Car nav app for Japan?

[patent10021]

It seems that most car nav apps are available worldwide except Japan. The only reason I can think of is that there most be some bad ass nav app specifically for Japan made in Japan. Unfortunately I don't think this is the case because I can't find squat. Only crappy little ghetto apps.

I use the Apple Maps app and it provides great turn by turn accuracy but it's nothing like a true car nav app.


Why do these companies have North American, European and sometimes even Chinese maps but none for Japan? There could only be one reason since language is obviously not a factor seeing as Chinese maps are available. Maybe small market? Everyone here uses car nav systems though so it's a little strange as to why there are no solid Navigon/Tom Tom like iPhone apps.

 

[199708]

not sure what percentage, but majority of vehicles have navigation systems installed especially those made after 2005. Why have one on your phone when you already have it in your car.

If you dont drive, why have navigation (6000en) when google maps is enough when on foot.

There isn't much demand here I suppose, otherwise there would be lots of apps fighting for pole position.


Correct me if I'm wrong

 

[Gokunama]

There are a couple navigation apps, but besides the basic app for foreigners, which doesn't provide turn by turn directions, but just a very quick way to find an addresses location in Japan, the other apps look to me like the menus and place names are written entirely in Japanese.

[app]Navico All Japan Map Version[/app] <- display and voice guidance in Japanese. Entirely offline, very large download.

[app]いつもNAVI[/app] <-- can't read the app description due to it being entirely in Japanese

[app]Japan Map (itsumo navi)[/app] <-- basic location finder for foreigners

These might only be available in the Japan iTunes Store.