Can we work together even if we don’t speak Japanese?

Absolutely. All communication is conducted in English. To eliminate time zone friction and ensure every design detail is perfectly documented, our international workflow is optimized for asynchronous, text-based collaboration using Slack, Figma, and Notion. We handle all the linguistic heavy lifting on our end, so you will never need to worry about the language barrier or hiring an intermediary. This efficient process keeps the project moving smoothly without requiring you to schedule inconvenient late-night or early-morning video calls.

Why should we work with a Japanese agency for our Japan market entry?

Because the details that matter most to Japanese audiences are invisible to outsiders. Typography weight, negative space, the pace of information hierarchy, the visual cues that signal trust — these are shaped by decades of cultural context that cannot be researched from abroad. At ZICCA DESIGN, Japan is not a market we study. It is where we live and work every day. We translate your brand into something that feels native to Japanese audiences, not foreign —while preserving the global identity you have already built.

What does the Japan localization or rebranding process look like?

Every project begins with a brand audit — we review your existing visual identity, messaging, and positioning to understand what should be preserved and what needs to adapt for the Japanese market. From there, we move through concept development, design, and build in close collaboration with you at each stage. You will have full visibility throughout via shared Figma files and Notion project boards, with regular English-language check-ins. The process typically takes 2–4 months depending on scope.

Can you build bilingual websites in English and Japanese?

Yes. We design and develop bilingual websites with a structure built for international SEO from the ground up — including correct hreflang implementation so that search engines serve the right language to the right audience, rather than the two versions competing against each other. Each language version is independently optimized, not simply translated. The result is a site that performs in both markets.

How do you manage projects across different time zones?

Our workflow is built for asynchronous collaboration by default. Slack keeps communication moving without requiring real-time availability, Notion keeps the entire project history documented and accessible, and Figma gives you live visibility into the design at every stage. For synchronous check-ins, we proactively work around your schedule — whether you are in New York, London, or Singapore. Our workflow is explicitly designed to eliminate time zone friction, ensuring that physical distance or time differences will never slow down your project.

What are your payment terms for international clients?

We invoice in Japanese Yen (JPY) and accept international wire transfer (SWIFT) and Wise, which minimizes transfer fees for clients outside Japan. Payment is structured in three installments: an initial deposit at project kick-off, a mid-project payment at design sign-off, and a final payment upon delivery. We are happy to align the schedule with your billing cycle where possible.

What kind of companies do you work best with?

We are the right fit for international brands that are serious about reaching Japanese audiences — not looking for a quick translation, but a considered, strategic approach that builds genuine trust. If you are looking for the cheapest option, we are probably not the right match. If you want it done properly, we would love to talk.

We are a travel, tourism, or hospitality brand. Can you help us attract Japanese visitors?

This is where we are at our strongest. Japanese travellers are among the most research-intensive in the world — they read deeply, compare carefully, and respond to very specific visual and editorial cues before booking. We have extensive experience working with tourism and hospitality brands, and we understand what moves a Japanese audience from interest to action. From destination websites and booking experiences to campaign landing pages and social content, we help travel brands earn the trust of Japanese visitors at every touchpoint.

ZICCA DESIGN | Branding & Web Design

Yamagata Web Design & Branding - ZICCA DESIGN