answer on-the-spot questions to ensure a smooth process.

Network Building

Gain introductions to vetted professionals, service providers, and potential business partners you can trust.

Cultural Interpreter & Trusted Intermediary

We act as your eyes and ears, clarifying unspoken expectations and helping you avoid costly misunderstandings.

Localized Marketing Support

Adapt your pitch materials to resonate with Japanese decision-makers — from tone and structure to subtle cultural cues.

Grant Application Review

We offer actionable tips and feedback to strengthen your chances of approval with local agencies.

Cultural Training

Adapt your pitch materials to resonate with Japanese decision-makers — from tone and structure to subtle cultural cues.

Presentation & Deck Optimization

Work with native experts to refine your messaging and visual assets for Japanese audiences.

Why are we doing this?

The situation around the world is at a pivotal moment. As a global community, we must come together to embrace fresh ideas, build meaningful partnerships, and foster deeper collaboration across borders.

We see this as an opportunity, not just to support foreigners in adapting, but to help build bridges between Japan (a place we now call home) and the wider world.

By creating spaces where people from different backgrounds can learn from each other, challenge assumptions, and innovate together, we believe we can contribute to a more inclusive and resilient society, one that draws strength from diversity.

What we bring to the table

Wanping Aw — Cultural Translator & Network Connector

Long-term resident of Japan with deep cross-cultural expertise

  • Japanese Government MEXT scholar, Academic at Keio University focused on nutrition research and founder of TokudAw, a travel and cultural experience company focused on creating enriching journeys in Japan

  • Helps clients build credibility and avoid cultural missteps

  • Experienced in navigating Japan’s bureaucratic systems

  • Strong network across:

    • Municipal tourism boards

    • University departments

    • Local suppliers and regional officials

  • Trusted intermediary for building relationships with Japanese institutions

Alvin Tan — Strategy Advisor & Integration Specialist

Nearly 10 years of corporate experience in Japan

  • Masters in Sociology and have studied and researched intensively about organized global city making which can be applied to Japan's current global immigrant driven city and is passionate to help foreign brands and businesses integrate to local Japanese consumption and lifestyle habits

  • Background in marketing, new product development, and innovation project management

  • Singaporean with bicultural fluency in English and Japanese business norms

  • Helps foreign founders localize business strategy without losing brand identity

  • Offers practical, in-market insight based on firsthand corporate experience in Japan

  • Focused on helping clients integrate smoothly into the Japanese business ecosystem

Are we a fit?

We offer a free 30-minute consultation to understand your goals, assess your needs, and determine if we’re the right partner to help you grow in Japan.

Pricing

  • ¥30,000 / hour (excl. tax)

    Get expert insight or guidance on-demand—ideal for one-off sessions or specific challenges.

  • ¥250,000 / 10-hour package (excl. tax)

    Flexible and cost-effective support for projects that need more time, and use hours as needed.

  • Custom package

    Custom packages available for ongoing projects or larger engagements.