Kioxia has developed foundational 3D DRAM technology using IGZO oxide semiconductors, signaling the NAND-only maker's bold entry into the DRAM market. Behind this challenge: exploding AI demand and the physical limits of current memory. We break down the competition with Samsung, SK hynix, and China's CXMT.
Furukawa Electric's Lightera begins mass production of the world's highest-class 13,824-core ultra-high-density fiber optic cable. Learn how this Japanese innovation doubles transmission capacity for hyperscale AI data centers.
Fusion power, maglev trains, and hydrogen aircraft are driving a resurgence in Japan's high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technology. Fujikura is investing $750M+ to boost wire production up to 8x, Toshiba partners with Airbus on superconducting motors, and Toyota integrates HTS into hydrogen cars. As competition with U.S. giant CFS intensifies, Japan's deep HTS supply chain emerges as a critical global asset.
Japan's 2026 official land prices rose 2.8% nationwide — the steepest climb since the bubble era. Tokyo topped residential gains for the first time in 18 years, while semiconductor factories and record tourism reshape regional land markets. Foreign investors now account for 27% of property deals.
Toyota announces mass production of water electrolysis systems by 2029, developed with Chiyoda Corporation. With 5MW domestic and 20MW international units, Toyota bets on hydrogen alongside EVs and hybrids. How Japan's multi-pathway strategy compares to the global EV-first approach.
Saudi investment firm EGDC has acquired 5.03% of Capcom's shares, bringing total Saudi-linked ownership to roughly 10%. Known as SNK's parent company, EGDC's move comes amid a broader wave of Middle Eastern capital flowing into Japanese gaming—from the $55 billion EA acquisition to expanded stakes in Nintendo. We break down the latest developments and public reactions.
Chinese mobile payment platforms Alipay and WeChat Pay are rapidly expanding across Japan, driven by surging inbound tourism. While convenient for businesses and tourists alike, transactions bypassing Japan's financial system raise serious tax compliance concerns. Finance Minister Katayama calls it a 'grave issue' and vows G7 cooperation.
Japan's Power Diamond Systems, a Waseda University spinoff, achieved the world's first 200V/1A switching operation with a diamond MOSFET. With 550V breakdown voltage and 0.8A drain current in a single device, diamond semiconductors could surpass SiC and GaN as the ultimate power semiconductor for EVs and renewable energy.
Asahi Kasei has begun installing its Aqualyzer C3 containerized alkaline water electrolyzer in Jyväskylä, Finland — the country's first commercial hydrogen station. Backed by a Toyota-linked foundation, this marks a significant entry for Japanese electrolyzer technology into the Nordic green hydrogen market dominated by European giants like Siemens Energy and Nel ASA.
Japanese fusion startup Helical Fusion has announced that Phase 1 of its final demonstration device Helix HARUKA will be built at the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS). With energization tests planned for 2027, the company is betting on Japan's unique helical approach to beat global rivals including Commonwealth Fusion Systems and TAE Technologies in the race to commercial fusion power.
Australian data center giant AirTrunk has expanded its Japan investment to over $8 billion. We analyze the paradox of how Japan's population decline is creating prime opportunities for AI infrastructure, examine the 'Data Center Ginza' cluster in Inzai, and compare Japan's position with Singapore and Southeast Asia.