Adjusting to culture in Japan is often a challenge for foreign residents. The same goes for foreign companies.
Some global retailers have entered the Japanese market and established themselves as beloved brands by adapting to the local culture, while others struggle to win the hearts and minds of discerning customers.
"Many international brands in various sectors have come to the Japanese market. And, as competition heats up, customers' expectations and demand for good services have gotten higher," said Kenji Kaniya, a director of McDonald's Japan's PR department.