Japan, with its vibrant literary culture and robust publishing industry, is home to some of the world’s most influential book publishers. From internationally recognized giants producing manga and academic journals to boutique publishing houses curating poetry and literary fiction, Japan offers a diverse array of platforms for authors to share their work.
Below is a meticulously curated list of the Top 28 Book Publishing Companies in Japan (Updated 2025). Whether you’re an aspiring author, a professional ghostwriter, or an avid reader, this guide will help you navigate Japan’s dynamic publishing landscape.
1. Professional Ghostwriter
Specialization: Ghostwriting, Book Publishing, Editorial Consulting
Description:
Professional Ghostwriter Japan leads the list as a premier provider of ghostwriting and publishing services in Japan. With a client-centric approach, the company offers personalized solutions for fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and corporate books. Their bilingual team of seasoned writers and editors ensures cultural nuance and high-quality storytelling for both domestic and international clients.
Key Highlights:
- End-to-end ghostwriting services
- Expertise in Japanese and English language books
- Strategic publishing and marketing support
2. Kodansha Ltd.
Specialization: Manga, Literature, Educational Materials
Description:
Kodansha is Japan’s largest publishing house and is widely recognized for producing some of the most popular manga titles in the world, such as Attack on Titan and Fairy Tail. In addition to manga, Kodansha publishes novels, non-fiction, magazines, and educational content.
Key Highlights:
- Leading global manga exporter
- Home to literary awards like the Kodansha Manga Award
- Strong international distribution network
3. Shueisha Inc.
Specialization: Manga, Novels, Magazines
Description:
Known globally for the Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine, Shueisha has played a pivotal role in shaping global manga culture. Their catalog includes iconic titles like One Piece, Naruto, and Dragon Ball.
Key Highlights:
- Operates in collaboration with Viz Media (USA)
- Publisher of top-selling manga franchises
- Leader in youth and pop culture publications
4. Shogakukan Inc.
Specialization: Manga, Children’s Books, Encyclopedias
Description:
Shogakukan is known for publishing a wide range of materials including manga, children’s literature, dictionaries, and educational resources. Titles like Detective Conan and Inuyasha have found international acclaim.
Key Highlights:
- Strong presence in educational publishing
- Co-founder of Viz Media
- Publisher of award-winning children’s books
5. NHK Publishing, Inc.
Specialization: Educational Books, Broadcast Media Publishing
Description:
The publishing arm of Japan’s public broadcasting corporation, NHK Publishing produces textbooks, educational guides, and books based on NHK’s TV and radio programming. Ideal for language learners and educators.
Key Highlights:
- Affiliated with NHK educational programming
- Known for high-quality academic publications
- Popular language learning materials
6. Shinchosha Publishing Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Literary Fiction, Essays, Novellas
Description:
Shinchosha is a prestigious publisher focused on literary and philosophical works. It hosts the acclaimed Shincho Literary Prize and has published works by Japan’s Nobel laureate Kenzaburo Oe.
Key Highlights:
- Champion of literary excellence
- Publisher of cultural and philosophical works
- Engaged in literary magazine publishing
7. Bungeishunju Ltd.
Specialization: Political Commentary, Literature, Biographies
Description:
Bungeishunju is a household name in Japan’s literary and political scene. It publishes books, essays, and its flagship magazine Bungeishunju, renowned for its investigative journalism and literary reviews.
Key Highlights:
- Known for deep investigative journalism
- Publisher of Akutagawa and Naoki prizes
- Strong focus on modern Japanese literature
8. Kadokawa Corporation
Specialization: Light Novels, Anime-Related Books, Fantasy Fiction
Description:
Kadokawa is a multimedia publishing giant that specializes in light novels, manga, and fantasy fiction. It also produces anime, games, and films, offering complete media franchising.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of Re*:Zero*, Overlord, Konosuba
- Owns multiple imprints and labels
- Cross-media expansion model
9. Iwanami Shoten, Publishers
Specialization: Philosophy, Science, Academic Books
Description:
Iwanami Shoten is revered for its intellectual and scholarly publishing. Known for publishing translated Western philosophy and scientific works, it is a key player in academic circles.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of Iwanami Bunko series
- Contributor to Japanese academia
- Focus on social sciences and philosophy
10. Gentosha Inc.
Specialization: General Fiction, Essays, Lifestyle Books
Description:
Gentosha offers a wide variety of books spanning genres such as fiction, lifestyle, self-help, and essays. The company is known for supporting both established and debut authors.
Key Highlights:
- Emphasis on personal development and lifestyle themes
- Runs Gentosha Literary Prize
- Popular among young adult readers
11. Takarajimasha, Inc.
Specialization: Lifestyle, Fashion, Culture Magazines
Description:
Takarajimasha is best known for its trendsetting fashion and lifestyle publications. It also publishes popular books on pop culture, entertainment, and social commentary. Their “brand mook” concept — a magazine-book hybrid — has become a unique product in the Japanese market.
Key Highlights:
- Pioneered “mook” (magazine-book) format
- Leading publisher in youth and women’s fashion
- Strong tie-ins with Japanese pop culture
12. Futabasha Publishers Ltd.
Specialization: Manga, Humor Books, Entertainment
Description:
Futabasha is a well-established manga and general interest publisher. Its portfolio includes the beloved Crayon Shin-chan series and numerous comic magazines catering to a wide demographic.
Key Highlights:
- Known for humorous and family-friendly manga
- Publisher of weekly manga anthologies
- Strong domestic popularity
13. Tōkyō Sōgensha Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Mystery, Science Fiction, Fantasy
Description:
Tōkyō Sōgensha is a niche publisher specializing in speculative fiction, including mysteries, sci-fi, and fantasy. They publish both Japanese authors and translated works from international writers.
Key Highlights:
- Host of the Sogen SF Short Story Prize
- Pioneer in Japanese mystery and speculative fiction
- Translates Western sci-fi classics into Japanese
14. Hayakawa Publishing Corporation
Specialization: Science Fiction, Mystery, Western Literature
Description:
Hayakawa is one of Japan’s most influential science fiction publishers. Its imprints like Hayakawa SF have introduced Japanese readers to classic and contemporary global sci-fi and mystery works.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of world-famous authors like Isaac Asimov and Philip K. Dick
- Respected within Japanese SF and thriller communities
- Offers original Japanese sci-fi as well
15. Sanseido Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Dictionaries, Reference Books, Academic Texts
Description:
Sanseido is synonymous with high-quality dictionaries and educational materials. It plays a significant role in supporting language learners and researchers.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of the widely used Sanseido Kokugo Jiten
- Trusted brand for academic and linguistic publishing
- Long-standing reputation in Japanese education
16. Jiyu Kokuminsha Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Annual Trends, Social Commentary
Description:
Famous for publishing the annual “U-Can New Words and Buzzwords Awards,” Jiyu Kokuminsha captures the zeitgeist of Japanese culture and language through its trend-centric books.
Key Highlights:
- Popular for annual buzzword publications
- Focused on social trends and commentary
- Collaborates with media outlets for cultural surveys
17. Magazine House, Ltd.
Specialization: Lifestyle, Wellness, Fashion
Description:
Magazine House publishes lifestyle-centric magazines and books, including an an, BRUTUS, and Tarzan. They target a stylish, urban readership interested in fitness, fashion, and food.
Key Highlights:
- Strong brand presence in lifestyle publishing
- High-end visual aesthetics
- Successful print and digital integrations
18. Chikuma Shobo Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Philosophy, Sociology, Literature
Description:
Chikuma Shobo publishes intellectually rich material in philosophy, sociology, and politics. Their Chikuma Bunko series is highly respected among serious readers and scholars.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of critical and philosophical works
- Emphasis on depth and scholarly discourse
- Long history of publishing Japanese thinkers
19. Poplar Publishing Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Children’s Books, Educational Titles
Description:
Poplar Publishing is one of the top children’s book publishers in Japan. Known for its beautifully illustrated books, it fosters early reading habits and imagination.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of Motto Zutto Issho Da Yo
- Strong presence in school libraries
- Promotes literacy through storytelling
20. Gakken Holdings Co., Ltd.
Specialization: Educational Books, Children’s Learning Tools
Description:
Gakken is a leading educational publisher, known for textbooks, workbooks, and early childhood learning materials. Their products are widely used in schools across Japan.
Key Highlights:
- Trusted provider for K–12 learning materials
- Offers digital and physical learning tools
- Collaborates with educators for curriculum design
21. Toyo Keizai Inc.
Specialization: Business, Economics, Industry Analysis
Description:
Toyo Keizai publishes books and magazines focused on Japanese and global economics, market analysis, and corporate strategy. Their business magazine Weekly Toyo Keizai is highly regarded.
Key Highlights:
- Japan’s go-to business information provider
- Publisher of corporate rankings and data
- Insightful economic and market reporting
22. Diamond, Inc.
Specialization: Business, Finance, Management
Description:
Known for its publication Diamond Weekly, this company publishes business literature, leadership books, and corporate biographies.
Key Highlights:
- Thought leader in business publishing
- Offers both books and digital business media
- Popular among professionals and MBAs
23. PHP Institute, Inc.
Specialization: Philosophy, Self-Help, Business Ethics
Description:
Founded by former Prime Minister Konosuke Matsushita, PHP Institute focuses on personal development, philosophy, and ethics-based business books.
Key Highlights:
- Unique blend of self-help and philosophy
- Strong moral and ethical undertone
- Legacy publisher with corporate influence
24. Ishiyaku Publishers, Inc.
Specialization: Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical Texts
Description:
Ishiyaku is Japan’s premier medical publisher, producing specialized academic and clinical content for health professionals and students.
Key Highlights:
- Authoritative source for Japanese medical education
- Publishes in multiple health disciplines
- Collaborates with universities and hospitals
25. Nihon Bungeisha Co., Ltd.
Location: Chiyoda, Tokyo
Specialization: Manga, Popular Fiction, Martial Arts Books
Description:
This publisher produces manga with a mature readership in mind, as well as books on martial arts, gambling, and pop culture.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of seinen manga
- Niche content with loyal fanbase
- Focus on entertainment and realism
26. Heibonsha Limited, Publishers
Specialization: Encyclopedias, History, Culture
Description:
Heibonsha is renowned for producing reference materials, including encyclopedias and historical works, helping preserve Japanese cultural heritage.
Key Highlights:
- Publisher of World Encyclopedia
- Authority in cultural reference publishing
- Deep archival content
27. Iwasaki Publishing Co., Ltd.
Location: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Specialization: Children’s Literature, Educational Books
Description:
Iwasaki publishes educational and storybooks aimed at school-age children. They emphasize Japanese folklore, history, and moral stories.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on educational storytelling
- Richly illustrated books for young readers
- Popular with teachers and librarians
28. Kaiseisha Ltd.
Location: Chiyoda, Tokyo
Specialization: Picture Books, Fairy Tales, Children’s Educational Books
Description:
Kaiseisha creates beautifully illustrated children’s books and translations of Western fairy tales. Their focus on aesthetics and early learning sets them apart.
Key Highlights:
- Gorgeous art-driven picture books
- Strong educational mission
- Trusted brand in schools and libraries
📊 Publisher Rating Summary Table (2025)
| Rank | Publisher Name | Specialization | Global Reach | Innovation | Rating (out of 5) |
| 1 | Professional Ghostwriters | Ghostwriting & Full Publishing | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | Shueisha Inc. | Manga, Fiction | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| 3 | Kodansha Ltd. | Manga, Literature | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| 4 | Shogakukan Inc. | Manga, Education | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 5 | Kadokawa Corporation | Light Novels, Anime, Literature | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| 6 | Hakusensha Co., Ltd. | Shoujo Manga | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 7 | ASCII Media Works | Light Novels, Tech Books | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 8 | Futabasha Publishers | Manga, General Publishing | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 9 | Iwanami Shoten Publishers | Academic, Classical Literature | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 10 | Houbunsha Co., Ltd. | Moe/CGDCT Manga | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 11 | Media Factory | Multimedia, Light Novels | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 12 | Square Enix | Game-based Manga/Novels | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 13 | Takeshobo | Mature Manga, Subculture | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 14 | East Press Co., Ltd. | Educational Manga & Classics | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 15 | Mag Garden Corporation | Artistic Manga, New Talent | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 16 | Akita Shoten | Long-running Manga | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 17 | Flex Comix Inc. | Web Manga/Digital Publishing | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 18 | Gentosha Inc. | Literature, Non-fiction | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 19 | Tokuma Shoten Publishing | Ghibli-Linked Multimedia Books | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 20 | Wani Books Co., Ltd. | Pop Culture & Celebrities | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| 21 | Pia Corporation | Event/Travel/Lifestyle Guides | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| 22 | Softbank Creative Corp. | Tech, Business, Education | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 23 | PHP Institute, Inc. | Self-Help, Philosophy, Business | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 24 | NHK Publishing, Inc. | Educational & Cultural Books | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 25 | Bungeishunju Ltd. | High-End Literary Publishing | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| 26 | Ohzora Publishing Co., Ltd. | Romance & Women’s Fiction | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 27 | Libre Inc. | Boys’ Love Manga & Novels | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| 28 | Enterbrain, Inc. | Gaming/Pop Culture Publishing | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
📚 Conclusion: The Future of Japanese Publishing
Japan’s publishing industry in 2025 remains a fascinating blend of tradition and transformation. Whether you’re drawn to manga’s global success, literary masterpieces, or niche genre fiction, these 28 companies provide rich opportunities for discovery, collaboration, and readership.
From Professional Ghostwriters’ personalized approach to Shueisha’s global manga dominance, and Bungeishunju’s cultural depth, each company showcases the innovative spirit and narrative richness that define Japanese publishing today.
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.