The Japanese community and businesses in Munich

Munich is one of the most important European hubs for the Japanese economy. Japanese companies have had a significant impact on the local economy for decades.

Munich and Japan

Munich is one of the most important hubs for Japanese companies, professionals and the Japanese community in Europe. For decades, Japanese companies have played a key role in shaping economic relations between Bavaria and Japan, making a significant contribution to Munich’s innovation and competitiveness.

Today, Munich offers the Japanese community a comprehensive ecosystem—from the Consulate General and the Japanese International School to specialised organisations, authentic shopping opportunities, and a world-class dining scene.

Photo: LHM

Mit der traditionellen Kagami-Biraki-Zeremonie feierten Vertreterinnen und Vertreter aus Wirtschaft, Politik und Institutionen beim Neujahrsempfang für japanischen Unternehmen 2026 die enge Partnerschaft zwischen Japan, München und Bayern.

Facts and figures about the Japanese community in Munich

Around 4,800 people of Japanese descent live in Munich.
Around 3,000 of these hold Japanese citizenship exclusively.
Around 185 Japanese companies are based in the wider Munich area.
Munich and Sapporo have been close city partners since 1972.
The Free State of Bavaria has had its own office in Tokyo since 1988.

Consequently, Munich is one of the most important German locations for Japanese companies and is home to one of the largest Japanese communities in Germany.

A strong hub for Japanese companies

Japanese companies in Munich benefit from a robust economic structure, a highly skilled workforce and an excellent research environment. The following sectors are particularly attractive: