Two decades ago, the ideal career path was to join a blue chip company and steadily climb the corporate ladder until retirement — a system that helped sustain Japan's economic growth.
But in recent years, entrepreneurs relying on their wits and fresh ideas have carved out new markets or introduced new business styles and are now emerging as role models for younger generations.
In this occasional interview series, we will feature stories on those entrepreneurs, who perhaps hold the key to a more competitive Japan.