F E AT U RE Nippon Expresss overseas removals business branch, where its office and warehouse are located TOMOMI FUJITA, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ASIAN TIGERS JAPAN Thanks to information technology and high-quality products based in Japan, our economy is very active ATSUSHI TEMPAKU, GENERAL MANAGER OF NIPPON EXPRESS CO., LTD. Cross-cultural training can be of great benefit to both sides, she adds. However, one of the upsides of Japanese culture is that the way one conducts oneself in business is considered very important. Most clients honour the contract fully once a decision has been made, says Morocz. He adds: Japan is a society of consensus. Japanese decision-makers must think about how the decision will affect their colleagues, not just their superiors, but also the people they manage. Additionally, Japanese managers think deeply about how much risk is involved. They will often turn down a great opportunity in order to avoid risk. This is how Japanese companies differ greatly from American companies. NEW CHALLENGES AHEAD Like other markets around the world, the demographics of this leading nation are changing. But where will the growth come from for movers? At Nippon Express, Tempaku believes the Japanese automotive industries will continue to bring the most benefit for his business. However, he says: As a challenge for Japan, the population may decrease in the next half century. This means that our moving industry has a challenge to find new business or a (new) value-added service. Santa Fes Morocz offers another perspective. Large Japanese entities that are beginning to globalise and that do not have experience in international moving will be the key to our success, he says. The market is becoming more diverse, so it will be easier for us to find our niche. In many markets and industries, the fierce competition posed by rival Asian giant China may be seen as a threat. Some FIDI Affiliates in Tokyo, DOWN TOKYO WAY Visiting Tokyo soon? Then take some tips on what to see, do, and where to eat from the local experts our FIDI Affiliates Thomas Morocz, General Manager at Santa Fe Relocation Tokyo, says: When visiting Japan, we would most definitely recommend tasting the delicious seafood available here. Nice areas to visit in Tokyo are Asakusa with its old-town feel and Shibuya, which is the shopping and trendy area. Atsushi Tempaku, General Manager at Nippon Express Co. Ltd, recommends: Sens-ji Temple, in Taito ward, is the oldest temple in Tokyo. There is a long 68 FF295 FebMar20 pp64-71 City on the Move Toyko.indd 68 street with shops between the gate and the temple. Shibuya/Harajuku/Omotesando (Shibuya ward) a popular area both domestically and internationally as a place for Japanese fashion. In addition, there are no shortage of sightseeing spots. A kihabara (Chiyoda ward) one of the centres of Japanese pop culture, and where many electronics shops are located. Tomomi Fujita, Managing Director of Asian Tigers Japan, says: Tokyo truly has something for everyone. And whats on offer can change quite dramatically with the seasons. No matter your interests and tastes, youre just about guaranteed to find something to please. If you want a sampler experience, how about taking the Yurikamome Line (monorail) to Odaiba, a futuristic manmade island in Tokyo Bay. On your way, glimpse some of Tokyos varied districts and enjoy the view as you cross Rainbow Bridge. WWW. F I D I FOC U S . OR G 20/01/2020 15:39