Right now we’re in Tokyo, Japan on holiday together. Even though this trip is a holiday and meant for anything but work, I can’t help but notice how much inspiration this city offers for marketing. With a current estimate of over 37 million in population, Tokyo is busy, bold, and buzzing with creativity. From the giant screens in Shibuya to the quiet ramen shops tucked away in side some back street, everything here seems extremely intentional and thought out.

I can’t help but think about the take aways from their branding and marketing that any business or individual can take from the way Japan (Tokyo) operates.

User experience isn’t just about how a site looks. It’s about how it feels. Can the user find what they need within 2–3 clicks? Are the CTAs in the right place? Does the scroll feel intentional or chaotic?

Standing at Shibuya Crossing, arguably the busiest intersection in the world. Surrounded by giant LED screens, flashing billboards, and up to 3,000 pedestrians crossing at any given moment, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and overstimulated. Yet somehow, certain ads still manage to cut through the noise and stick with you.

The lesson: In the digital world, attention is your currency. If your content doesn’t grab your audience in the first few seconds, it gets lost in the scroll. Strong visuals, bold headlines, and sharp messaging make the difference between being overlooked and being remembered.

Tokyo’s convenience stores are E V E R Y W H E R E!

7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson. While they may compete with each other, what makes all 3 of them strong is consistency: No matter where you go, you know exactly what you’re going to get.

The lesson: In marketing, your brand identity must be consistent across your website, social media, and advertising. Your product or service must deliver the same consistent deliverable each time. Repetition and reliability are what builds recognition and trust.

Tying into consistency, Japan also proves that experiences win loyalty. Whether it’s the dependable service at convenience store or the unforgettable, unique atmosphere at a tiny ramen bar, it’s the experience that keeps people coming back.

The lesson: Your product or service isn’t just what you sell,  it’s how you package and deliver it. A business can stand out either by offering a consistent, reliable experience that people can depend on, or by creating a one-of-a-kind, memorable interaction that no competitor can match.

One of the most fascinating things about Japan is how will their marketing blends seamlessly into culture. Anime mascots promotions are everywhere from trains to insurance. Vending machines sell hot coffee on the street, and seasonal campaigns match traditions like cherry blossom season.

The lesson: The most effective marketing speaks your audience’s language. Instead of forcing a “one-size-fits-all” approach, adapt your message to the culture, trends, and values of the people you’re trying to reach.

Tokyo is a city where ancient temples stand next to towering skyscrapers wrapped in bright flashing LED screens. Tradition and innovation coexist everywhere you look.

The lesson: The best marketing does the same, blend timeless principles like storytelling, trust, and value with modern tools like AI, reels, or AR. Innovation grabs attention, but tradition builds long-term loyalty.

Even while on holiday, Tokyo reminded me that inspiration for marketing is everywhere. Whether it’s consistency, experience, or creativity, the lessons are universal: grab attention, build trust, deliver great products/experiences, adapt to your audience, and balance innovation with timeless values.

At IIRONIIC Media, that’s exactly how we help brands grow. By blending creativity, strategy, and consistency to create digital experiences, websites, apps and marketing that stand out and lasts.