Welcome to AltStack.jp

An introduction to AltStack.jp: a directory of Japanese digital services built for those seeking local, privacy-conscious tech alternatives.

By Alexis Tabary
Published on May 28, 2025

In recent years, living and working in Japan, I’ve wanted to move part of my digital infrastructure closer to home. That’s when I realized how little I knew about the local tech ecosystem. While many excellent services exist, what was missing was a clear, accessible directory; something like European Alternatives, but focused on Japan.

That’s why I started AltStack.jp, with the help of my friends Olivier Mansion and Kazuo Fukuda.

What Is AltStack.jp?

AltStack.jp is a growing directory of Japanese alternatives to global digital services—cloud platforms, email providers, developer tools, SaaS products, and more.

It’s designed for individuals and organizations who want to:

  • Keep their data in Japan
  • Reduce reliance on large foreign tech platforms
  • Support local companies and communities
  • Explore tools designed with Japanese users in mind

The site is not a review platform. It doesn’t rank or rate services. Instead, it focuses on discovery: clear, neutral information to help you explore what’s available locally and decide what suits your needs.

What You’ll Find

AltStack.jp still features only a limited number of services, but we will gradually expand coverage across the following categories:

  • Hosting & Infrastructure – IaaS, cloud storage, domain providers
  • Communication Tools – email, video conferencing, chat
  • Developer Tools – Git hosting, CI/CD, documentation platforms
  • SaaS & Productivity – project management, CRM, invoicing, scheduling
  • Privacy-Friendly Services – tools with a focus on user data protection

Each entry includes a short description, key features, pricing info, and official links for further exploration.

Who Can Benefit from This Site?

Whether you’re a developer looking to host projects locally, a nonprofit seeking tools that align with Japanese data laws, or simply someone curious about what the domestic tech scene has to offer, AltStack.jp is here to help.

This project is a starting point, not an authority. I hope it helps make the local tech landscape a little more visible, accessible, and usable.