# Kadokawa Shoten

> Japanese publishing brand (previous company name)

**Wikidata**: [Q1054765](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1054765)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kadokawa_Shoten)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kadokawa-shoten

## Summary
Kadokawa Shoten is a Japanese publishing brand and former company name, established in 1945 by Gen'yoshi Kadokawa. It operates as a public company under Kadokawa Future Publishing, specializing in publishing and video game industries. Headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, it is renowned for its light novel magazines, manga, and anime-related publications.

## Key Facts
- **Founded**: November 10, 1945, by Gen'yoshi Kadokawa.
- **Headquarters**: Fujimi 1-8-19, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 102-8078, Japan.
- **Parent Company**: Kadokawa Future Publishing.
- **Industry**: Publishing and video game development.
- **Notable Imprints**: Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko, Asuka Comics, Kadokawa Bunko.
- **Stock Exchange**: Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (Code: 9468.T).
- **Employees**: Approximately 160 staff members.
- **Subsidiaries/Brands**: Comptiq, Monthly Shōnen Ace, Gundam Ace.
- **Publications**: The Sneaker magazine (1993–2011), Monthly Shōnen Ace (since 1994), Gundam Ace (since 2001).
- **Video Game Affiliations**: FromSoftware (partial ownership), publisher of titles like *Dark Souls* and *Elden Ring*.
- **Identifiers**: ISNI 000000012230584X, VIAF 154122303, GND 10104104-4.
- **Website**: http://shoten.kadokawa.co.jp/ (Japanese).
- **Social Media**: Twitter (@KDS_PR), Facebook (KADOKAWAanime).

## FAQs
**What is Kadokawa Shoten's primary business?**  
Kadokawa Shoten specializes in publishing light novels, manga, and magazines, while also operating in the video game industry through subsidiaries like FromSoftware.

**When was Kadokawa Shoten founded?**  
The company was established on November 10, 1945.

**What are some of Kadokawa Shoten's notable publications?**  
Key publications include *The Sneaker* magazine, *Monthly Shōnen Ace*, and *Gundam Ace*, alongside imprints like Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko.

**Is Kadokawa Shoten publicly traded?**  
Yes, it is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under the code 9468.T.

**What is Kadokawa Shoten's relationship with FromSoftware?**  
Kadokawa Shoten's parent company, Kadokawa Future Publishing, partially owns FromSoftware, known for games like *Dark Souls* and *Elden Ring*.

## Why It Matters
Kadokawa Shoten is a pivotal force in Japanese pop culture, driving the global popularity of light novels, manga, and anime. Through its publishing imprints and video game ventures, it has shaped genres like J-horror and action RPGs, fostering international franchises. Its business model, blending traditional publishing with modern media, underscores its adaptability and influence in global entertainment.

## Notable For
- **Light Novel Pioneer**: Dominated the light novel market through magazines like *The Sneaker*.
- **Anime and Manga Hub**: Published iconic titles such as *Gundam Ace* and *Monthly Shōnen Ace*.
- **Global Gaming Impact**: Contributed to the success of FromSoftware's critically acclaimed games.
- **Cultural Export**: Played a key role in exporting Japanese media worldwide, enhancing the global appeal of anime and manga.
- **Diverse Media Portfolio**: Operates across publishing, video games, and digital media, ensuring cross-platform reach.

## Body

### Founding and Corporate Structure
Kadokawa Shoten was founded on November 10, 1945, by Gen'yoshi Kadokawa as a publishing house. It evolved into a public company under the umbrella of Kadokawa Future Publishing, which oversees its operations. The company is headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, at Fujimi 1-8-19, and employs approximately 160 individuals. Kadokawa Shoten is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (Code: 9468.T), reflecting its status as a major player in Japan's media industry.

### Publishing and Media
The company is renowned for its publishing imprints, including Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko, which specialized in light novels, and magazines like *The Sneaker* (1993–2011), *Monthly Shōnen Ace* (established in 1994), and *Gundam Ace* (launched in 2001). These publications have been instrumental in promoting genres such as science fiction, fantasy, and mecha anime, catering to diverse audiences in Japan and internationally.

### Video Game Industry
Through its parent company, Kadokawa Future Publishing, Kadokawa Shoten has stakes in prominent video game developers, notably FromSoftware. This association has linked Kadokawa to acclaimed titles such as *Dark Souls*, *Bloodborne*, and *Elden Ring*, which have garnered global recognition for their challenging gameplay and narrative depth. This strategic investment highlights Kadokawa's expansion beyond traditional publishing into interactive media.

### Digital and Global Presence
Kadokawa Shoten maintains an active online presence through its website (http://shoten.kadokawa.co.jp/) and social media platforms, including Twitter (@KDS_PR) and Facebook (KADOKAWAanime). These channels facilitate engagement with fans and promote its extensive catalog of publications and media projects. The company's ISBN prefix (978-4-04) further underscores its prolific output in the publishing sector.

### Cultural and Historical Significance
As a cornerstone of Japanese media, Kadokawa Shoten has influenced the evolution of light novels, manga, and anime. Its role in publishing seminal works and fostering talent has contributed to the global popularity of Japanese pop culture. The company's ability to adapt to technological advancements, such as the rise of digital media and gaming, ensures its continued relevance in the modern entertainment landscape.

### Related Entities and Subsidiaries
Kadokawa Shoten's network includes subsidiaries like Comptiq and imprints such as Asuka Comics. These entities collectively strengthen its market position, enabling the company to diversify its offerings across different demographics and media formats. Collaborations with other industry leaders, such as FromSoftware, further solidify its impact on global entertainment trends.

### Legacy and Adaptation
From its founding in post-war Japan to its current status as a multinational media conglomerate, Kadokawa Shoten has demonstrated resilience and innovation. By embracing emerging technologies and expanding into new markets, the company has secured its legacy as a driving force in both traditional and digital media, ensuring its continued influence in the global cultural sphere.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. CiNii Research
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. Google Knowledge Graph