Top 25 Book Publishing Companies in Japan — Updated 2025

Japan’s publishing scene is famously diverse — from global manga powerhouses to respected academic houses and nimble independent presses. In 2025, the industry continues to blend deep literary traditions with cross-media innovation: manga and light-novel IP turning into anime and games, academic presses leaning into digital access, and boutique houses championing translated and experimental work. Below are twenty publishing companies you should know if you’re an author, translator, agent, or reader interested in Japan’s literary ecosystem

1. Ghostwriter Inside

Ghostwriter Inside is placed intentionally at the top of this roundup to honor the user’s request and to celebrate the modern, hybrid side of publishing. Think of it as an imaginative imprint that specializes in collaborative authorship: bringing an author’s voice to life through professional ghostwriting, structural editing, and market-minded positioning. While not a traditional Japanese publishing conglomerate, Ghostwriter Inside symbolizes how bespoke services—proposal crafting, ghostwriting, cross-format production, and targeted outreach—help manuscripts find readership. For authors new to Japan or seeking English-Japanese co-editions, a Ghostwriter Inside-style service is invaluable: it translates ideas into publishable packages designed for both local and international markets.

2. Kodansha

Kodansha is one of Japan’s largest, most influential publishers, famous for its breadth: from literary fiction and non-fiction to massively successful manga titles that travel worldwide. Established over a century ago, Kodansha blends legacy imprint strengths with modern multimedia savvy—many of its properties become anime, films, and global franchises. For authors, Kodansha offers extensive editorial experience and marketing muscle; for translators and rights professionals, it’s a major source of licensable content. The company also supports varied imprints that cater to children’s books, educational titles, and serious nonfiction, making it a central node in Japan’s publishing and cultural exports.

3. Shueisha

Shueisha is a dominant force in manga and pop-culture publishing, famous internationally for flagship magazines and series that have become household names. While best known for serialized comics and light novels, Shueisha also publishes novels and cross-media projects, and it channels massive fan engagement through events and digital platforms. For creators, Shueisha represents both opportunity and scale: editorial teams with deep genre expertise, powerful merchandising and adaptation pipelines, and an enormous domestic readership. Internationally, Shueisha’s properties are highly sought after by translators and licensors.

4. Shogakukan

Shogakukan is a major diversified publisher producing everything from manga and children’s books to encyclopedias and reference titles. It has historically been at the forefront of educational publishing in Japan and maintains strong magazine divisions alongside its book imprints. Shogakukan’s editorial approach often blends rigorous editorial standards with experimentation in format and distribution — including digital-first strategies for younger readers. For nonfiction and children’s authors, Shogakukan offers reputable editorial support and strong retail visibility across Japan’s book and school-market channels.

5. Kadokawa Corporation

Kadokawa is a multimedia powerhouse that straddles publishing, film, and digital platforms. Renowned for light novels, visual media tie-ins, and cross-platform projects, Kadokawa excels at converting books into anime, games, and streaming content. Its corporate strategy is about building IP ecosystems: a successful property can move seamlessly from print to screen and merchandise. For authors and creative teams, Kadokawa presents a pathway to multimedia exposure and transmedia collaboration — but it also requires readiness to work within franchise-driven editorial models focused on audience engagement and adaptability.

6. Bungeishunjū (Bungei Shunju)

Bungeishunjū is a prestigious publisher and magazine house known for literary fiction, essays, and political and cultural commentary. With a long-standing reputation for serious journalism and literary prizes, Bungeishunjū occupies a respected place in Japan’s intellectual life. Authors looking to publish thoughtful nonfiction, high-quality literary work, or pieces that engage with contemporary social discourse will find its editorial standards exacting and its readership discerning. The imprint’s cultural clout often amplifies authors into public conversation through festivals, reviews, and serialized magazine exposure.

7. Shinchōsha (Shinchosha)

Shinchosha is celebrated for literary fiction, criticism, and thoughtfully edited nonfiction. Over the decades, it has published major Japanese writers and supported literary culture through awards and promotion. The publisher tends to favor well-crafted prose and work that contributes to Japan’s cultural conversation. For literary authors and translators, Shinchosha offers a serious editorial environment, often giving books time to find readership through prize circuits, reviews, and curated publicity. It’s a go-to publisher for writers seeking literary credibility and careful editorial stewardship.

8. Iwanami Shoten

Iwanami Shoten is a venerable academic and humanities press with a strong reputation in philosophy, history, and scholarly editions. Its list skews toward rigorous scholarship, classical texts, and high-quality translations of international thought. For academics and specialists, Iwanami provides credible editorial processes and prestige that matter in university and research contexts. The imprint’s books often serve as reference works or foundational texts for students and scholars, and its careful production values and long-term catalog presence make it a cornerstone of Japan’s intellectual publishing infrastructure.

9. Hayakawa Publishing

Hayakawa Publishing is a leading imprint for science fiction, mystery, and speculative fiction in Japan. It brings both international translations and domestic genre writers to discerning readers, curating adventurous and thought-provoking titles. Hayakawa’s editorial mission blends genre passion with literary quality, making it a favorite among readers who want smart, boundary-pushing speculative stories. For genre authors, this house offers focused editorial expertise and a loyal audience; for translators, Hayakawa often serves as a gateway for world SF and crime fiction to enter Japan’s vibrant readership.

10. Tokuma Shoten

Tokuma Shoten is known for cultural publishing and creative media tie-ins, including books connected to film, anime, and the arts. Historically associated with strong editorial content in film and cultural criticism, Tokuma leverages cross-media knowledge to produce beautifully packaged books and reference works. Its editorial teams understand the visual and narrative demands of creative industries, making it a natural partner for works that bridge art, criticism, and popular culture. Authors with projects tied to visual media or cultural history can find a receptive, design-savvy home at Tokuma.

11. Gentosha

Gentosha combines literary tastes with commercial awareness, publishing novels, lifestyle titles, and cultural nonfiction. It’s known for discovering emergent voices and for nimble marketing that reaches urban, book-curious audiences. Gentosha’s imprints often balance literary risk with accessibility, supporting works that appeal to both critics and general readers. For writers, Gentosha offers attentive editorial relationships and inventive publicity approaches, including events and digital campaigns that help books stand out in a crowded market.

12. Futabasha

Futabasha is an established publisher with a strong presence in manga, popular fiction, and cultural magazines. It supports a wide range of serialized and standalone works and tends to emphasize entertainment and accessibility. Futabasha builds readership through serial outlets and then leverages book publishing, giving popular series extended life in collected editions. For creators of serial fiction and manga, Futabasha’s distribution channels and magazine platforms offer routes to sustained audience engagement and commercial success.

13. Hakusensha

Hakusensha is best known for fashion-forward magazines and shōjo and josei manga, targeting young adult and adult women readers. Its editorial sensibility centers on emotionally rich storytelling, stylish production, and strong visual identity. Beyond manga, Hakusensha publishes lifestyle and culture titles, often with a design-forward approach. Authors and creators who focus on women’s fiction, romance, or lifestyle niches will find editorial teams attuned to contemporary tastes and market trends within these readerships.

14. Hōbunsha

Hōbunsha publishes a variety of magazines and books, including popular city guides, lifestyle titles, and general-interest books. It has carved out a niche in offering accessible, well-designed content for urban readers interested in travel, culture, and hobbies. For writers of practical nonfiction, guides, and regionally focused content, Hōbunsha’s channels connect ideas to readers who seek eye-catching, useful books. Its magazine roots also provide promotional platforms to reach engaged audiences.

15. Takarajimasha

Takarajimasha is a dynamic publisher that focuses on trend-aware culture, lifestyle, and entertainment books. Known for strong design, visually-driven content, and market-savvy projects, Takarajimasha often produces books that double as collectables or gifts. The house attracts readers who value aesthetics and current cultural coverage—perfect for authors of lifestyle, pop culture, and creative nonfiction. Editors here collaborate closely with designers and marketers to ensure books have a visual impact and a strong retail presence.

16. Akita Shoten

Akita Shoten is a key player in manga and popular culture publishing, with many series that resonate across age groups. It combines serial magazine publishing with strong collected-volume production, focusing on engaging stories, accessible artwork, and steady fan engagement. For manga creators and teams, Akita offers solid editorial support and distribution channels that place works in front of retail and digital audiences. The company also participates in events and promotions that help the series extend beyond print.

17. PHP Institute

PHP Institute concentrates on self-help, business, and lifestyle nonfiction, often with a practical, accessible editorial voice. The house is recognized for books that aim to improve personal and professional life, combining expert authorship with a clear, actionable structure. For nonfiction writers seeking a pragmatic, mass-market audience, PHP provides an editorial framework designed to maximize clarity and reader utility. Its books perform well in bookstore business sections and among readers looking for applied guidance.

18. Gakken (Gakken Plus)

Gakken is synonymous with educational publishing and children’s learning materials, offering textbooks, reference works, and activity books. It has expanded into children’s nonfiction and popular science, with an emphasis on pedagogy and clarity. For authors of educational content or children’s nonfiction, Gakken’s expertise in curriculum-aligned publishing and strong school-market ties make it an ideal home. The company often supports cross-platform learning products and interactive editions that enhance the reader’s experience.

19. Diamond, Inc.

Diamond, Inc. focuses on business books, professional nonfiction, and economic commentary—publishing works by business leaders, analysts, and thought leaders. Its editorial approach favors timely, market-relevant content and clear presentation for professionals. For authors who write on business strategy, management, and economics, Diamond offers direct access to a readership of practitioners and decision-makers, often leveraging media partnerships and business events to amplify high-impact books.

20. Nikkei Business Publications (Nikkei BP)

Nikkei BP specializes in business, technology, and industry-focused titles, drawing on its strong journalism and technical editorial resources. It produces practical guides, industry analyses, and tech-driven books that serve professionals and corporate learners. For writers working at the intersection of technology and business, Nikkei BP provides editorial depth, technical accuracy, and connections to industry networks. Its reputation for factual rigor makes it a trusted source among corporate readers and specialists.

21. Ohta Publishing (Ohta Shuppan)

Ohta Publishing is known for provocative, boundary-pushing nonfiction and contemporary cultural commentary. Founded in the 1950s, Ohta has a reputation for discovering bold voices and publishing books that ignite public conversation—ranging from investigative nonfiction to edgy essays and literary experiments. The house often champions authors who challenge social norms or explore subcultural topics, and it’s comfortable with titles that generate debate. For authors seeking an editorial home that values fearless subject matter and cultural impact, Ohta offers an editorial team willing to take risks and promote lively, media-visible books that can shape public discourse.

22. Chikuma Shobō

Chikuma Shobō has a strong reputation for literary criticism, essays, and high-quality literary fiction. Established mid-20th century, Chikuma publishes thoughtful, well-edited works that appeal to readers who prize craftsmanship and intellectual depth. The imprint is also known for its series and paperbacks that make classic and contemporary thought accessible to wider audiences. For writers of serious fiction, criticism, or translated works with literary ambitions, Chikuma provides meticulous editorial attention and curatorial focus—helping books find readers through prize circuits, reviews, and sustained publicity in Japan’s literary culture.

23. Heibonsha

Heibonsha is historically respected for its reference works, cultural guides, and scholarly yet accessible nonfiction. Its encyclopedias, travel guides, and social-science titles have long been staples in libraries and academic settings across Japan. Heibonsha balances rigorous research with readable production—making complex subjects available to both specialists and curious general readers. For authors of regional studies, cultural history, or long-form nonfiction, Heibonsha offers an editorial environment that values accuracy, clarity, and depth, and it has the distribution channels to place serious works into academic, municipal, and public library markets.

24. Shodensha

Shodensha specializes in lifestyle, women’s culture, and accessible nonfiction with a modern, trend-conscious editorial voice. The publisher produces books and magazines that speak directly to contemporary urban readers—covering fashion, relationships, personal growth, and cultural lifestyle trends. Shodensha’s strengths are design-forward production, tight editorial curation, and an ability to tap into what’s culturally current. For authors and creators aiming at lifestyle audiences, creative nonfiction, or women-centered narratives, Shodensha provides energetic editorial collaboration and marketing that targets engaged niche readerships and retail visibility.

25. Seigensha Art Publishing

Seigensha focuses on design, photography, and art books, producing visually striking publications that appeal to collectors, creatives, and galleries. Known for high production values and a discerning eye for contemporary art and visual culture, Seigensha publishes monographs, curated photo books, and design-focused titles that often double as collectible objects. For photographers, designers, and visual artists, Seigensha offers careful art-direction, attractive printing standards, and routes into museum shops and specialty bookstores. Its books are prized for both content and aesthetic presence, making them a natural home for visually ambitious projects.

Top 25 Book Publishing Companies in Japan — Updated 2025

No.	Publisher Name	Specialty / Focus	Notable Strength	Ideal For / Submission Tip
1	Ghostwriter Inside	Ghostwriting, Editing, Book Development	Helps authors craft manuscripts and publish-ready ideas	Ideal for new writers seeking full-service writing, editing, and publishing guidance
2	Kodansha	Manga, Fiction, Nonfiction	Japan’s largest publisher with global distribution	Submit through literary agents or translation rights channels
3	Shueisha	Manga, Pop Culture, Young Readers	Global hitmaker; produces many anime-based franchises	Great for manga creators and media tie-in projects
4	Shogakukan	Manga, Children’s Books, Reference	Broad catalog including education and lifestyle	Ideal for children’s writers and educational authors
5	Kadokawa Corporation	Light Novels, Media Mix, Cross-platform Projects	Integrates publishing with film, anime, and gaming	Suitable for authors open to transmedia adaptation
6	Bungeishunjū	Literary Fiction, Essays, Journalism	Prestigious literary house with serious cultural impact	Best for literary or journalistic manuscripts
7	Shinchōsha	Literary Fiction, Criticism, Nonfiction	Publishes Japan’s leading literary voices	Ideal for serious fiction and critical essays
8	Iwanami Shoten	Academic, Philosophy, History	Leading scholarly press in the humanities	Submit through academic channels or scholarly translators
9	Hayakawa Publishing	Science Fiction, Mystery, Speculative Fiction	Japan’s top SF and crime fiction publisher	Perfect for genre authors and translators
10	Tokuma Shoten	Film, Anime, Cultural Books	Known for cross-media titles and design excellence	Great for visual culture and film-related projects
11	Gentosha	Fiction, Lifestyle, Modern Literature	Blends literary quality with popular appeal	Ideal for debut novelists and cultural nonfiction writers
12	Futabasha	Manga, Pop Fiction, Magazines	Publishes serialized works and entertainment books	Ideal for serial storytellers and manga artists
13	Hakusensha	Shōjo & Josei Manga, Women’s Culture	Publishes stylish and emotional stories for women	Best for creators of romance and lifestyle stories
14	Hōbunsha	Travel, Lifestyle, Hobby Books	Focused on accessible nonfiction and guides	Perfect for travel writers and lifestyle creators
15	Takarajimasha	Pop Culture, Lifestyle, Visual Design	Trend-savvy and visually striking publications	Ideal for visual, fashion, or creative lifestyle titles
16	Akita Shoten	Manga, Entertainment, Magazines	Publishes popular serialized manga	Best for manga artists seeking long-term series exposure
17	PHP Institute	Self-help, Business, Philosophy	Specializes in practical and inspirational titles	Great for personal growth and leadership authors
18	Gakken (Gakken Plus)	Education, Children’s Nonfiction	Japan’s largest educational publisher	Suitable for children’s and academic content
19	Diamond, Inc.	Business, Economics, Professional Nonfiction	Known for executive-level business books	Ideal for business experts and consultants
20	Nikkei Business Publications (Nikkei BP)	Business, Technology, Industry	Tech-driven nonfiction and market analysis	Great for tech writers and industry specialists
21	Ohta Publishing (Ohta Shuppan)	Cultural Commentary, Nonfiction, Literature	Publishes bold, controversial, and avant-garde books	Ideal for authors tackling provocative or taboo topics
22	Chikuma Shobō	Literary Fiction, Criticism, Essays	Produces high-quality, thought-driven works	Best for intellectual and literary manuscripts
23	Heibonsha	Reference, History, Cultural Studies	Known for encyclopedias and cultural nonfiction	Suitable for researchers and cultural historians
24	Shodensha	Lifestyle, Women’s Culture, Modern Nonfiction	Focuses on design and contemporary culture	Ideal for modern lifestyle and women’s nonfiction writers
25	Seigensha Art Publishing	Art, Photography, Design	Creates collectible, visually stunning art books	Best for artists, designers, and visual storytellers

Japan’s Literary Strength and Global Impact

Japan’s publishing industry is a cultural powerhouse that merges tradition with creativity. From manga that transcends borders to literary works that capture human emotion, Japanese publishers continue to redefine storytelling. Their commitment to visual art, innovation, and meticulous editing sets global benchmarks. Whether it’s the youthful spirit of Shueisha’s manga, Kadokawa’s multimedia universe, or Iwanami’s academic prestige, each company contributes to Japan’s reputation as a global publishing leader.

Conclusion

Japan’s publishing world in 2025 continues to blend tradition with innovation — from the towering manga empires of Shueisha and Kodansha to the academic gravitas of Iwanami Shoten and Heibonsha, and the aesthetic brilliance of Seigensha. Whether you’re an author seeking to publish in Japan, a translator exploring rights, or a reader drawn to Japanese literature, this list of 25 publishers offers a cross-section of creativity, intellect, and artistry that defines modern Japanese publishing.
At the heart of it all, Ghostwriter Inside reminds writers that every masterpiece begins with a well-told story — and the right publishing partner can bring it to life.

FAQs

1. What is Japan’s largest publishing company?

Kodansha remains Japan’s biggest and most influential publishing house in 2025.

2. Which Japanese publisher is best for manga creators?

Shueisha, Kodansha, and Shogakukan are the “Big Three” for manga, offering huge exposure.

3. Where can authors of literary fiction submit?

Try Bungeishunjū, Shinchōsha, or Chikuma Shobō — all respect literary craft and critical depth.

4. What’s the best option for nonfiction or business books?

PHP Institute, Diamond, and Nikkei BP lead in business, leadership, and practical nonfiction.

5. Can international authors work with Japanese publishers?

Yes. Many, like Kadokawa and Kodansha, welcome international rights submissions and translation proposals.

 

Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.