For western businesses looking to break into the Japanese market and elevate their presence with a new website, the web design trends that you'll commonly find in many successful websites in Japan can be a little overwhelming at first.

Unlike many western websites, Japanese domains can often be rather loud and 'busy' to the untrained eye, but this isn't a bad thing. With minimal text and sleek visuals being the norm for European websites, you'll find that there are many differences in style and messaging to contend with.

Here are just a few Japanese website trends that you'll need to be aware of if you're planning a digital launch.

Copy characteristics

Unlike western websites, you'll notice that many Japanese web pages feature hefty amounts of copy.

This is because Japanese customers prefer to be given plenty of information upfront in order for them to make a conscious purchasing decision and push them towards a sale. With Western websites attempting to create an emotional response, Japanese websites are totally different as they actively sell from the word go and act as a vehicle for informing a purchasing decision.

Smaller graphics, more stats

Another element worthy of a mention when creating a website for the Japanese market is the use of statistics.

Used frequently to build trust, many large visuals are notably absent and smaller graphics are used in their place to back up testimonials or statistics and persuade visitors to fill their cart.

Colours & CTA

Bright and colourful, you'll find plenty of websites that use vibrant colour palettes to draw the eye and engage within the Japanese digital landscape.

Colour clashes are common with white space kept to a bare minimum wherever possible as this is often utilised to extol the virtues of the product or service on offer with testimonials or feedback.

Another key feature to look out for is the use of call to actions throughout the user experience. Western websites are rather subtle in their approach to moving a visitor through the sales funnel, whereas you'll often find several CTA's on one page encouraging you to buy.

This direct approach just goes to illustrate why having an insight into the culture, behaviours and digital preferences of the Japanese market can make all the difference when trying to communicate with an intended audience via a new website.