Talk & Seminar
[Creators-Only Networking Event] Discovering the Potential of Japanese Content with the Former Head of Amazon Studios Japan
25.10.24[ Fri ] 18:30-20:30
- In-person
- Not online
2025.09.24
This special seminar for creators featuring Takayuki Hayakawa, former Head of Amazon Studios Japan, who has worked on numerous high-profile projects and has in-depth knowledge of both the global and Japanese markets.
He will discuss the appeal and uniqueness of Japanese content, market characteristics across regions such as Asia and North America, the challenges Japan faces and potential solutions, methods of funding, promising countries and regions, and strategies for making original IP succeed both domestically and internationally.
The session will also explore choices between streaming and theatrical releases, balancing online and offline distribution, and the importance of on-site experiences for overseas expansion, offering creators practical tips on crafting entertainment that fuses global standards with Japan’s distinct sensibility.
*Light refreshments and drinks will be served
Guests
Takayuki Hayakawa
[Profile]
Producer
CEO, Hayakawa & Associates
Former Head of Amazon Studios Japan / Professor, Department of Film & Media, Tohoku University of Art & Design
As the executive in charge of Amazon Original productions—including films, drama series, and animation—for Amazon Prime Video, he played a pivotal role in driving the rapid growth of Amazon’s video streaming service in Japan. He served as Executive Producer on several titles such as The Silent Service, Angel Flight: International Funeral Director, Unforgettable Memory, Takeshi’s Castle, and The Bachelor Japan, overseeing both creative and business aspects. He has been a strong advocate for entertainment that blends global-quality standards with Japan’s unique sensibilities. His latest work, Broken Rage, directed by Takeshi Kitano, was officially invited to the Venice International Film Festival.
Before joining Amazon, starting in 1994 he worked as a Director in the NHK Program Production Bureau, creating numerous award-winning programs recognized in Japan and abroad, including by the Agency for Cultural Affairs Arts Festival. He later became an Executive Producer at Fuji Television, where he led the development of projects that transcended borders and industries.
In 2015, he invested in the San Francisco–based startup Niantic, Inc. during its Series A and B funding rounds. Niantic went on to create the AR game Pokémon GO, which became a worldwide sensation and achieved five Guinness World Records.
He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and an MPA from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore.
Outline
- Date
- 25.10.24 [Fri] 18:30-20:30
- Venue
- LIFORK HARAJUKU
- Admission
- 3,500 yen (tax included) Advance sales only (Includes light refreshments & drinks)
- TICKET Reservation
Co-organizer
Japan Cultural Expo 2.0 Organizer
Partner
