Japanese Business Glossary

暗号資産 (angō shisan) refers to cryptocurrency or crypto assets in Japanese. These are digital or virtual assets that use cryptography for security and operate on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology.

Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital coins, are the most well-known types of angō shisan. They can be used for various purposes, including online purchases, investment, and transferring value across borders. The decentralized nature of angō shisan means that they are not controlled by any central authority, such as a government or financial institution.

The use and regulation of angō shisan are evolving, with governments around the world developing frameworks to address issues related to security, taxation, and legality. In Japan, crytocurrency is recognized and regulated, with specific laws in place to protect investors and ensure the integrity of financial markets.

加熱式タバコ (kanetsu-shiki tabako) refers to heated tobacco products (HTPs) in Japanese. These are a type of tobacco product that heats tobacco instead of burning it, producing a vapor containing nicotine and other chemicals, which is then inhaled by the user. Unlike traditional cigarettes, which combust tobacco at high temperatures, kanetsu-shiki tabacco heats the tobacco at lower temperatures, typically between 250°C and 350°C, to generate an aerosol.

Heated tobacco products are marketed as a potentially less harmful alternative to conventional smoking because they produce fewer harmful substances compared to the combustion process. However, they still contain nicotine and other potentially harmful chemicals, and their long-term health effects are still being studied. Popular brands of kanetsu-shiki tabacco include IQOS by Philip Morris, Glo by British American Tobacco, and Ploom by Japan Tobacco. These products have gained popularity in Japan and other countries as smokers look for alternatives to traditional cigarettes.

寄附 (kifu) refers to a donation or contribution in Japanese. It is the act of giving money, goods, or services to a cause, organization, or individual without expecting anything in return. Donations can be made to various entities such as non-profit organizations, charities, educational institutions, religious groups, or community projects.

In Japan, donations may also be made through programs like ふるさと納税 (Furusato Nōzei), where individuals contribute to local municipalities and receive tax deductions and local specialty products in return. Donations are a common way for individuals and businesses to support causes they care about, contribute to societal well-being, and benefit from certain tax incentives.

商品券 (shōhinken) refers to a gift certificate or gift card in Japanese. It is a prepaid card or voucher that can be used to purchase goods and services at specific stores or businesses. Shōhinken typically have a designated monetary value and can be redeemed within a specified period.

They are commonly given as gifts, promotional items, or rewards and are widely accepted at various retail outlets, restaurants, and service providers. Shōhinken offers flexibility and convenience for both the giver and the recipient, allowing the recipient to choose products or services according to their preferences.

差額ベッド代 (sagaku beddo dai) refers to the additional charge for a hospital room beyond the standard coverage provided by health insurance in Japan. When a patient opts for a more comfortable or private room, they incur this extra cost, which is not covered by insurance.

For example, if you choose to stay in a single room instead of a shared room, the difference in cost is your responsibility. This additional charge for a private or semi-private room, called the sagaku beddo dai must be paid out-of-pocket by the patient.

Importantly, this expense is not eligible for medical expense deductions (医療費控除) under Japanese tax law. Medical expense deductions typically cover essential medical treatments and services, but not optional upgrades such as private room charges

診療報酬 (shinryou houshuu) refers to the payment medical institutions receive for the services they provide. This system is regulated by the government and ensures that healthcare providers are compensated for their work according to standardized rates.

In Japan, the fee structure for medical services is periodically reviewed and revised. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare sets these fees to maintain balance between medical costs and the quality of healthcare services. The fees are detailed in a document known as the 診療報酬点数表 (shinryou houshuu tensuu hyou), or the Medical Fee Schedule, which specifies the points assigned to various medical procedures and services. These points are then converted into yen based on a set conversion factor.

The use of the My Number card (マイナンバーカード) as a health insurance card, known as マイナ保険証 (Myna hokenshou), has also influenced the diagnostic fee structure. For instance, the fees for initial consultations can differ based on whether a My Number card is used, with the aim of encouraging its use by making it more cost-effective for patients​