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A complete guide to selling traditional Japanese goods in your home country, both privately and through agencies

Private sales of traditional Japanese goods in my home country

A complete guide to selling at a dealership


~All the know-how from a practitioner who achieved 1 million yen a month through overseas expansion of hanging dolls and Hina doll accessories~


"I want to sell beautiful traditional Japanese crafts in my home country."
"Parts for Hina dolls and May dolls, a traditional Japanese industry,
I want to sell to Japanese goods shops that currently sell overseas."

"I'm fascinated by the delicate craftsmanship behind hanging dolls, and I see a business opportunity."
"But I don't know where to start..."
"I don't know what kind of deal to start with..."

This article was written for you.

There are people living overseas who have achieved stable profits by importing and selling Japanese goods from Japan ,

Based on the actual experience of a Japanese manufacturer that already distributes products overseas ,

We will reveal all the methods that will ensure your success even if you start from scratch .








As of 2025, overseas demand for traditional Japanese goods has reached an all-time high .

Price competitiveness improved due to the weak yen,

Furthermore, with inbound visits to Japan reaching a record high since COVID-19

Due to the surge in interest in Japanese culture,

The perfect time has come for both individuals and corporations to enter the market.



In this guide,

From small-scale transactions that even sole proprietors can safely start,

From full-scale wholesale transactions with existing overseas Japanese goods shops
,

Detailed explanation of strategies for each stage.

If you don't know how to start trading, don't worry.



Why are Japanese goods so popular overseas now?

Is it selling explosively?



Market trends and great business opportunities in 2025


In 2025, Japan's Japanese goods market is reaching a historic turning point overseas.


A combination of multiple factors

This creates a huge business opportunity that even individuals can enter.



Factor 1: Dramatic improvement in price competitiveness due to the weak yen


Exchange rate tailwind

Due to the weak yen trend that has continued since 2024,

The price attractiveness of Japanese products from an overseas perspective has improved significantly.

According to the Ministry of Finance's Trade White Paper 2024,

It has been confirmed that the rise in yen-denominated export prices due to the weakening of the yen is contributing to a trade surplus.


・Price advantage of approximately 20-30% compared to 2022 ・Previously "luxury" products will become "affordable specials" ・Price gap with competing Chinese products will narrow (Japanese products may be cheaper...)
・Recognized as "an art piece with investment value" by high-income earners in Europe and the United States



Actual market trends


Although government statistics provide limited detailed data on specific miscellaneous goods,

The following trends have been identified:


・Export value in 2023 is expected to reach 100.8738 trillion yen, an increase of 2.8% from the previous year

・Travel receipts, which represent the amount of spending by foreign tourists visiting Japan, reached 5,224.1 billion yen, an increase of 330.1% from last year's 1,214.7 billion yen.

・With the recovery of inbound consumption, interest in Japanese products is rapidly increasing

・The use of personal import agency services is on the rise



Factor 2: Post-COVID-19 Japanese culture boom


Full recovery of inbound tourism


The number of foreign tourists visiting Japan has recovered to about 80% of the level before the spread of COVID-19.

・Powerful word-of-mouth effects from people who have actually experienced Japan

・Demand for people who want to continue experiencing Japanese culture after returning home

・Continued interest in products that could not be purchased locally

・Demand for gifts of "genuine Japanese products" for friends and family


Cultural impact of streaming content

With the distribution of Japanese content on Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc.,

Interest in Japanese culture is increasing worldwide


・Bringing Japanese culture closer to people through dramas and anime

・Increasing desire to "actually hold Japanese products in their hands"

・Increase in the number of Japanese culture shares on social media

・Influencers introducing Japanese products has become a normal part of the market


Factor 3: Rising awareness of sustainability

A global resurgence in craftsmanship

As environmental awareness grows, interest shifts from mass-produced goods to handicrafts

・Change in values towards "quality that can be used for a lifetime"

Respect for craftsmanship

・Increased demand for products with a story

・Strong commitment to authenticity

ESG investment perspective

Due to the growing awareness of corporate social responsibility

・Awareness of investing in preserving traditional techniques

・Use of culturally valuable products as corporate gifts

・Recognition of sustainable manufacturing processes

・Purchasing behavior to support the local economy


Factor 4: Digitalization makes it easier for individuals to enter the market

Enhancement of cross-border e-commerce platform

An environment has been created that makes it easy for small organizations and individuals to start selling overseas

・The spread of Shopify, Amazon Global, etc.

・Multilingual support and standardization of multi-currency payments

・Improved delivery agency services

・Increase in support services for small-lot imports

The effects of social media marketing

Establishing a sales method that does not rely on traditional advertising

・The effectiveness of product introductions on Instagram and TikTok

・Individual collaboration with influencers

・Natural word-of-mouth diffusion effect

・Building a strong fan base in a niche market

Factor 5: A market with few competitors and low barriers to entry

Why it's difficult for large companies to enter the market

The Hanging Dolls and Japanese Goods market is "too small" for large companies,

Opportunities for individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises

・Individual transactions with craftsmen are required (mass production is not possible)

・Cultural understanding is essential (difficult to create a manual)

・Local sales are effective

・Flexible response to customization demands is required


Why now is the best time to enter

- Early stage of market growth

Few competitors

-Easy to build customer loyalty

-Easier to gain first-mover advantage

There is a lot of room for brand building


Market environment in 2025

Export environment as seen from government statistics


Japan's food, agriculture, forestry and fishery exports for the first half of 2024 (January to June)

It has been steadily increasing at 701.3 billion yen.

Similar trends are expected in non-food sectors.


Of particular note is the following since the release of ALPS treated water:

Exports to China and Hong Kong are declining.

On the other hand, exports to other countries and regions increased by 14.3%.


This indicates that the market is becoming more diversified.

Similar diversification effects can be expected in the Japanese goods sector.


Actual growth indicators

・Rapid recovery in inbound consumption (330% increase compared to the previous year)

・Continued expansion of the cross-border e-commerce market

・Increased demand for personal import agency services

・Increasing interest in Japanese culture-related products

・Improved price competitiveness due to the weak yen


Why act now?


The importance of time advantage

This business opportunity is not permanent

・The effects of the weak yen may be corrected at some point

- Intensifying competition due to an increase in entrants

・Risk of large companies entering the market

・Possibility of stricter regulations

・Customer acquisition costs are on the rise


Gaining first-mover advantage

The advantage you gain by starting now

・Building exclusive relationships with quality suppliers

・Accumulation of customer database

・Establishing brand awareness

・Developing effective sales channels

・Building barriers to entry through accumulation of know-how


Key to success

A strategy that increases value tenfold just by "changing the way you see it"



Hanging Hina Doll Parts → Accessories → Charms


Successfully selling traditional Japanese crafts overseas

The biggest secret is to "change the way you see things."

Even with the same product, just by changing the way you introduce it,

Market value will increase 3-10 times.

Strategy 1: "Shifting perspective" from hanging doll parts to accessories

Traditional view: "Part of a hanging doll display"

- Seasonal decorations

・Cultural products that only Japanese people can understand

・Static products that are only displayed and looked at

・Demand only during the Doll's Festival

・Price: Around 500-2,000 yen


Post-transition perspective: "Wearable accessories"

・Practical items that can be worn 365 days a year

・Beautiful jewelry that people all over the world can enjoy

・Dynamic products that can be enjoyed through movement

・Fashion items in demand all year round

・Price: Approximately 1,500-6,000 yen (3-4 times higher)



Specific conversion techniques

**For hanging crane doll parts:**

❌ "Crane decorations for Hinamatsuri"
✅ "A beautiful pendant that brings longevity and happiness"
✅ "Amulet accessories made with love by Japanese artisans"
✅ "A charm to wear every day to bring good luck"


**For the hanging rabbit doll parts:**

❌ "Spring Decorative Rabbit"
✅ "Safe delivery and fertility amulet earrings"
✅ "Jewelry of love that deepens family ties"
✅ "A symbol of motherhood and the desire for new life"


Strategy 2: Utilizing the "story" to create a talisman


The power of reason

Entering the spiritual market


Each part of the hanging dolls has a deep meaning,
By promoting this, we can enter the huge spiritual and amulet market.


- Global amulet and talisman market: $50 billion annually

・70% of Western women believe in amulets

・A strong desire for "ancient Japanese wisdom"

・Price resistance has significantly decreased

・Repeat purchase rate has increased significantly


Examples of commercialization utilizing the "reason" of each part


Crane amulet accessories :

・"The longevity power of a 1000-year-old crane for you"
・"A symbol of good fortune that has been loved in Japan for a thousand years"
・"A guardian bird that gives you the strength to overcome difficulties"
・"Just wearing it will improve your luck"


Turtle amulet accessories :

"The strongest talisman that promises eternal prosperity"
・"Amulet of prosperity that attracts business success"
・"A symbol of family harmony that protects the safety of the family"
・"A symbol of perseverance that supports steady growth"

Peach amulet accessories :

・"The strongest talismanic power to ward off evil spirits"
"Cut off bad luck and attract good luck"
・"Healing fruits that protect the health of the body and mind"
・"Amulet of hope to support a new start"


Temari charm accessories :

・"A circle of love that deepens family ties"
・"A symbol of harmony that smooths human relationships"
・"Amulet for love success"
・"A healing sphere that brings peace of mind"


Strategy 3: Market-specific "perspective transformation" strategy


North American Market: A "Power Stone" Approach

・"Ancient Japanese Power Charm"
・"Handcrafted Lucky Talisman"
・"Spiritual Energy Jewelry"
・300-Year-Old Wisdom Amulet

European Market: A "Traditional Crafts Art" Approach

・"Traditional Japanese Art Jewelry"
・"Artisan-Crafted Cultural Heritage"
・"Sustainable Handmade Luxury"
・"Museum-Quality Wearable Art"


Asia-Pacific Market: A Feng Shui and Lucky Charm Approach

・"Feng Shui Good Luck Accessories"
・"Amulet for increasing financial luck"
・"Amulet for family harmony"
・"A lucky charm for prosperity of descendants"


Strategy 4: Creating value through storytelling

Add a "story" to your product


Even with the same product, having a story significantly increases the emotional value


Example: The story of the crane pendant


"This beautiful crane pendant has been around for 300 years, since the Edo period.

Japanese mothers pray for the happiness of their children, stitch by stitch

It is made by hand using traditional techniques.

In Japan, it has long been believed that cranes can live for 1,000 years.

It has been considered a symbol of longevity and happiness.


A mother wants her child to live a long and happy life like a crane.

We create this crane with all our heart.

Even today, 80-year-old craftsman Tanaka-san handcrafts each piece in our workshop.

With beautiful pure silk fabric and techniques handed down through generations,

A special amulet that is one of a kind in the world will be born.

By wearing this pendant,

A mother's love that has been passed down for 300 years,

The mystical power of the crane will protect you and bring you good fortune."


Strategy 5: Changing the way you see pricing

How prices are displayed changes the perception of value

❌ Conventional pricing :

Hanging Hina Doll Parts: 2,000 yen
→ It seems expensive, and the necessity is unclear

✅ Price display after conversion :


"Good luck charm pendant made with 300-year-old traditional techniques: $35"

"Get the power of authentic Japanese charms for just 10 cents a day."

→ Feel the value of your investment and feel it's affordable



Five principles for successful "perspective transformation"

1. From function to emotion

Communicate with an emphasis on "how it feels" rather than "what it can do"


2. From static to dynamic

Shift from "something to decorate" to "something to use/wear"


3. From Cultural to Universal

Translating values from "only Japanese people understand" to "people all over the world can relate to"


4. From products to experiences

Shifting value from "buying things" to "buying experiences, stories, and emotions"


5. From one-time to continuous

Create a system to build a "continuous relationship" from a "one-time purchase"

Specifically, I'll be replacing it in the new year.

We will remake the value of this Japanese amulet.

Moreover, it is made in Japan. This is an education in a culture that prays for high-class values.


Basic knowledge for safe import sales for sole proprietors

From the differences between small-lot imports and personal imports to legal regulations


Before you begin importing and selling goods, there are some basic legal knowledge that you should understand.

If you start in the wrong way, you risk violating the law and getting into tax trouble.

It is essential to have the right knowledge.


Basic knowledge 1: The crucial difference between personal imports and small-lot imports (commercial imports)

Definition and Restrictions on Personal Imports

Personal imports are "imports for personal use" and are illegal to sell.

・For personal use only ・Reselling or selling is against the law ・Duty calculation: Overseas market price x 0.6 x tariff rate ・Taxable amounts under 10,000 yen are exempt from duty and consumption tax ・Quantity limits apply (within reasonable personal consumption limits)

Definition and Obligations of Small-lot Imports (Commercial Imports)

Imports for sale purposes are considered commercial imports regardless of whether they are personal or corporate.

・Import for sale ・Comply with all laws and regulations as a business ・Customs duty calculation: 100% of product price plus customs duty, consumption tax, and full payment of customs duties ・Responsibility for quality and safety standards

Customs Judgment Criteria


Customs determines whether an import is personal or commercial based on the following factors:


・Type and quantity of product ・Frequency of imports ・Contents of invoice ・Past performance of the importer ・Use of product (For personal use / For commercial use)


Basic knowledge 2: Minimum required procedures (5 minutes to understand)

Immediately required procedures : Business start-up notification: Submit to the tax office (only one document)
・Business account: Can be opened on the same day at an online bank


Customs duties and consumption tax (a rough understanding is OK)

・ Hanging Hina Doll Parts: Almost tax-free to around 3% ・ Consumption Tax: 10% (same for all products)
・Example: A product costing 10,000 yen → Approximately 11,000 yen including tax *Details will be calculated automatically by the customs broker.


Basic Knowledge 3: A Practical Solution to the Shipping Cost Problem

Shipping issues: the biggest bottleneck

The biggest difficulty in importing Japanese goods is actually the shipping cost.

・Small lot (5-10 pieces): Shipping costs are 50-80% of the product price
・Minimum order quantity from suppliers: Usually 50-100 units or more ・Airmail shipping: 1kg = approximately 2,000-4,000 yen ・Customs duties and fees: Additional costs ・Reality: Small orders are not profitable


Solution 1: Group purchasing and joint purchasing are one option


Joint purchasing with colleagues from the same region :
・Recruiting friends on social media (Facebook, Instagram)
・Minimum 100 items shared by 5-10 people ・Shipping costs reduced to 1/5-1/10 ・Risk dispersion and information exchange possible ・Success example: "○○ Japanese Goods Joint Purchasing Group"


Solution 2: Use a Japanese export agent


Specialists who can handle small quantities :


・Proxy services such as buyee and WorldShopping ・Reduce unit prices by shipping multiple items together ・Customs procedures handled ・Commission: 10-15% of product price
・We can handle orders from as little as one piece.


Solution 3: Utilizing the local Japanese network


Cooperation with those returning to Japan temporarily :

・Finding collaborators in the local Japanese community ・Suitcase transportation when returning to Japan temporarily ・Zero shipping costs ・Safe transactions based on trust ・Possibility of a long-term partnership

Solution 4: Gradually Increase the Amount


**Step 1:** Test 10 products with an agent (high cost but market confirmation)
**Step 2:** Procure 50 units through joint purchase (halve costs, expand sales channels)
**Step 3:** Place an order for 100 units (start full-scale wholesale transactions)
Step 4: Regular orders of 200 or more units (stable business)



Pricing strategy that makes shipping costs your ally


Shipping cost explanation as "scarcity" :
・"Shipping costs will be incurred as the product is imported directly from Japan..."
・"Because it is a one-of-a-kind item made by a craftsman..."
・"Special items that you can't get anywhere else"
・Used as a reason to justify high prices ・Transformed into a premium feel


A practical way to get started: A practical approach to solving shipping problems

Step 1: Ultra-small scale test period (first month)

Goal : Check market reaction at minimum cost

Method : Test only 3-5 items with an agent

Action :

・Submit business start-up notification ・Purchase about 5 units through an agent (buyee, etc.) ・Test sales on social media ・Confirm customer response and sales price ・Check profitability including shipping costs


Step 2: Joint purchasing period (2-4 months)

Goal : Drastically reduce shipping costs

Method : Purchase 100 units together with a friend

Action :

・Finding partners in the local community in your home country ・Forming a joint purchasing group ・Sharing 100 units among 5-10 people ・Reducing shipping costs to 1/5 or less ・Starting full-scale sales


Step 3: Single purchase period (after 5 months)

Goal : Stable business

Method : Bulk purchases based on sales performance

Action :

・Direct negotiations with suppliers based on sales performance ・Regular orders of 200 or more ・Expanded handling of multiple products ・Started wholesale with local shops ・Price preferences through annual contracts

Shipping cost issues: concrete numerical examples

Realistic cost comparison

**For small lots (10 pieces):**

・Product price: 20,000 yen ・Shipping fee: 15,000 yen (75%)
・Customs duties etc.: 2,000 yen ・Total: 37,000 yen (3,700 yen per item)
・Sale price: 6,000 yen required → too expensive and unable to sell


**In the case of joint purchase (100 units):**

・Product price: 150,000 yen (wholesale price)
・Shipping fee: 30,000 yen (20%)
・Customs duties etc.: 15,000 yen ・Total: 195,000 yen (1,950 yen per item)
・Sales price: 3,500 yen → Very competitive


Five practical principles for success


1. Factor in shipping costs from the start


Explain shipping costs to customers as proof of scarcity, not a cost



2. Make friendships a priority

Don't start alone, be sure to find a purchasing partner



3. Start small and grow big


Initially, test the system even if it will result in losses, then gradually expand the scale



4. Utilize local networks

Actively build relationships with the Japanese community and those returning to Japan temporarily


5. "Premium Strategy" until volume increases

Create a sense of exclusivity by offering small quantities at high prices, then gradually increase the quantity and lower the price



Risk Management and Countermeasures

Major risks and countermeasures

**Exchange rate fluctuations:**

・Utilizing futures contracts ・Setting price revision rules ・Trading in multiple currencies ・Utilizing currency hedging products


Five principles for success


1. Thorough compliance with laws and regulations

We prioritize long-term trust over short-term profits and ensure compliance with all laws and regulations.


2. No compromise on quality

Compete on quality rather than price, and prioritize customer satisfaction.


3. Continuous learning

Stay up-to-date on regulations, market trends, and technological advancements


4. Risk diversification

Not dependent on one product or one sales channel


5. Building honest relationships

Build win-win relationships with suppliers, customers, and all stakeholders


How to find and negotiate with reliable Japanese manufacturers and workshops

How to ensure high quality by dealing directly with artisans

Success in import sales depends on building relationships with reliable suppliers.

Especially in traditional crafts such as Hina dolls and May dolls,

Direct relationships of trust with artisans and workshops are the key to quality and stable supply.



Approach 1: How to find quality workshops and craftsmen

In fact, the best place to buy is here


Even if you search around for actual production areas in the Hina doll industry ,

I can't find a workshop that can handle overseas sales.

As craftsmen are aging, they are reluctant to take on new business, and quality and delivery times are unstable.

We'll solve it

We have over 20 years of experience in providing products exclusively for overseas sales.


Our inbound products

Hanging Hina Dolls - Traditional Inatori Hanging Hina Dolls, Modern Arrangements, Various Sizes Available

Children's Day products
- May dolls, carp streamers, helmet ornaments, festival accessory sets

Japanese goods
- seasonal accessories, traditional crafts, gift sets


Why Choose Us?

  • Integrated support from packaging to delivery
  • English and multilingual instructions available
  • Damage warranty and after-sales support
  • Supports small to large lot transactions


Regarding prices,
the prices on the website are fixed prices.

https://hinaninngyou.com/collections/inbound


If you wish to purchase wholesale, we can offer a discounted rate.

Please contact us whether you are an individual or a corporation.



Points to identify a reliable workshop


Technical criteria :

☑ A long-established business that has been in business for more than three generations or has more than 20 years of training. ☑ Certified as a traditional craftsman or have received various awards. ☑ Works exhibited at exhibitions and museums. ☑ Media coverage and publications. ☑ Commitment to technical training and development of successors.
☑ Overseas shipping experience

Business criteria :

☑ Proven track record of meeting delivery deadlines ☑ Stable quality ☑ Smooth communication ☑ Flexible response ☑ Long-term partnership orientation


Approach 2: First contact with the craftsman

Anatomy of a successful initial approach


1. A respectful and understanding introduction


・Express deep respect for traditional techniques ・Demonstrate understanding of the cultural value of the work ・Convey a sense of mission to introduce Japanese culture overseas ・Focus on long-term relationships rather than short-term profits ・Share personal impressions of the artisan's work

Approach 3: Steps to building trust


Phase 1: Learning and understanding (1-2 months)


Goal : Gaining the trust of craftsmen

Action :

・Learn in detail about the cultural background of the work ・Deepen your understanding of the production process ・Demonstrate seriousness by asking questions ・Show a broad interest in other works ・Request a tour of the workshop if possible



Phase 2: Start of small-scale trading (2-3 months)


Goal : Building a foundation for commerce

Action :

・Start with a small order of 1-3 items ・Pay in advance to show your credibility ・Get detailed feedback on the work you receive ・Report on reactions overseas with photos and videos ・Discuss your next order and share plans

Stage 3: Ongoing partnership (after 3 months)


Goal : Establishing long-term business relationships

Action :

・Establishing regular order patterns ・Sharing and consulting annual plans ・Special orders and cooperation requests ・Active cooperation in overseas expansion ・Contributing to each other's business development



Win-win negotiation approach


Quantitative benefits provided :

・Guarantee of continuous regular orders ・Price negotiations based on the total annual volume ・Support for workshops through orders during off-season ・Bundle orders for multiple products ・Stabilization through long-term contracts


Co-creation of added value :

・Sharing information on overseas markets ・Providing customer feedback ・Collaborating on product improvements ・Collaborating on the creation of marketing materials ・Contributing to improving brand value



Approach 5: Quality control and continuous improvement


Clarification of quality standards


Quality standards that should be shared with craftsmen


Appearance Standards :

・No uneven color or stains ・Regular shape ・Beautiful overall balance ・Proper protection during packaging


Functional criteria :

・Stable manufacturing ・Packaging that can withstand overseas shipping ・Resistant to humidity changes ・Ensuring safety


Continuous quality improvement

Feedback System :


・Sharing customer evaluations and making improvements ・Actively presenting improvement proposals ・Sharing information on success stories ・Prompt response when problems occur


Contribution to technological improvement :

・Providing information on trends in overseas markets ・Sharing information on new technologies and materials ・Providing data on acceptance in different cultures ・Sharing analytical information on competing products ・Translating market needs ・Responding to needs with new products


Long-term Partnership Strategy
Sharing our vision for the next five years :
・Increasing recognition in overseas markets ・Establishing the artisan brand ・Contributing to the succession of skills ・Promoting cultural exchange ・Sustainable business growth

Specific cooperation plans :
・Formulation of annual ordering plans ・Participation in new product development ・Joint participation in overseas exhibitions ・Planning artisan exchange programs ・Cooperation in nurturing the next generation

How to start wholesale transactions with overseas Japanese goods shops


How to build win-win relationships with existing buyers and retailers


The next step for small organization/personal sales is

This is a wholesale transaction with Japanese goods shops and Japanese product specialty stores already operating overseas.



This method ensures more stable sales and continuous revenue,

This will ensure access to the local market.



Strategy 1: Understanding the types and characteristics of Japanese goods shops overseas

Japanese goods specialty store/Japanese goods shop

A local retailer specializing in Japanese products

Features :

・Deep understanding and love of Japanese culture ・Already have regular customers (fans of Japanese culture) ・Understand the demand for seasonal products (Girl's Day, Children's Day) ・Looking for high-quality products ・Looking for a continuous purchasing partner


Suitable products :

・Parts and accessories for Hina dolls and May dolls ・Single and set items of hanging Hina dolls ・Seasonal decorations (related to the Girls' Festival and Boys' Festival)
・Accessories that utilize traditional crafts ・Products with explanations of their cultural background


Asian goods store/interior shop
<br>A store that sells Asian products in general and also sells Japanese products


Features :

・Having a wide range of customers ・Placing importance on price competitiveness ・Preferring products with high turnover rates ・Prioritizing products that can be sold year-round rather than seasonal ・Seeking products with high display effects


Suitable products :

・Hanging Hina doll parts made into accessories ・Japanese goods with a great interior design ・Affordable traditional crafts ・Small-sized items suitable as gifts ・Beautiful products that look great in photos


Online specialty store (cross-border e-commerce)


Selling Japanese products on Amazon, eBay, and their own e-commerce sites

Features :

・Product selection based on data analysis ・SEO and review measures are important ・Shipping efficiency is important ・Differentiation from competing products is required ・Stable quality and lead time are required


Suitable products :

・Keyword products with high search demand ・Products that are easy to write reviews for ・Size and weight that are easy to deliver ・Exclusive products that cannot be obtained anywhere else ・Products that are expected to be purchased repeatedly


Strategy 2: How to find and analyze existing shops

Online research findings

Regional Google search :

・"Japanese goods store [city name]"
・“Asian gifts shop [city name]”
・"Japanese traditional crafts [country name]"
・"Hina doll parts [country name]"
・"Japanese accessories wholesale [region name]"


Social media and marketplace research :

・Instagram: #japanesegoods #japanesecrafts
・Facebook: Local Japanese product groups ・Amazon/eBay: Stores selling Japanese products ・Etsy: Handmade/craft specialty stores ・Local online marketplaces


Direct contact at exhibitions and events


Must-attend exhibitions :

・International gift and miscellaneous goods exhibitions ・Cultural exchange events ・Japanese festivals ・Handmade and craft exhibitions ・Interior and home related exhibitions ・Local chamber of commerce events



Strategy 3: Effective approach


Strategic structuring of initial contact


1. Show understanding and respect for the other store

・Research the store concept and product lineup in detail ・Analyze compatibility and complementary relationships with existing products ・Prepare product proposals suited to the store's customer base ・Act as a cooperative partner, not a competitor ・Demonstrate understanding of the local market and a willingness to learn



Strategy 4: Setting and Negotiating Terms of Trade


Step-by-step business expansion plan

Phase 1: Test trading (1-3 months)

・Small-lot delivery of 5-10 items ・Test sales at a 30-50% discount on wholesale prices ・Sharing sales and customer reactions ・Optimizing delivery and packaging methods ・Establishing payment terms


Phase 2: Regular trading (3-6 months )

・Regular ordering system once or twice a month ・Medium lot support for 20-50 items ・Pre-order system for seasonal items ・Providing dedicated catalogs and materials ・Start of sales promotion support


Phase 3: Partnership (6 months onwards)

・Consideration of regional exclusivity ・Joint development of custom products ・Marketing cooperation ・Joint participation in exhibitions ・Conclusion of long-term contracts


Fair wholesale pricing


Typical wholesale pricing structure :


・50-60% of the suggested retail price (standard wholesale rate)
Quantity discounts: 5-10% additional discount for orders of 50 or more units. Pre-season orders: 5% discount for early orders. Exclusive deals: 10-15% special discount for regional exclusives. Payment terms: 2-3% discount for cash payments in advance.



Strategy 5: Building long-term relationships and expanding business


Providing value-added services



Marketing Support :


・Materials explaining the cultural background of the product (in the local language)
・Product knowledge training for sales staff ・Seasonal product promotion calendars ・Product photos and video materials for social media ・Cultural experience event planning for customers


Exclusive product development :

・Limited products only available at that store ・Customization to suit local tastes ・Store-original brand products ・Special products for seasons and events ・Improved products that reflect customer requests




Five principles for successful wholesale trading


1. Mutual benefit comes first


We always think about the success of our business partners, not just our own profits, and build win-win relationships.



2. Strict quality and delivery time management

We must build a reliable management system to prevent a loss of trust if there is even one problem with quality or delivery time.



3. Continuous communication

Maintain long-term partnerships through regular information exchange and market trend sharing



4. Deepening cultural understanding

Understand local culture, consumer psychology, and business practices, and respond flexibly to suit them.



5. Sustainable Growth Strategy

Adopt a strategy that emphasizes long-term market expansion and deepening relationships rather than short-term sales.


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