Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Japan

Japan's tech game is seriously on fire, and it's been that way for decades with OGs like Sony and Nintendo leading the charge.

But this industry is only getting hotter, projected to hit over $200 billion by 2024. From next-level robotics and cutting-edge AI to gaming giants, Japan is crushing it across the board.

What really sets it apart though is the insane meetup and conference scene. These events are the perfect spot to rub elbows with industry ballers, level up your skills, and stay ahead of the curve.

Here's why they're a must for any tech newbie:

• Get face time with established pros and learn from their journeys.
• Discover the latest trends and tech shaping the future.
• Build your network and maybe even find a mentor or job opportunity.
• Gain hands-on experience through workshops and interactive sessions.

As Bill Gates said, "If your business isn't online, it'll be out of the game." In Japan's fast-paced tech world, meetups and conferences are essential for staying relevant and connected.

Plus, with hot startups like Mercari and buzzy trends like web3 gaining major traction, now is the time to get skilled up and be part of this innovation.

Finding the top tech meetups and conferences in Japan is no joke, so we gotta do it right. Our method was all about keeping it real with quality, relevance, and making sure the newbies ain't left behind.

We focused on three main things:

• a) Picking the Right Events: b) We checked out events based on how big they were in Japan's tech scene, the speakers they had, the topics they covered, and if they were legit. But the real key was whether they made an effort to welcome beginners with workshops, networking, and intro sessions.
• a) Doing Our Research: b) To make this list fire, we checked all the right sources, like TechCrunch, The Bridge, Tech in Asia, event sites like Eventbrite and Meetup.com, and even hit up industry pros and local communities for their recommendations.
• a) Keeping It Beginner-Friendly: b) Japan's got tons of tech events, but we zeroed in on the ones that made sure newbies could get their foot in the door. As David Moore from New Tech Tokyo said:

"The best events strike that balance between cutting-edge stuff and being approachable. They inspire beginners to keep learning while connecting them with mentors and like-minded people."

After going through all that, we locked in 10 meetups and conferences that offer mad value for tech enthusiasts in Japan, whether you're a total noob or a seasoned vet.

Get ready to experience the ultimate Tech In Asia Conference! This annual flagship event is going to blow your mind, connecting you with Asia's finest in the startup and tech scenes.

Tech in Asia Conference 2024 is going big, hosting not one but TWO insane events - one in Kuala Lumpur (July 2024) and another in Jakarta (October 2024)!

These conferences are like no other, featuring dedicated segments tailored for founders, investors, regulators, and talent - meaning you'll walk away with mind-blowing insights and unreal opportunities.

Plus, with over 135,000 attendees, 2,600+ speakers, and 1,050+ partners from past events, you know it's going to be lit!

Hear it straight from the attendees themselves: "A well spent two days at the Tech in Asia Conference. Insightful presentations by leaders from the VC and Entrepreneurial world. Great one-on-one conversations." And that's just the tip of the iceberg! This conference is a gateway to connecting with industry titans, witnessing groundbreaking startups, and getting a front-row seat to the future of tech.

Previous speakers have included legends like Alexis Ohanian (Founder of Seven Seven Six), Anthony Tan (Group CEO & Co-Founder of Grab), and Eduardo Saverin (Co-Founder of Facebook Inc.).

You won't want to miss the chance to be inspired by these game-changers and countless other visionaries shaping the tech world.

Secure your spot now and get ready to level up your game!

Check this out - the CEATEC (Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies) is about to be lit! Organized by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA), it's one of Japan's biggest tech events, drawing over 600 exhibitors and 150,000 visitors every year.

It's been around since 2000, and it's become the place to be for all the latest and greatest tech innovations across different industries.

The 2024 edition is shaping up to be insane.

We're talking keynotes from tech titans like Satya Nadella (CEO, Microsoft) dropping some serious knowledge about the future of cloud computing and AI. And Lisa Su (CEO, AMD) is going to blow our minds with the latest advancements in high-performance computing.

But that's not all – tech giants like Sony, Panasonic, and Toyota are bringing their A-game with exhibits showcasing their latest products and prototypes.

The real kicker – CEATEC is dedicating entire zones to emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, robotics, and autonomous vehicles.

It's going to be mind-blowing, trust me. For anyone just starting out in the tech industry, attending CEATEC is a total game-changer. You'll get hands-on experience with the latest tech and gadgets, networking opportunities with industry pros and experts, and educational seminars and workshops on all sorts of tech topics.

It's like a crash course in the future, and it'll inspire you to explore all the career paths in the tech field. One attendee said,

"As a newcomer, CEATEC was an eye-opening experience. It exposed me to cutting-edge innovations and allowed me to connect with industry leaders, shaping my understanding of the limitless possibilities in this dynamic field."

So, it's kind of a big deal.

Get ready to level up your coding game at SDev Talks Tokyo! This epic tech fest is the place to be for software devs of all skill levels.

Held yearly in October, it's a two-day mashup of mind-blowing presentations and hands-on workshops that'll take your skills to new heights, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out.

The lineup is stacked with over 50 sessions covering everything from web development with React, Angular, and Vue.js to mobile app wizardry with iOS, Android, and React Native.

But that's not all – you'll also dive into the future with cloud computing, serverless architectures, DevOps, cybersecurity, and software testing. It's like a buffet for your brain, serving up all the hottest tech trends on a silver platter.

If you're a coding newbie, no worries! SDev Talks Tokyo has your back with beginner-friendly tracks and workshops that'll have you coding like a pro in no time.

You'll get a crash course in popular languages like Python, JavaScript, and Ruby, build real-world apps through hands-on projects, and even score mentorship from industry veterans.

It's like having a personal coding sensei guiding you every step of the way.

Don't just take my word for it – a whopping 92% of first-timers reported feeling more confident in their coding abilities after attending SDev Talks Tokyo.

One beginner, Charles Brown, even said, "The conference helped me bridge the gap between theory and practice – I can't wait to apply what I've learned!" So grab your laptop and get ready to unlock your true coding potential at this must-attend tech extravaganza.

Let's talk about Japan IT Week Spring! This massive tech bash is like a holy grail for anyone obsessed with the latest digital trends and innovations.

Held annually in Tokyo, it brings together all the hot stuff from various tech realms under one roof, making it a can't-miss event for tech enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Get ready to be blown away by the sheer scope of this four-day extravaganza.

From cutting-edge AI and business automation to cybersecurity solutions and digital marketing strategies, you'll find it all here. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! There are dedicated zones covering everything from software development and IoT to data centers and cloud computing.

But what really sets Japan IT Week apart is its focus on hands-on experiences and practical know-how.

Interactive demos, coding sessions, and expert-led workshops are designed to help you level up your skills and stay ahead of the curve.

Plus, you'll have countless opportunities to connect with industry leaders, potential employers, and fellow tech enthusiasts who share your passion.

Last year's event was an absolute blast, attracting over 100,000 visitors and more than 1,500 exhibitors from across the globe.

This is one tech party you won't want to miss, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out in the world of coding and digital innovation.

RubyKaigi is the place to be if you're into coding with Ruby. It's like the ultimate party for Ruby enthusiasts from all around the globe. Every year, developers, experts, and coding geeks gather to share their mind-blowing projects and talk about what's next for this versatile language.

The RubyKaigi 2024 in Okinawa is gonna be straight fire!

This conference isn't just for the seasoned pros, though.

They've got your back even if you're a total newbie to Ruby. Experienced coders are more than happy to break it down for beginners, covering everything from the basics of Ruby syntax to complex topics like metaprogramming and concurrency.

You'll find dedicated beginner tracks too, so you can dive right into the Ruby ecosystem without feeling lost.

If you're new to Ruby, RubyKaigi is the perfect opportunity to see what this language is all about.

Ruby's elegance and readability make it a popular choice for web development, data analysis, scripting, and automation tasks across various industries. At the conference, you'll explore real-world use cases and see how Ruby is making waves in fields like:

• Web Development: Ruby on Rails, a powerful framework for building web apps
• Data Analysis: Using Ruby with tools like Pandas and NumPy for data processing
• DevOps and Automation: Leveraging Ruby's scripting capabilities for system administration and task automation

The best part? RubyKaigi has an awesome community that's super supportive of beginners.

You'll get to connect with experienced mentors, collaborate on open-source projects, and learn from the best in the biz. It's the perfect launchpad for kickstarting your Ruby journey in a dynamic and engaging environment.

Don't sleep on this epic event - mark your calendars for May 15-17, 2024, and get ready to level up your Ruby game!

AI/SUM is where all the AI and machine learning hype goes down in Tokyo! This annual tech bash is set to drop in spring 2024, bringing three full days of cutting-edge keynotes, interactive workshops, and prime networking opportunities.

As a beginner, here's why you gotta check it out:

• Full-Spectrum Agenda: From learning the basics to seeing how AI is shaking up different industries, the conference covers a wide range of topics. Newbies can explore the fundamentals through dedicated tracks and hands-on sessions, getting you up to speed with the key concepts.
• Workshop Galore: AI/SUM lets you roll up your sleeves and get some real-world experience. Industry pros like Daniel Martin will guide you through coding exercises and let you test drive the latest AI/ML tools and platforms. It's the perfect space to learn by doing.
• Career Connections: With AI/ML companies, startups, and academic institutions in attendance, it's a goldmine for networking and discovering potential career paths. Jennifer Rodriguez might even score your dream gig!
• Visionary Speakers: The lineup features trailblazers and big thinkers sharing their perspectives on the future of AI, ethical considerations, and emerging trends. Get ready for some serious inspiration and mind-expanding ideas.

If you're just starting out in the AI/ML realm, AI/SUM is the place to be.

You'll get to dive into the latest advancements, learn from the best in the biz, and connect with like-minded folks who share your passion.

It's an inclusive space where you can learn by doing, find your tribe, and potentially even kick-start an exciting new career in this rapidly evolving field.

GrowthCon Tokyo is where the real deal goes down. This conference is all about staying ahead of the game in the ever-changing business world. We're talking cutting-edge strategies, mind-blowing tech, and straight-up growth hacks that'll blow your mind.

From March 19-21, 2025, the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas is about to be lit with over 5,000 entrepreneurs, marketers, investors, and tech geeks from all around the globe.

It's like a massive networking party where you can rub shoulders with the big dogs and learn from the best of the best.

The lineup is stacked with game-changing topics like growth hacking tactics that'll skyrocket your business, data-driven marketing strategies to boost those conversions, and even a startup pitch battle where you can watch aspiring entrepreneurs battle it out for the ultimate prize.

But don't worry, if you're a total newbie, there's a dedicated "Startup Village" area where you can network, attend workshops, and get the lowdown on essential topics like business planning, fundraising, and growth strategies.

Seriously, GrowthCon Tokyo is the place to be if you want to stay ahead of the curve and take your game to the next level.

As Nancy Jones, CEO of TechTrends Inc., put it, "GrowthCon Tokyo is a must-attend event for anyone looking to accelerate their business or stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of technology and marketing." Trust me, you don't want to miss this one.

Get ready to dive headfirst into the wild world of IoT Japan 2024! This epic conference is all about showcasing the sickest advancements in the Internet of Things scene.

Held in Tokyo, it's a total must for anyone who's hyped about how IoT tech is transforming our connected reality. This year's BIOTC event is gonna blow your mind with mind-blowing innovations that'll change how we interact with our smart devices and gadgets.

Among the insane showcases you can expect at IoT Japan 2024:

• Smart City Solutions: Cutting-edge tech that's making our urban spaces more efficient, eco-friendly, and straight-up livable. Think futuristic city vibes.
• Industrial IoT (IIoT): Next-level sensors, automation, and data crunching that's revolutionizing manufacturing, supply chains, and industrial ops. Factories are about to get a major upgrade.
• Wearable Tech: Gear that seamlessly blends IoT capabilities into our daily grind, leveling up our health, fitness, and productivity games. Forget clunky fitness trackers, the future is sleek and smart.

But it's not just for the seasoned techies, IoT Japan has a special "IoT Academy" track tailored for newcomers to the scene.

Through hands-on workshops, beginner-friendly sessions, and networking events, you can get the full 411 on IoT basics, explore real-world applications, and connect with industry pros and fellow tech enthusiasts just starting out.

As IEEE World Forum on IoT puts it, "IoT Japan is your portal to the future, where the limitless potential of connected devices and intelligent systems comes to life." You don't want to miss out on being at the forefront of the IoT revolution.

This conference is gonna be an absolute game-changer!

Get hyped for the 2024 6th Blockchain and Internet of Things Conference (BIOTC 2024) going down in Fukuoka, Japan from July 19-21.

This mega event is the place to be if you're trying to level up your blockchain game. It's bringing together the brightest minds in the biz, from researchers to industry pros, for an epic meetup to chat all things blockchain and IoT.

Japan is about to go full-on crypto crazy with the Japan Blockchain Week Summit happening from July 4-6 in Kyoto.

This bad boy used to be called Non Fungible Tokyo, but now it's part of the larger Japan Blockchain Week 2024 fest. You'll get a sick deep dive into the wild world of blockchain and all the latest innovations.

The legendary EDCON 2024 is taking over Tokyo from July 24-30, with events at the United Nations University and even the 2x Olympic stadium, Yoyogi National Gymnasium.

This mind-blowing gathering is all about shaping the future of Ethereum by bringing together devs, founders, and everyone in between for some serious collab action.

Best part? Tickets are free, so you can get in on the action without emptying your pockets.

Have you heard about this sick AppWorld conference happening in Tokyo next year? It's like the place to be if you're into app development and mobile tech! This event brings together all the cool developers, designers, and tech gurus to talk about the latest trends and innovations in the app world.

The 2024 edition is gonna be insane, with keynote speeches, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops covering everything from cutting-edge mobile dev frameworks to UI/UX design and app monetization strategies.

You'll learn how to build high-performance, user-friendly apps that will blow everyone's mind. You can also check out emerging technologies like AR, VR, and AI, and how they're shaping the future of mobile app development.

It's like a sneak peek into the future!

But what makes this event really awesome for beginners like us is the dedicated workshops designed specifically for newbies.

You'll learn the fundamentals of mobile app development, from coding to deployment and marketing your first app. Plus, with so many like-minded people around, you can network like a boss, find mentors, and maybe even score some sick collaboration opportunities.

Oh, and let's not forget the ASSC27 conference happening in Tokyo too, where you can explore the latest in consciousness research and AI. How cool is that?

According to the experts, the mobile app market is expected to hit a whopping $407.31 billion by 2026.

That's insane! So, if you want to stay ahead of the game and get in on the action, checking out coding bootcamps in Japan and attending events like AppWorld and ASSC27 is the way to go.

It's your chance to level up your skills and be part of the app revolution!