The article documents how Japan is embracing new approaches such as engaging social enterprises in tackling social issues and creating systemic changes in society in the process. Stories of how a non-profit revolutionised the elderly care sector, how a social entrepreneur brought wind power to the homes of many, and how a foundation brought the public and private sectors to create and finance a project that will delay dementia for the aging population in Japan, are featured. Drawing these case studies of cross-sectoral collaboration and social innovation projects across the fields of healthcare and clean energy, Japan shows clear potential to become one of the leading social economies in Asia. The article also highlights key trends and players in the social investing ecosystem in Japan and brings forth an optimistic viewpoint of the Japanese landscape. This article will be useful for policymakers or players in the social innovation space to find success stories that they would like to emulate.