I'm working for a Japanese Tech sturtup, which foreigner developers are also working for and recently I often hear the word "Blockchain" or "bitcoin" because some of the startup, major firm, and Banks started to research blockchain and think how they can exploit blockchain on their services.
And surprisingly, recently I heared about this technology in not only tech industry but also other industry from TV , newspaper and media etc. So I 'm sure this technology will changing Japanese life style little by little.
In this posting, I share what's happen in Japan and show how blockchain technology change our life in Japan now.
"BitGirls" - TV program about Blockchain
BitGirls is economic, and entertainment TV show where viewers can interact with its performers by crypto-currencies. Viewers are able to vote for the member of the show, watch the result of it, and enjoy the contents involved by that viewers actions.
I'm interested in this project because this show will attract not only tech people but also public.
"Coincheck Denki" - Electricity charges payment with bitcoin
Coincheck which is Japanese first exchange platform, start to payment system for electricity charges with bitcoin and made TV news. I think it`s great opportunity for Japanese to come in contact with blockchain.
"Consumption task of crypto currencies" - Japanese Ministry of Finance's decision
This was a good news for people who use crypto currencies. Japanese Ministry of Finance and FSA decided to treat crypto currencies as real currency, which means crypto currencies are excluded from taxation. They are planning and it`s being adjusted but will decide that soon.
In Japan, now there are about 2,500 stores where crypto currency are available and increasing more and more. This decision will make cryptocurrencies more friendly and change Japanese lifestyle too.