The Japanese government has designated Fukuoka, Tokyo, Osaka, and Hokkaido as "Financial and Asset Management Special Zones" as part of its efforts to develop international financial cities through regulatory easing and environmental enhancements. This initiative aims to attract foreign financial institutions and asset management companies to these regions. Key measures include allowing administrative procedures for establishing corporations to be conducted solely in English, introducing new visas for financial professionals supporting local startups, and reducing the time required for foreigners to open bank accounts.