Sayama Ventures is now an official ambassador for SusHi Tech Tokyo Japan 2026 and co-organiser of The Ventures Japan - Global Startup Awards 2026.
Sayama Ventures stands as a beacon of purpose, inspired by the legendary Totoro Forest and the tranquil beauty of Sayama Hills in Saitama Prefecture. In these sacred woods, generations have worked together to preserve nature’s harmony - a living lesson that the most impactful endeavors are always shaped by the strength of collective action and shared vision.
It was along these peaceful trails that the founders of Sayama Ventures found their guiding principle: entrepreneurship flourishes not through isolated competition, but by nurturing vibrant ecosystems. Here, ideas, resources, and expert knowledge flow freely, powering the growth of every member in the community.
Rooted in Japan’s rich tradition of collaboration, Sayama Ventures acts as a bridge between timeless wisdom and the fast-evolving world of global technology ventures. The venture builder cultivates innovation that honors both human values and environmental sustainability, weaving together a community committed to patience, balance, and purpose.
In the quiet majesty of Sayama Hills, growth unfolds as a rhythm - measured, deliberate, and resilient. Every tree, root, and breeze plays its role, showing that true strength comes from deep roots: clarity of purpose, trusted partnerships, and the kind of diversity found in a thriving forest ecosystem. Startups are nurtured as seeds in fertile soil, growing stronger through collaboration, not isolation.
Sayama Ventures, guided by these principles, helps founders embark on a journey where cultural depth and innovation stand side by side. The forest reminds every entrepreneur that lasting growth is built quietly and with care, coming alive through meaningful connections.
At Sayama Ventures, we see startups as living ecosystems —
each founder a seed, each idea a sprout, each challenge a season to grow through.
Our vision is to become Japan’s most inspiring venture builder
the modern forest of innovation where creativity, courage, and collaboration take root.
Like the enchanted woods of Sayama that once sparked Miyazaki’s Totoro,
we, too, believe in invisible forces
the unseen connections between people, purpose, and possibility.
Because when founders feel supported,
when imagination is given structure,
and when vision is matched with wisdom
something magical begins to grow.
Sayama Ventures is more than a venture builder — it’s a living forest of founders.
Inspired by Sayama Hills, the mystical woodland that inspired My Neighbor Totoro, we believe every startup begins as a tiny seed of imagination — fragile, full of potential, waiting for care to grow.
Just as the Sayama Forest has long been a place where nature and spirit coexist, Sayama Ventures nurtures the meeting point between vision and action, creativity and discipline, Japan and the world.
Our approach to venture building is not a standard transactional investment relationship. It's a deeply integrated process of philosophical and practical venture cultivation, rooted in timeless Japanese principles that honor both innovation and tradition.
"Every great venture begins as a seed of possibility, requiring the right environment to flourish."
Startups are seen as "vital seeds" carrying the potential for change. Sayama Ventures serves as the "fertile ground" and "sanctuary," welcoming visions and providing the initial environment for growth.
Vision & Potential
"Through deep connections and patient guidance, raw potential transforms into focused purpose."
Founders are immediately connected with a network of mentors and collaborators. Support is defined by care, patience, and community. This phase provides structure for "raw imagination" to take meaningful form.
Kizuna (Deep Connections)
"Like nature's seasons, each challenge becomes an opportunity for thoughtful evolution."
The venture learns to adapt and overcome challenges ("seasons") without haste or fear. Growth is steady and thoughtful, guided by disciplined refinement in every area of the business.
Kaizen (Continuous Improvement)
"True success grows deep roots, creating lasting impact as enduring as the Sayama Hills themselves."
The ultimate goal is not a quick exit but the nurturing of an enduring legacy. The company develops strong roots, ensuring its growth is sustainable and its impact is lasting, blending tradition with modern innovation.
This journey is centered on building resilience, cultivating lasting impact, and upholding respect for community. We don't just build companies - we cultivate legacies that honor both innovation and tradition, making each venture as enduring as the Sayama Hills themselves