How Have Japan’s 1000-Year-Old Companies Survived For So Long? | Family Business

Japan is home to more than 33 thousand companies that have achieved the remarkable feat of surviving for over a century. This accounts for over 40% of the world’s total. Yet, what sets apart these companies that have been around for more than a hundred years? Behind these numbers exist organizations that have persevered through innumerable challenges and adversities, managing to thrive across the decades. These businesses are known as shinise and are treasured as a part of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

An upcoming documentary film takes an in-depth look at the shinise and reveals some of the secrets behind their survival and success. The documentary filmmakers uncover some of the practices that have enabled these organizations to survive and thrive over the centuries, including their adaptive business strategies and focus on customer satisfaction. Through interviews with business owners, experts, and historians, the documentary seeks to provide a fascinating insight into the world of Japan’s ancient businesses, their rich history, and their continued relevance in the modern era.