#Japan #Tokyo #Tohan #YURIKO #MyNavi Publishing

Mynavi Publishing and Tohan's New Business Venture

Mynavi Publishing, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and Tohan, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, have embarked on an innovative direct export model aimed at the Simplified Chinese market. This venture focuses on exporting books released and published in Japan to China, catering to the increasing interest in Japanese illustration techniques.

Traditionally, the overseas expansion of Japanese publications involved selling translation rights to local publishers, who then developed the translated versions. However, this latest initiative diverges from that model. In this collaboration, Mynavi Publishing will take charge of translation, editing, and publishing, while Tohan will handle sales and distribution—enabling a Japan-led strategy in international markets.

Launch of a Popular Workbook

The project kicks off with the simplified Chinese edition of the well-received illustration technique book, YURIKO's Workbook on Shadow Design, which has quickly gained popularity in Japan. Titled 光影救星！YURIKO的光影上色术, the simplified Chinese version is set to be available in Chinese bookstores and e-commerce platforms starting in early October 2026.

This move aims to provide Chinese creators with access to high-quality resources, capitalizing on the growing demand for illustration and creator-oriented practical books stemming from the rising interest in Japanese manga and anime culture.

New Approach to Overseas Publishing

Rather than depending solely on translation rights, Mynavi and Tohan are creating a new publishing distribution model. Mynavi has experience in producing and distributing translations in the German market, while Tohan has built a robust sales network for Japanese books in various international markets, including China.

By combining their strengths, these companies aim to not only supply translated versions but also make an impact on local audiences by directly providing the original content formulated in Japan. This strategic collaboration is viewed as a significant shift in the Japanese publishing industry's approach to expanding overseas.

Supporting Illustration Skills in China

The demand for Japanese illustration books has surged in China, paralleling the country's increasing appreciation for manga and anime. Mynavi has observed significant sales of their illustration-related titles among local publishers offering simplified Chinese editions. The selected book, YURIKO's Workbook on Shadow Design, allows learners to systematically and practically understand how shadow design greatly influences character illustrations.

The book quickly garnered support in Japan, with a reprint decision made within just a week of release. This favorable reception demonstrates the necessity and eagerness for such educational resources among aspiring Chinese illustrators and creators.

Special Editions for Local Readers

In the competitive landscape of the Chinese book market, enticing customers with added value such as special editions and purchase incentives is common. For the launch, Mynavi and Tohan will include two original cards illustrated by YURIKO and offer a reversible cover that showcases both the Japanese and simplified Chinese versions, ensuring it stands out as more than just a translated book. This initiative aims to enhance the overall purchasing experience, catering to the expectations of local readers.

Strengthening Global Outreach

Mynavi Publishing is committed to broadening the reach of Japanese creators' works to both domestic and international audiences. With a focus on publishing ventures initiating from June 2025 in Germany, they have already begun promoting the unique artistic expressions of Japanese creators. This latest collaboration marks an important step in enhancing the global visibility of Japanese art and design.

Global Strategy Manager Taichi Koyama from Mynavi Publishing commented, "We believe that Japanese content has the power to captivate readers worldwide. The growing interest in Japanese manga and anime culture in regions like Asia highlights a strong curiosity about the techniques and creative know-how that underpin these works. We are delighted to facilitate access to translated versions for readers and creators in Simplified Chinese regions, alongside Tohan, as we evolve this enriching business model into a success."

Sales Channels

The books will be available through major Chinese e-commerce services and select stores specializing in foreign publications, along with other outlets distributing Simplified Chinese books.

Publication Information

• - Title: 光影救星！YURIKO的光影上色术
• - Author: YURIKO
• - Publisher: Mynavi Publishing
• - Release Date: August 26, 2026
• - Format: B5
• - Page Count: 168
• - Bonus: Two original cards
• - Cover Design: Reversible cover

About Mynavi Publishing

Mynavi Publishing was established in October 2015, originally part of Mynavi Corporation's publishing division. Guided by the philosophy of fostering knowledge, learning, and communication, the publisher aims to support readers' professional and personal development across various genres.
Mynavi Publishing Official Website