Japanese entrepreneur reflects on transformative year in Bengaluru

Bengaluru has been a life-changing experience for Naotaka Nishiyama, a Japanese entrepreneur and founder of Tech Japan, who recently marked a year since relocating to India. In a widely appreciated LinkedIn post, Nishiyama reflected on the challenges, cultural shifts, and business lessons he gained during his time in the country.

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Arriving in Bengaluru in March 2024 with just a suitcase and aspirations, Nishiyama quickly realized he was among the few Japanese entrepreneurs in India. Unlike corporate expatriates from Japan’s automotive, banking, or electronics sectors, he navigated a unique path as a startup founder. His journey was marked by moments of cultural discovery and the challenge of establishing a lesser-known company in a highly dynamic business environment.

Over the past year, Nishiyama embraced India’s complexities, unpredictability, and diversity, which reshaped his entrepreneurial mindset. He adapted to the fast-paced changes and learned to create value amid uncertainty, a shift from the stability-driven approach he was accustomed to.

Acknowledging the ambition and energy of India’s younger generation, Nishiyama expressed optimism about the opportunities the country presents. His reflections struck a chord with many online, as his post gathered thousands of reactions and comments, with users resonating with his insights on India’s vibrant and evolving landscape.