Japan houses some of the world’s most influential companies, from tech giants to automotive leaders. Curious now?
Get ready to explore the largest corporations shaping the Japanese business landscape. Discover their innovations, market dominance, and global impact.
10 Biggest Companies in Japan by Market Capitalization
1. Toyota ($245.04 Billion)
Toyota is a giant automaker and one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers. With an impressive annual production of around 10 million vehicles, Toyota has solidified its position as a top player in the industry.
It was founded in 1937 and is now among the world’s most valuable companies. Toyota has never stopped innovation in hybrid and electric vehicle technology. As a result, it sets trends for the future of sustainable transportation.
2. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group ($141.94 Billion)
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group is the largest financial firm in Japan and a prominent financial group worldwide. It offers various services, such as banking, trust, and securities, in more than 50 countries across the globe.
With its significant international presence, Mitsubishi UFJ remains a powerhouse in the financial realm. Its commitment to digital transformation within the financial sector maintains its status as a leader in technological advancements.
3. Sony ($126.64 Billion)
Another well-known company on the list is Sony, one of the biggest companies in Japan. Sony is a global business that is mainly involved in electronics, gaming, and entertainment. They make the popular PlayStation game console and have their own game development studio.
It has solidified its position in the gaming industry, captivating millions of gamers worldwide with cutting-edge technology and exclusive game titles.
Sony also produces movies and manufactures electronic devices. Founded in 1946, it is now worth more than $100 billion.
4. Hitachi ($118.20 Billion)
Hitachi is one of the biggest conglomerates in Japan. It was founded in 1910 and established in 1920. As a giant industrial equipment manufacturer in Japan, it stands out for its diverse business segments, such as digital systems and services, green energy and mobility, and connective industries.
Not only is Hitachi among the largest companies in Japan, but it is also among the world’s most valuable companies in terms of market capitalization.
5. Keyence ($105.30 Billion)
Keyence is a global company founded in 1974 in Osaka, Japan. It develops, manufactures, and sells automation, safety, and inspection tools. They create products like laser markers, sensors, safety scanners, microscopes, and other measuring devices.
The company is often listed in Forbes’ top 2000 companies, ranking #742 in 2024. Based in Osaka, Keyence has 250 offices in 46 countries.
6. Recruit Holdings ($103.87 Billion)
Recruit Holdings was founded in 1960 in Tokyo, Japan. The company aims to bridge people and businesses, focusing on housing, beauty, and dining services. They provide a platform where users can easily find what they need while businesses connect with the right customers, creating the best matches for everyone involved.
Its main business segments include HR technology, matching and solutions, and staffing.
7. Softbank Group ($99.82 Billion)
SoftBank Group Corp. was established in 1981 as a distributor of computer software. The name “SoftBank” reflects this origin, with “soft” referring to software in Japanese, symbolizing the company as a “bank of software.”
It has diversified its business across various industries and has become one of the largest investment companies in Japan. SoftBank has heavily invested in tech startups and unicorns worldwide, particularly in AI, robotics, e-commerce, and renewable energy.
8. Fast Retailing ($95.98 Billion)
Fast Retailing, a prominent player in the Japanese market, stands out for its Uniqlo brand, offering affordable and stylish apparel. The company has successfully expanded globally by tailoring its products to local trends in various countries. This strategy has enabled Fast Retailing to compete effectively with other domestic firms and international clothing brands.
Moreover, Fast Retailing strongly emphasizes sustainability and ethical sourcing in fashion. By prioritizing these values, the company attracts environment-friendly consumers and sets a positive example for the industry.
9. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group ($94.22 Billion)
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group is one of the biggest conglomerates in Japan. It was founded in and now has a strong presence in the global market. With many subsidiaries under its umbrella, the group offers comprehensive financial services, ranging from banking to asset management.
It is listed among the Forbes Global 2000 and is one of the largest industrial companies in Japan based on market capitalization.
10. Nippon Telegraph and Telephone ($80.09 Billion)
Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) is another major player in telecommunications. Based in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, NTT has been around since 1985 and oversees numerous subsidiaries, most of which are also focused on telecom services.
While telecommunications is its primary business, NTT is also involved in other sectors through its subsidiaries, including security, real estate, finance, engineering, and data processing.
NTT currently holds a market value of over $80 billion and is ranked among the biggest companies in Japan.
We’ve explored Japan’s top 10 largest companies by market cap, ranging from automotive giants like Toyota and Honda to tech innovators like Sony and SoftBank. These companies not only dominate the Japanese market but also have a significant presence worldwide, showcasing Japan’s prowess in various industries.
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Top 10 Companies of Nikkei 225 Index
