Starting a business
Can I buy a restaurant business in Japan?
Yes, but acquiring a restaurant business does not transfer every approval automatically. You must confirm the deal structure, food-service permit, lease, employees and any alcohol/late-night permissions.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Asset purchase and share purchase have different license/contract consequences.
- The premises must continue to satisfy health/fire/building rules.
- If you personally manage it in Japan, immigration authorization is separate.
Documents
- Identity documents
- Company/business plan documents
- Corporate registration documents where applicable
Likely cost
No single government price. Costs depend on the business license, registration, premises, capital, product compliance and professional services required for this exact activity.
Where to act
The sector-specific licensing authority plus Legal Affairs Bureau/tax offices where entity or tax registration is involved.