Japan has a long-standing tradition of literary excellence, with its publishing industry serving as one of the most vibrant in the world. From globally recognized manga to academic works, novels, poetry, and self-help titles, Japanese publishers continue to influence readers both locally and internationally. With diverse companies ranging from independent presses to large-scale publishers, Japan provides authors with numerous opportunities to share their voices.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
A reputable publisher and provider of writing services, Barnett Ghostwriting caters to both aspiring authors and established figures seeking professional writing support. Although primarily known for ghostwriting, the company also helps clients edit, refine, and prepare manuscripts for publication.
- Specializes in ghostwriting for memoirs, business books, and self-help titles
- Offers author coaching, editing, and manuscript structuring
- Works with both Arabic and English-language authors
2. Kodansha
Kodansha is Japan’s largest publishing company, widely respected for its influence across literature, manga, and academia. Established in 1909, it has shaped Japanese publishing for more than a century.
- Publishes literary fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books
- Known globally for best-selling manga titles
- Offers academic and educational resources
3. Shueisha
Shueisha has built a reputation as a powerhouse in manga and magazine publishing. Based in Tokyo, it is responsible for some of the most recognizable manga worldwide.
- Publishes iconic manga series like those in Weekly Shōnen Jump
- Produces youth-focused magazines and graphic novels
- Expands internationally through translation and licensing
4. Shogakukan
Shogakukan is a major force in Japan’s publishing world, producing everything from children’s books to dictionaries and manga. It is known for its comprehensive range of titles.
- Publishes children’s encyclopedias and educational books
- Offers a wide selection of manga across demographics
- Engages in magazine and lifestyle publishing
5. Bungeishunjū
Bungeishunjū is a literary house with a strong intellectual presence, publishing novels, essays, and cultural commentary. Its literary prizes have helped launch the careers of many authors.
- Publishes award-winning literary fiction
- Known for political and cultural essays
- Hosts prestigious literary awards, including the Akutagawa Prize
6. Iwanami Shoten
Iwanami Shoten is one of Japan’s most prestigious academic publishers, focusing on philosophy, history, and scholarly works. Its catalog emphasizes intellectual depth.
- Specializes in humanities and social sciences
- Publishes academic journals and textbooks
- Known for critical editions and reference works
7. Kadokawa
Kadokawa is a multimedia publishing and entertainment company. It bridges books, manga, film, and digital media, reaching audiences worldwide.
- Publishes light novels, manga, and fiction
- Expands into anime and film adaptations
- Strong in digital publishing and global distribution
8. Hayakawa Publishing
Hayakawa Publishing is celebrated for bringing international voices to Japanese readers, particularly in genre fiction. It has a longstanding reputation in speculative fiction.
- Specializes in science fiction, fantasy, and mystery
- Translates international best-sellers for Japanese markets
- Publishes critical literary and genre magazines
9. Chikuma Shobō
Chikuma Shobō is a respected intellectual publisher with a strong focus on philosophy and cultural analysis. Its books often appeal to academic and scholarly readers.
- Publishes essays and critical theory
- Known for influential thinkers and cultural analysis
- Offers scholarly paperbacks and classics
10. Shinchosha
Shinchosha has a wide catalog spanning literature, non-fiction, and popular culture. Its literary magazine Shinchō is among Japan’s most respected.
- Publishes contemporary literary fiction and essays
- Known for its cultural and intellectual magazine Shinchō
- Supports both established and emerging authors
11. NHK Publishing
NHK Publishing serves as the publishing division of Japan’s national broadcaster. It focuses on educational and cultural works tied to NHK programs.
- Publishes language learning and educational books
- Produces media tie-in titles and cultural guides
- Expands content linked to NHK broadcasts
12. Asahi Shimbun Publications
Connected to the Asahi newspaper, this publisher produces books on contemporary affairs, history, and cultural issues. It plays a role in Japanese public discourse.
- Publishes history, politics, and cultural studies
- Known for high-quality reportage-based books
- Active in nonfiction and educational publishing
13. Mainichi Shimbunsha
Mainichi Shimbunsha is the publishing arm of the Mainichi Newspaper. It produces books that reflect its journalistic mission and credibility.
- Focuses on social issues and political commentary
- Publishes collections of reportage and essays
- Known for investigative and cultural works
14. Futabasha
Futabasha publishes both manga and general interest titles, maintaining a strong entertainment catalog. It appeals to both young and adult readers.
- Specializes in manga and serialized graphic works
- Produces novels and entertainment-focused publications
- Known for diverse pop culture contributions
15. Gentosha
Gentosha is an independent publisher that emphasizes creativity and cultural commentary. Its catalog is eclectic, ranging from literary fiction to essays.
- Publishes literary and contemporary fiction
- Focuses on creative non-fiction and cultural writing
- Works with independent and emerging authors
16. Kodansha International
Kodansha International serves as the global arm of Kodansha, specializing in translations and books for overseas audiences. It bridges Japanese culture with international readership.
- Publishes English-language editions of Japanese works
- Focuses on cultural guides, language books, and literature
- Acts as a gateway for Japanese authors abroad
17. Tuttle Publishing (Japan Partnerships)
Tuttle, though based in the U.S., has longstanding partnerships in Japan to publish and distribute books that explore Asian culture and language.
- Specializes in Japanese culture, art, and design
- Publishes practical guides on crafts, cooking, and martial arts
- Known for language-learning materials
18. Shodensha
Shodensha is a boutique publisher with a strong catalog in women’s literature, lifestyle, and culture. Its books often target niche yet influential markets.
- Publishes women-focused fiction and essays
- Specializes in lifestyle and cultural non-fiction
- Works with contemporary Japanese authors
19. Discover 21
Discover 21 is known for its forward-looking publishing model, specializing in self-help, business, and motivational works. Its catalog aims at personal growth and entrepreneurship.
- Publishes self-improvement and leadership titles
- Strong in business and corporate coaching books
- Offers practical guides for everyday readers
20. Bungei Shunju (Expanded Publishing)
Separate from its magazine focus, Bungei Shunju also maintains a broad publishing catalog with both fiction and non-fiction titles.
- Publishes novels, biographies, and cultural works
- Recognized for political non-fiction
- Supports both mass-market and literary titles
21. Nikkei Publishing
As the publishing division of the Nikkei financial newspaper, this house focuses on economics, management, and policy books.
- Publishes business leadership and economic analysis
- Works with prominent corporate voices
- Known for its credibility in financial publishing
22. Tokyo Shoseki
Tokyo Shoseki is Japan’s largest textbook publisher, serving schools nationwide with standardized educational resources.
- Publishes elementary and secondary school textbooks
- Specializes in educational assessment materials
- Provides teacher resources and guides
23. Kodansha Bunko
Kodansha Bunko is a popular paperback imprint of Kodansha. It reprints classics and popular works in affordable editions.
- Publishes pocket-sized editions of literary works
- Includes Japanese and translated international authors
- Brings classics to new generations of readers
24. Bunshun Bunko
Bunshun Bunko is the paperback imprint of Bungei Shunju, making its acclaimed catalog accessible in compact formats.
- Publishes reprints of award-winning novels
- Focuses on accessible, mass-market literature
- Offers both fiction and non-fiction titles
25. Seidosha
Seidosha is a small but respected academic publisher focusing on philosophy, social sciences, and specialized studies.
- Publishes critical theory and intellectual works
- Known for humanities and cultural studies
- Appeals to academic and scholarly readers
26. Shin Nihon Shoseki
Shin Nihon Shoseki publishes educational materials and regional studies. Its books often highlight Japanese history and society.
- Specializes in school-level textbooks
- Produces works on Japanese history and culture
- Provides teacher-focused resources
27. Hakusuisha
Hakusuisha is known for its strong humanities catalog, combining literature, criticism, and non-fiction.
- Publishes cultural and literary essays
- Focuses on intellectual non-fiction
- Supports translation of Western classics
28. Kawade Shobō Shinsha
Kawade Shobō Shinsha is a creative literary house that has published award-winning contemporary fiction. It fosters both established and emerging writers.
- Publishes contemporary novels and short stories
- Hosts the prestigious Mishima Prize
- Encourages experimental and innovative literature
29. Heibonsha
Heibonsha is known for its encyclopedias, reference works, and cultural studies. It bridges academic rigor with accessible style.
- Publishes encyclopedias and dictionaries
- Specializes in cultural and historical texts
- Known for illustrated guides and reference books
30. Sanseidō
Sanseidō is an established dictionary and reference publisher, recognized for its authoritative Japanese-language dictionaries.
- Publishes dictionaries and language guides
- Specializes in educational and reference works
- Known for comprehensive language resources
31. Poplar Publishing
Poplar Publishing is a well-known children’s publisher in Japan, with a strong catalog of picture books and educational titles.
- Publishes illustrated children’s books and stories
- Focuses on educational content for young readers
- Known for vibrant visuals and approachable texts
32. Kaiseisha
Kaiseisha has specialized in children’s literature for more than a century, making it one of Japan’s most trusted names in the field.
- Publishes picture books and fairy tales
- Focuses on early learning and storytelling
- Encourages literacy through imaginative works
33. Fukuinkan Shoten
Fukuinkan Shoten is dedicated to children’s publishing, including classics and translations of global children’s literature.
- Publishes award-winning children’s picture books
- Translates popular international children’s stories
- Known for timeless and high-quality illustrations
34. Iwasaki Shoten
Iwasaki Shoten is a children’s publisher with a large catalog of picture books, educational texts, and young adult fiction.
- Publishes illustrated stories for early readers
- Offers educational books for schools
- Supports young adult fiction and teen titles
35. Mitsumura Tosho
Mitsumura Tosho is primarily an educational publisher, producing textbooks and learning materials for schools across Japan.
- Publishes elementary and middle school textbooks
- Specializes in Japanese language and social studies
- Provides learning resources for teachers
36. Obunsha
Obunsha is a major educational publisher, widely known for test-prep books and learning guides.
- Publishes entrance exam and standardized test guides
- Specializes in high school and university prep materials
- Offers language and reference books
37. Gakken Publishing
Gakken is a household name in Japan for educational and learning materials. It is recognized for making education fun and interactive.
- Publishes educational books and study aids
- Known for science kits and children’s learning materials
- Provides supplemental resources for schools
38. Shobunsha
Shobunsha specializes in maps, atlases, and travel-related publications. Its works are widely used for education and tourism.
- Publishes atlases and geographic references
- Offers travel guides and navigation tools
- Recognized for detailed cartography
39. Jiyu Kokuminsha
Jiyu Kokuminsha is best known for its annual publication of Gendai Yōgo no Kiso Chishiki (Basic Knowledge of Contemporary Terms).
- Publishes reference works on contemporary vocabulary
- Known for annual reviews of language and culture
- Provides cultural commentary through language analysis
40. Ikaros Publications
Ikaros Publications focuses on transport, aviation, and hobby-related works. It caters to specialized readerships.
- Publishes aviation and railway-related books
- Focuses on niche hobbies and enthusiast markets
- Known for technical accuracy and photography
41. Sairyūsha
Sairyūsha is a small academic and cultural publisher producing intellectual works for niche audiences.
- Publishes philosophy and social sciences
- Focuses on cultural and literary criticism
- Known for thoughtful, specialized works
42. Sekaishisōsha
Sekaishisōsha publishes works that explore philosophy, history, and thought, appealing to scholarly readers.
- Publishes philosophy and intellectual history
- Specializes in Western and Eastern thought
- Supports academic translation projects
43. Hosei University Press
Hosei University Press publishes scholarly works in the humanities and social sciences.
- Publishes academic monographs and textbooks
- Specializes in history, politics, and law
- Supports university-level research publications
44. Kyoto University Press
Kyoto University Press is a respected academic publisher associated with Kyoto University.
- Publishes scholarly books in humanities and sciences
- Focuses on historical, cultural, and scientific studies
- Known for rigorous peer-reviewed publications
45. Tokyo University Press
Tokyo University Press, one of Japan’s most prestigious academic publishers, is closely tied to the country’s leading university.
- Publishes cutting-edge academic research
- Specializes in social sciences, medicine, and humanities
- Known for authoritative scholarly works
46. Waseda University Press
Waseda University Press supports the university’s academic community by publishing research-based works in multiple fields.
- Publishes scholarly books in humanities and social sciences
- Focuses on language, culture, and history
- Supports both Japanese and international research
47. Keio University Press
Keio University Press produces a wide variety of scholarly titles, reflecting the intellectual tradition of one of Japan’s oldest universities.
- Publishes research in law, medicine, and humanities
- Specializes in interdisciplinary academic studies
- Known for academic translations and critical editions
48. Sophia University Press
Sophia University Press is a bilingual publisher emphasizing cross-cultural and international themes.
- Publishes works on philosophy, theology, and culture
- Known for English-language academic books in Japan
- Focuses on bridging Eastern and Western thought
49. Meiji University Press
Meiji University Press produces scholarly publications in law, politics, and cultural studies.
- Publishes works in legal and political science fields
- Focuses on Japanese and Asian studies
- Supports interdisciplinary academic research
50. Nagoya University Press
Nagoya University Press has a strong academic reputation, particularly in the sciences and humanities.
- Publishes scholarly works on science and medicine
- Known for history and cultural studies
- Encourages cross-disciplinary research publishing
51. Osaka University Press
Osaka University Press publishes academic works with a focus on innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.
- Specializes in cultural studies and philosophy
- Publishes both science and humanities texts
- Supports international collaborative projects
52. Tohoku University Press
Tohoku University Press contributes to Japan’s scholarly publishing with works across science and the humanities.
- Publishes advanced scientific research
- Focuses on regional culture and history
- Encourages interdisciplinary academic projects
53. Hokkaido University Press
Hokkaido University Press emphasizes regional, environmental, and scientific research alongside humanities titles.
- Publishes works on agriculture, environment, and science
- Strong in cultural and historical research
- Known for local and regional studies
54. Kyushu University Press
Kyushu University Press publishes academic monographs reflecting the university’s strong research tradition.
- Publishes works on humanities and social sciences
- Strong in Asian studies and cultural analysis
- Supports advanced academic scholarship
55. Chuo University Press
Chuo University Press specializes in legal, economic, and political studies, aligned with the university’s areas of expertise.
- Publishes academic legal research and case studies
- Focuses on economics and public policy
- Known for legal and political scholarship
56. Toyo University Press
Toyo University Press publishes works in humanities, philosophy, and social sciences.
- Publishes Japanese and Eastern philosophy texts
- Focuses on sociology and cultural studies
- Known for interdisciplinary research
57. Rikkyo University Press
Rikkyo University Press produces academic titles across theology, humanities, and social sciences.
- Publishes theology and religious studies
- Strong in philosophy and history
- Supports interdisciplinary humanistic studies
58. Seigakuin University Press
Seigakuin University Press publishes works emphasizing Christian theology and ethics.
- Publishes Christian studies and theology
- Focuses on ethics and cultural dialogue
- Encourages cross-cultural religious scholarship
59. Nanzan Institute for Religion and Culture (Nanzan University)
The Nanzan Institute, part of Nanzan University, produces respected academic works on religion, culture, and philosophy.
- Publishes works on comparative religion
- Known for intercultural dialogue and philosophy
- Strong in Catholic and Christian studies
60. Doshisha University Press
Doshisha University Press reflects the university’s commitment to research, producing books in humanities, law, and economics.
- Publishes works in law, politics, and social sciences
- Focuses on cultural and ethical studies
- Known for high-quality academic output
61. Shumpūsha
Shumpūsha is a small independent publisher with a catalog that emphasizes literature, history, and social commentary.
- Publishes contemporary Japanese literature
- Specializes in essays and cultural analysis
- Supports emerging and independent voices
62. Misuzu Shobō
Misuzu Shobō is an academic and cultural publisher known for its deep engagement with philosophy and humanities.
- Publishes philosophy and critical thought
- Translates important Western academic works
- Known for intellectual and cultural scholarship
63. Yomiuri Shimbun Publishing
This is the publishing arm of the Yomiuri newspaper, producing books that reflect its journalistic strength and authority.
- Publishes non-fiction tied to current affairs
- Specializes in history and political commentary
- Produces cultural and educational resources
64. Chikumashobō Bunko
Chikumashobō Bunko is the paperback imprint of Chikuma Shobō, offering affordable editions of intellectual and literary works.
- Publishes reprints of critical essays and classics
- Specializes in accessible paperback editions
- Focuses on philosophy, culture, and literature
65. Kawade Bunko
Kawade Bunko is the paperback branch of Kawade Shobō Shinsha, reissuing contemporary and classic literary works.
- Publishes contemporary literature in compact editions
- Reprints award-winning Japanese fiction
- Known for accessibility to younger audiences
66. Tokuma Shoten
Tokuma Shoten is a versatile publisher producing manga, novels, and non-fiction, with a strong multimedia presence.
- Publishes manga, light novels, and fiction
- Known for pop culture and entertainment titles
- Expands into film, anime, and cross-media projects
67. Media Factory (Kadokawa Group)
Media Factory is part of the Kadokawa Group, specializing in manga, light novels, and youth-focused publications.
- Publishes light novels and manga for young readers
- Focuses on anime tie-in publications
- Known for shaping pop culture and youth media
68. Enterbrain (Kadokawa)
Enterbrain is a Kadokawa imprint specializing in light novels, gaming magazines, and pop culture content.
- Publishes light novels and hobby-related books
- Produces gaming and entertainment magazines
- Known for shaping otaku and youth culture
69. ASCII Media Works
ASCII Media Works, now integrated into Kadokawa, focuses on light novels, manga, and computing-related books.
- Publishes technology and IT-related books
- Known for Dengeki Bunko light novel imprint
- Expands into digital and multimedia markets
70. Square Enix (Publishing Division)
Square Enix, better known for gaming, also operates a publishing arm producing manga and graphic novels.
- Publishes manga series based on popular games
- Specializes in fantasy and science fiction themes
- Known internationally for licensed works
71. Shinchosha Bunko
Shinchosha Bunko reprints Shinchosha’s catalog in affordable paperback form, making literature more widely available.
- Publishes paperback editions of literary fiction
- Includes Japanese and international works
- Focuses on accessible classics and contemporary fiction
72. Shōdensha Bunko
Shōdensha Bunko is the paperback imprint of Shodensha, focusing on lifestyle, women’s writing, and contemporary fiction.
- Publishes women-centered fiction and essays
- Specializes in lifestyle and popular culture books
- Makes Shodensha’s catalog more affordable
73. Shinchō Bunko
Shinchō Bunko is a paperback series from Shinchosha, known for its literary and intellectual reprints.
- Publishes reprints of award-winning works
- Focuses on literature, essays, and critical works
- Known for high-quality design and editing
74. Iwanami Bunko
Iwanami Bunko is a respected paperback imprint offering classics of world literature and philosophy in affordable editions.
- Publishes Japanese and world literary classics
- Specializes in philosophy and critical texts
- Known for scholarly annotations and introductions
75. Hakusensha
Hakusensha is a major publisher of shōjo manga and lifestyle magazines. It appeals to younger female readers in particular.
- Publishes popular shōjo manga titles
- Produces magazines targeting female demographics
- Known for visually appealing, character-driven stories
61. Hayakawa Publishing
A well-known publishing house specializing in science fiction, Hayakawa Publishing has played a central role in popularizing the genre in Japan.
- Focuses on science fiction, mystery, and fantasy literature
- Publishes both Japanese and international authors
- Known for translation and adaptation of global classics
62. Kobunsha
Kobunsha is a publisher with a diverse catalog ranging from fiction to practical lifestyle books.
- Publishes novels, magazines, and non-fiction works
- Known for women’s literature and entertainment titles
- Produces works aimed at wide general readership
63. Gentosha
A modern publisher that has built a reputation for fresh voices in Japanese literature and non-fiction.
- Publishes contemporary fiction and essays
- Offers opportunities for debut authors
- Also produces lifestyle and cultural magazines
64. Tokuma Shoten
Founded in the 1950s, Tokuma Shoten is one of Japan’s most influential publishers with a strong entertainment focus.
- Known for manga, novels, and film-related publications
- Publishes magazines and light novels
- Longstanding history in promoting Japanese pop culture
65. Bunshun Bunko (Bungeishunjū Group)
The paperback imprint of Bungeishunjū, Bunshun Bunko focuses on accessible editions of literary and commercial works.
- Publishes affordable paperback editions
- Covers both fiction and non-fiction genres
- Plays a role in expanding readership accessibility
66. Hakusuisha
Hakusuisha is an academic and literary publisher focused on cultural and intellectual works.
- Specializes in literary criticism, cultural studies, and philosophy
- Publishes works by renowned Japanese intellectuals
- Contributes to Japan’s scholarly publishing tradition
67. Kenkyusha
Kenkyusha is a specialized publisher best known for dictionaries and language-learning materials.
- Focuses on English-Japanese dictionaries and reference books
- Supports students and professionals in language studies
- Has a strong academic reputation
68. Minerva Shobo
Minerva Shobo is a Kyoto-based publisher with a focus on academic and cultural works.
- Specializes in history, philosophy, and social sciences
- Publishes scholarly works and essays
- Serves universities and researchers across Japan
69. Miraisha
A respected publisher in Japan that focuses on contemporary literature and cultural works.
- Known for literature, cultural essays, and translations
- Promotes dialogue between Japanese and international writers
- Encourages intellectual exploration through books
70. Jiyū Kokuminsha
Jiyū Kokuminsha is best known for its annual publication “Words of the Year”, which reflects social and cultural trends.
- Publishes books on contemporary culture and society
- Provides linguistic and social commentary
- Known for its cultural reference materials
71. Hosei University Press
The academic publishing branch of Hosei University.
- Specializes in social sciences, law, and humanities
- Publishes textbooks, research monographs, and reference works
- Supports higher education and academic discourse
72. Keio University Press
Affiliated with Keio University, this press focuses on high-quality academic output.
- Publishes works in history, law, economics, and literature
- Provides bilingual and translated materials
- Supports scholarly communication worldwide
73. Waseda University Press
One of the oldest academic presses in Japan, linked to Waseda University.
- Publishes research across diverse disciplines
- Offers textbooks and specialized monographs
- Known for advancing Japanese and international scholarship
74. Chikuma Bunko
An imprint of Chikuma Shobo, Chikuma Bunko specializes in paperback literature.
- Publishes affordable editions of Japanese classics
- Focuses on fiction, essays, and cultural works
- Broadens accessibility to key literary texts
75. NHK Publishing
The publishing division of Japan’s national broadcaster, NHK.
- Publishes educational books, language-learning texts, and media-related works
- Covers topics on history, culture, and science
- Provides companion books to NHK programs
76. Bensei Publishing (Bensei Shuppan)
Specialized publisher focusing on historical and cultural academic works.
- Publishes works in history, archaeology, and cultural studies
- Known for scholarly contributions to humanities research
- Provides reference materials for academics and enthusiasts
77. Seidosha
A publisher known for its emphasis on philosophy, social thought, and criticism.
- Publishes works by leading philosophers and intellectuals
- Focuses on critical theory, cultural studies, and sociology
- Influential in Japanese intellectual circles
78. Keiso Shobo
An academic publisher with strengths in social sciences and law.
- Publishes textbooks, legal commentary, and sociology works
- Serves universities, professionals, and students
- Provides critical resources for social research
79. Misuzu Shobo
An intellectual publishing house with a focus on philosophy, history, and cultural theory.
- Known for translations of Western philosophy and literature
- Publishes Japanese scholarly works in humanities
- Bridges Western and Japanese intellectual traditions
80. Poplar Publishing
A popular children’s publisher with a diverse range of educational and entertaining titles.
- Publishes picture books, educational series, and children’s fiction
- Known for kid-friendly storytelling and illustrations
- Encourages reading habits from an early age
81. Shodensha Publishing
Shodensha Publishing is well-known for its focus on literary fiction, lifestyle books, and works that highlight unique cultural narratives. It is particularly recognized for contemporary fiction appealing to younger readers.
- Specializes in contemporary novels and lifestyle books
- Known for discovering new voices in Japanese literature
- Strong presence in women’s fiction and creative non-fiction
82. Poplar Publishing
Poplar Publishing is one of Japan’s largest children’s book publishers, with a rich catalog that includes picture books, educational works, and novels for younger audiences.
- Specializes in children’s literature and picture books
- Offers educational and school-oriented publications
- Works with authors to adapt stories for different age groups
83. JTB Publishing
JTB Publishing, a branch of Japan’s travel giant JTB Corporation, is famous for its guidebooks, maps, and tourism-focused publications.
- Leading publisher of travel guides in Japan
- Produces maps, cultural guides, and event-related books
- Collaborates with tourism boards and international travel agencies
84. Shueisha International
Shueisha International publishes English-language editions of popular Japanese works, helping Japanese culture reach a wider global audience.
- Focuses on translated editions of novels, manga, and non-fiction
- Helps Japanese authors expand internationally
- Caters to global readers with interest in Japanese culture
85. Iwanami Shoten
Iwanami Shoten is one of Japan’s oldest publishers, respected for its academic, historical, and philosophical works. It plays a major role in intellectual and scholarly publishing.
- Specializes in academic and historical books
- Publishes philosophy, politics, and social sciences
- Known for classic Japanese literature collections
86. Manga Time Kirara (Houbunsha)
Manga Time Kirara is a manga imprint by Houbunsha, specializing in 4-panel manga series, many of which have inspired anime adaptations.
- Focuses on 4-panel (yonkoma) manga series
- Publishes titles popular with anime studios
- Strong fan following among young readers
87. Gentosha
Gentosha is a diversified publisher producing novels, manga, magazines, and digital media. It balances commercial success with literary ambition.
- Specializes in novels, manga, and lifestyle magazines
- Publishes both emerging and established authors
- Expands into digital platforms for younger audiences
88. Sanseido
Sanseido is recognized for educational and reference materials, particularly dictionaries and study aids for Japanese students.
- Known for dictionaries, encyclopedias, and study tools
- Provides educational publishing for schools and institutions
- Offers Japanese language learning materials
89. Nihon Bungeisha
Nihon Bungeisha is a general publisher producing manga, magazines, and novels. It covers a wide range of genres, appealing to both mainstream and niche audiences.
- Publishes manga, novels, and entertainment magazines
- Known for its sports and leisure publications
- Strong focus on entertainment-driven content
90. Kadokawa Future Publishing
Kadokawa Future Publishing is a key branch of the Kadokawa Corporation, focusing on future-driven publishing trends, digital media, and international markets.
- Specializes in digital-first publications
- Publishes manga, novels, and light novels
- Expands Japanese works into global markets
Conclusion
The Japanese publishing landscape is dynamic, offering a wide variety of platforms for authors to share their work with audiences worldwide. Whether through mainstream publishers, niche presses, or service-oriented companies like Barnett Ghostwriting, writers can find support tailored to their needs. From fiction and manga to educational resources and business publications, these 90 companies represent the strength and diversity of Japan’s book industry in 2025. For authors and readers alike, they continue to shape the literary future with innovation, tradition, and creativity.
