Yokohama believes it has everything needed to be East Asia’s tech hub. It is certainly an ambitious goal, but one based on pragmatism. The Japanese city already has many of the required elements to make it happen. This includes a strong tech ecosystem combined with large research and development operations as well as a popular location.
The desire of Yokohama to become East Asia’s tech hub was boosted in 2020 when it was named as the 15th best place in the world for startup ecosystems in the Global Cities of the Future rankings. That was a byproduct of previous efforts, including a commitment to become an Innovation City in 2019.
This initiative saw the city develop a framework where engineers, entrepreneurs, researchers and students could collaborate and expand their networks which is vital in the creation of innovation, especially as it relates to technology.
Importantly, Yokohama also boasts headquarters and major R&D centers for leading companies such as Shiseido, Bosch and Nissan. These factors, alongside a robust tech startup support system, provide a solid foundation from a business perspective.
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There is, of course, more to being East Asia’s tech hub than business. Livability and location matter a great deal as well. This is another strength of Yokohama. It is only a 40-minute train ride from Tokyo which is home to two international airports and bountiful entertainment options.
Meanwhile, Yokohama is seen as a desirable place to live that is less hectic than its neighbor. There are international schools and a robust expat community as well as plenty of things to do and see. Additionally, the infrastructure of Japan makes getting just about anywhere else in the country a breeze.
Yokohama has everything it takes to become East Asia’s tech hub. That being said, competition for startups and talent across the region remains fierce with a number of factors, including ease of doing business and cost of living, potentially working against the city.
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