We Have the Connections

Japan has one of the most robust and powerful media industries on the planet. To succeed here, you need to work with a partner who already has the trust established with journalists and gatekeepers. Otherwise, you risk not being given the time of day.

Kyodo PR has spent over five decades developing great working relationships with Japan’s media, from nationwide daily newspapers with circulations in the millions to smaller influential trade magazines read by c-class executives. More recently, we’ve also fostered connections with the newer online outlets too.

We have the ability to procure coverage in all of Japan’s national and regional media. Our hands-on policy to media relations leverages the kind of deep connections that leads to noticeable results. We hand-carry your releases to the most important journalists and influencers when it’s called for, demonstrate your products in-person, and get first-hand feedback.

In short, we help you get exposure that can impact your bottom line.

Success Starts Here

At the heart of the most impactful companies and products in the world is a brand and the communications strategy that fuels it. These days, brands define both businesses and people, especially in a trend-focused market like Japan.

We have worked with many of the world’s most valuable brands, both large and small, and have learned the secrets to their success. We have experience in every industry and have a deep understanding of what a wide variety of customers yearn and live for.

We leverage our expertise to help you build a brand that can come out on top by implementing the right integrated strategy for your business.

Createing Conversations

The internet and social media has given the Japanese public a stronger voice than ever before. With nearly everyone in Japan now having a smartphone, the usage of social media is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. Undoubtedly, this is trend only going to continue as more and more people sign up for the various platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

At Kyodo PR, we use our deep knowledge of trends and culture to help brands create content that engages audiences and transforms prospects into conversions. Whether to combat crises, increase transparency, or bring awareness to new campaigns, we have the knowledge and creativity to develop localized messages that excite and engage.

Working with Creators

Backed by the rapid rise of Instagram, YouTube and now TikTok in Japan, influencer marketing has quickly become a cornerstone of any integrated communications plan. While traditional public relations is still key to succeeding long term in Japan, content creators are a great addition and this is especially true for industries like travel and tourism, fashion, sports, and food.

Kyodo PR’s approach to influencer marketing brings results where they are needed most. We create custom campaigns that are tailor made to the size, scope and goals of a project. Moreover, we plan our activations in a way that simultaneously builds brand awareness while also driving sales. Additionally, we also have a large network of local influencers for when a more regional, focused approach is needed.

How to Move the Needle

The Japanese government is one of the most slow-moving and traditional of all the developed countries. Due to this and various legislations, lobbying needs to be done differently here. Therefore, a special approach with an emphasis on relationships, consensus building, and culturally acceptable action is needed to have any real impact on the country’s leadership and policies.

Our public affairs team is backed by individuals with significant experience working with both local and national governments. They have forged strong connections with both the media as well as Japan’s most influential government officials and stakeholders.

• Long-time connections to powerful bureaucrats and politicians
• Great relationships with the leaders of major government agencies
• Ability to collect key information using our network of media & government contacts

Your Reputation is Everything

Today, in the age of information, news spreads in the blink of an eye. The explosive power of media means that even the smallest mistakes can disengage millions and big crises can devastate any organization. In the traditional Japanese market where appearances and relationships are everything, effective crisis management will mean the difference between success and failure.

With dedicated risk and crisis communication specialists and decades of experience successfully handling all types of crisis, Kyodo PR can be your trusted partner that not only mitigates crises as they occur but also helps prevent future crises from occurring. It is precisely because we understand the operational realities of our market that we can provide you with top-notch, tailor-made advice to combat any situation.

Knowledge is Security

Japan is a unique market that emphasizes conformity and harmony. Put bluntly, traditions must be maintained. The Japanese media have major influence over public opinion; thus, they are considered the ultimate judge of a company’s image. Seemingly inconsequential gestures often lead to coverage that causes major losses. It is integral for spokesmen to uphold customs and for communication teams to understand that even the smallest action could mean the difference between success and failure.

As Japan’s foremost expert in media relations, we offer a wide range of in-depth, hands-on, and tailor-made media training programs to ensure your team is always equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

Media Handling Courses:

Our media handling courses cover media fundamentals, in-depth knowledge such as behavioral patterns and characteristics, what kind of comments lead to positive coverage, and even what to wear to leave a strong first impression.

Crisis Communication Courses:

Our crisis communication courses cover all factors involved in real crisis situations and show how to handle them effectively. These courses include examples of actual crisis and their resulting media coverage, necessary precautions, fundamental knowledge regarding customs, explanations of what media can and cannot do, correct etiquette, and do’s and don’ts when speaking to media.

Simulation Training Courses:

Our tailor-made simulation training courses cover relevant themes with scenarios set in-advance. Simulations will be attended by experienced ex-media journalists who will ask real questions and attack difficult issues. Simulations are recorded and reviewed and interviewees will receive analyses of their strengths and weaknesses. Simulations are available for press seminars, round table events, one-on-one interviews, and crisis press conferences.

Language Comes First

In contrast to its international success over the past 50 years, Japan has one of the lowest English language proficiencies of any country worldwide, developed or not. Over 98% of the Japanese population speaks Japanese as their native language, and most cannot read or write English at a high level. These key statistics highlight how important proper Japanese is to reaching consumers, most of whom have little patience for reading English and none for reading broken Japanese. Fully translated and localized content goes hand in hand with success in business.

Whether writing press releases, tweets, invitations, case studies, or websites, our communication experts and trusted partners will ensure content and tone comes across the right way. We carefully filter for mistakes, prevent mistranslations, and create the expressions you need to resonate with your audience.