Bloomberg: Japan’s Rich List

2026

Close

Art direction: Xiaojuan Pang

Read the article

Lede and spot Illustration for Bloomberg: The Billionaires Behind Japan’s Cultural Icons. From Hello Kitty to Demon Slayer, pop culture is now the country’s second most valuable export.

The lede illustration features Japan’s soft power objects. Maneki-neko is placed at the center to emphasize the theme of wealth. The spots illustrate what each of the 10 companies is famous for.

1. Shueisha (Shogakukan) - Shonen Jump Magazine
2. ABC Mart - Reasonably priced sneakers
3. Konami - Dance Dance Revolution
4. Capcom - Street Fighter
5. APA Hotel - compact hotel room
6. Koei Tecmo - Dynasty Warriors
7. Sanrio - Hello Kitty
8. Bandai Namco - Tamagotchi
9. Pal Group - Budget lifestyle retailer 3COINS
10. Toridoll - Bowls of udon under $5

Shueisha

ABC Mart

Konami

Capcom

APA Hotel

Koei Tecmo

Sanrio

Bandai

Pal Group

Toridoll