Growing Sustainable Happiness through Omotenashi
Last week, our portfolio companies, funds, partners and their families gathered in Japan as guests of Happiness Capital and the Lee Kum Kee family for Happiness Family Week . This special event united over 120 participants from 11 countries to immerse themselves in understanding Omotenashi – the spirit of Japanese hospitality.
The Heart of Omotenashi
Omotenashi is much more than hospitality – it’s a philosophy of wholehearted, selfless service that means ‘to wholeheartedly look after guests’. Rooted in centuries-old cultural traditions, Omotenashi, centres on anticipating guests’ needs, paying meticulous attention to detail, and surpassing expectations to ensure memorable experiences. Throughout the week, Happiness Family participants experienced true Omotenashi in everything from a visit to the world renowned Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto, to a unique tea ceremony led by our Non-Executive Chaiman, Joi Ito, followed by tranquil moments of reflection beneath clears views of Mount Fuji.
Highlights from the Journey
Kiyomizudera Temple
One of Japan’s most cherished sites, Kiyomizu-dera rises above the wooded slopes of Kyoto, drawing spiritual significance from its ancient past. Founded in 780, this World Heritage Site blends traditional Buddhist architecture with breathtaking views of Kyoto. Our guests were invited to listen to a moving lecture from High Priest Eigen Onshi which offered timeless lessons in presence, gratitude, and mindfulness. After which there were opportunities to pause and reflect at the Jojuin (“Moon Garden”) and inside the surrounding sacred halls and temples.
Mount Fuji
Embracing the theme of mindfulness , the group ventured into the Hakone, region to witness the majesty of Mount Fuji . The mountain’s serene beauty and spiritual depth have inspired generations, symbolising tranquillity and elegance in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Followed by a wonderful late, outdoor lunch at the Fujisan winery the group were able to experience the many changing colours of Mount Fuji as the sun slowly set.
Business Symposium
While slow networking and mindful exploration were core to the trip, our true focus was on shaping perspectives of Japan as a thriving market for commercial partnerships and growth. Our final day was dedicated to our Business Symposium, where our guests mingled with C-Level Japanese Executives and Investors, forging new connections and exploring opportunities for collaboration.
Programme Highlights
Mr. David Lee and Ms. Jessie Lee shared valuable lessons with our founders, explaining how the Lee family is applying five generations of experience to position the Lee Kum Kee Group for success over the next 1,000 years
Our guests were also treated to insights and wisdom from our Non-Executive Chairman Joi Ito, who delivered a keynote on how Japan is approaching the rise of Agentic AI. He followed this with two fireside chats featuring leaders of the Japanese corporate landscape: Takeshi Niinami (former CEO of Suntory & Lawson), and Oki Matsumote (CEO, Monex Group). Together, they explored the forces shaping Japan’s corporate & venture ecosystems.
The afternoon session continued with several panel sessions as we welcomed representatives from Shibuya, Kobe, and Yokohama’s startup city initiatives, followed by practical tips from the leaders from Kirin, Mitsubishi Electric, and Marubeni’s CVC arms, and concluded with a discussion on trends in Japan’s VC ecosystem with participants from SBI, Eight Roads Ventures, and Shizen Capital. We were also granted a deep dive into Japan’s National Startup Strategy with Sho Ito the Director of Innovation Policy in Japan’s Cabinet Office
Reflections and Gratitude
Thank you to every founder, partner, and team member who made Happiness Capital Family Day 2025 so special. Our deepest appreciation goes to the Lee Family for their wisdom and generosity—for fostering a true meeting place of East and West and creating a space for inspiration, partnership, and lasting happiness.
Impact on Investment Philosophy
The Happiness Return, pioneered by Happiness Capital, is reshaping investment strategies. This gathering explored how investments can foster well-being for both people and the planet, potentially unlocking more meaningful financial, social, and environmental returns.
Looking Forward
The Happiness Family Day 2025 not only strengthened bonds among portfolio companies, investors, and partners but also inspired participants to consider how principles of happiness and well-being can be integrated into their business models and investment strategies.
As we left Tokyo, many of us felt a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. The challenge now is to take these lessons and apply them in our respective fields, working towards a future where business success is measured not just in profits, but in its positive impact on people and the planet.
