TVs are an essential part of our daily lives, gracing our living spaces and providing endless hours of entertainment, from movies and TV shows to immersive gaming experiences. It’s almost impossible to imagine a modern home without at least one television.
In this article, we’ll be delving into the world of Japanese TV brands. Before we begin remember not all Japanese tv bands manufacture their televisions in Japan.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right into it!
Where can I buy a TV made in Japan?
After conducting my research, I found that the options are quite limited. While you may find some TVs manufactured in Japan, they are primarily available for the Japanese market, and it might be difficult to find them elsewhere.
Japanese TV Brands (There are caveats)
Sharp
During my research, I found that Sharp Corporation, a multinational electronics company founded in Japan in 1912, is the only company I found evidence of actively making TVs in Japan.
Even though most of their TVs are manufactured in China, there are a few models that are made in Japan but they are mostly for the domestic market only.
As a pioneer in the development of electronic products and appliances, Sharp has a strong reputation for innovative technology and quality manufacturing. The company continued to innovate in the TV space, offering cutting-edge technologies such as 4K and 8K displays, advanced smart TV features, and sleek designs.
Sony
Sony Corporation, yet another renowned Japanese multinational conglomerate, was founded in 1946 and is known for its electronics, gaming, and entertainment products. With 36 manufacturing facilities in Asia, including 20 in Japan, it’s challenging to pinpoint exactly where their TVs are made.
During my investigation, I found out that Sony does manufacture TVs in Japan for the domestic market, but it’s hard to get exact model information. Thus, while Sony is a leading TV brand globally, finding a TV made in Japan by Sony might be a difficult endeavor. Despite this, Sony TVs are still highly sought after for their exceptional picture quality, innovative features, and sleek designs.
Toshiba
Toshiba was founded in 1939 and was once a leading TV manufacturer in Japan. However, from what I was able to find they stopped manufacturing TVs in Japan and now outsource most of their TV production to cheaper locations.
If you’re looking for a Toshiba TV made in Japan, pre-2015 models are your best bet. Toshiba has historically been known for its reliable and affordable TVs, with a focus on providing great value for money.
Although finding a Japanese-made tv by Toshiba might be a challenge, their TVs still offer solid performance and are worth considering if you’re in the market for a new television.
Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation, another prominent Japanese multinational electronics company, was founded in 1918 and has been a household name for years. Sadly, during my research, I discovered that just like the above brands they also no longer manufacture TVs in Japan, as this change only happened recently in 2021.
Panasonic continues to be a popular choice for consumers, but finding a Panasonic TV that is manufactured in Japan is no longer possible. Despite the shift in manufacturing locations, Panasonic TVs remain a strong contender in the global TV market.
Hitachi
Hitachi, Ltd., another Japanese multinational conglomerate, was founded in 1910 and has a long history in the electronics industry. However, they now manufacture most of their TV sets in Turkey, and pre-2012 models are likely to be made in Japan.
Hitachi has been a pioneer in the electronics industry, developing Japan’s first transistor television in 1959. Over the years, they have continued to innovate, offering a range of TVs with various features and technologies.
Hitachi TVs are known for their quality, reliability, and value for money.
What most brands stopped manufacturing TVs in Japan
From what I was able to figure most Japanese TV brands have stopped manufacturing TVs in Japan due to various factors, such as cost reduction, global competition, and shifting consumer preferences. Manufacturing in Japan is more expensive compared to other countries, and to remain competitive, companies have moved their production to locations where labor and production costs are lower.
Furthermore, with the rise of Korean and Chinese TV manufacturers, the competition in the global market has intensified. To compete with these manufacturers, Japanese TV brands have had to adapt by focusing on higher-end models or moving their production facilities to cheaper locations.
Conclusion
It is clear that TVs that are made in Japan are rare. While Japanese TV brands like Sharp, Sony, Toshiba, Panasonic, and Hitachi are still prominent in the industry, most of their production has shifted to other locations.
