Japan isn't a market where simple translation and listing are enough. Especially on platforms like Rakuten, everything—from the search algorithm to the path-to-purchase and customer expectations—is unique.
At Bottleship, we build a complete structure that covers exposure → click → conversion to help your brand grow sustainably in Japan.
❚ 3 Key Strategies to Maximise Product Visibility in Japan
1. Optimising Product Titles — Keywords First
Search algorithms give priority to keywords that appear in the first 30 characters of a product title. The goal is to match how users actually search.
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Bad: “High-Quality Stylish Cable”
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Good: “iPhone Charging Cable Lightning 1m Fast Charge MFi Certified”
2. Complete and Accurate Attribute Settings
Size, color, material, compatible devices—all must be fully and accurately input. Products with missing attributes will not appear in filtered search results, losing exposure opportunities.
3. Keyword-Rich Product Descriptions
Include related terms naturally in your copy. For example, for a smartphone stand, use terms like:
“for video watching”, “telework”, “compatible with iPhone and Android”.
❚ Increasing Click-Through Rate (CTR): It’s About What They See First
1. Text Banners on the Main Product Image
Grab attention directly from the search result page.
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Examples: “#1 on Rakuten Ranking”, “Over 50,000 Sold”, “Limited Time 50% OFF”
2. Stand Out Through Product Naming
Use descriptive specs in the title to catch the buyer’s eye.
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Example: “Charge 3 Devices at Once / 1.5m / Tangle-Free Design”
3. Boost Review Count & Ratings
Launch with a review campaign. Incentives can significantly increase early reviews, and review volume directly impacts conversion.
4. Use Badges (Free Shipping, Coupons)
Rakuten visually highlights free shipping and coupon offers—increasing both visibility and CTR.
❚ Conversion Rate (CVR): Turning Clicks Into Sales
Show key information within the first scroll:
Units sold, star ratings, warranty, free shipping, same-day dispatch, etc.
Also include visual use-case scenarios to help customers imagine ownership:
“Charge your phone by the bed”, “Perfect for business trips or travel”
❚ What We Provide: Not Just Consulting—Execution
We don’t just advise, we execute.
We handle:
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Product listing setup
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Keyword mapping
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Image & banner creation
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Ad management
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Fulfillment planning
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Customer service
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Review management
With over 10 years of experience in Rakuten, Amazon Japan, Qoo10, and Shopify, we’ve helped brands across the U.S., Europe, and Oceania succeed in Japan.
❚ Entering Japan is One Thing. Growing in Japan is Another.
This is not a market for guesswork or shortcuts.It requires technical precision and emotional nuance. We’re the execution partner you need. Contact to us for further information!
