Top 5 Photo Editing Apps Popular in Japan

In a world where visual content reigns supreme, Japan boasts a unique selection of image editing apps that reflect its distinct culture and creativity. These apps come equipped with features similar to purikura (Japanese photobooths), such as skin smoothing effects, face slimming effects, stamp functions, and filters. In addition to these enhancements, users can easily change photo sizes, crop images into heart or star shapes, and apply mosaics. In this article, we will introduce these image editing apps in a ranking format based on each app’s number of downloads. Let's take a closer look at their features, user-friendliness, and functionalities.

Popular Photo Editing Apps (Ranked by Download Numbers)

1. Picsart
2. InShot
3. Snapseed
4. Adobe Lightroom
5. Photo Lab

1. Picsart

https://picsart.com/

Over 1,049,076,331 downloads (as of August 2024)

With over a billion downloads, this app offers more than 3,000 editing features for free. It allows users to easily edit and post their photos while automatically optimizing backgrounds, making it user-friendly even for beginners. Photos can be edited at high quality, and videos can be edited seamlessly with a wide variety of font styles available for adding text. One of Picsart’s strengths is that you can cut out and compose images quickly. It caters to various needs, enabling edits for food photography, fashion shots, interior images, and more, allowins users to produce high-quality images suitable for business purposes.

2. InShot

https://www.inshot.com/

Over 578,831,475 downloads (as of August 2024)

This app is designed for those who want to edit photos and videos specifically for social media posting. It features an abundance of stickers, stamps, emojis, and various text styles and music options available for free. It is particularly tailored for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok—making it the perfect option for creators on these apps. Additionally, it supports video formats in both 1080P and 4K resolution. InShot focuses on incorporating the latest trends; thus its editing options are continually updated. This allows users to create unique photos that stand out from the crowd by customizing their edits from a plethora of options.

3. Snapseed

https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/snapseed/id439438619 

Over 311,347,302 downloads (as of August 2024)

Snapseed allows users to edit their photos completely free without any in-app purchases required. It includes 29 types of image editing tools and filters that allow for detailed edits. It supports both JPG and RAW files as well. Users can edit images from smartphones and cameras directly on their phones without needing to transfer files to a PC, making it convenient for working on the goe. Furthermore, it offers unique features such as layering photos that aren't common in other apps. Many users have expressed surprise at discovering numerous new functions when trying Snapseed after growing bored with their current editing tools.

4. Adobe Lightroom

https://www.adobe.com/jp/products/photoshop-lightroom.html

Over 309,093,589 downloads (as of August 2024)

Lightroom boasts an extensive array of presets and filters that leverage AI technology for photo editing. Users have full control over color adjustments which allows them to create eye-catching images easily. While it excels at landscape editing rather than portrait retouching (such as facial enhancements), it's recommended for those looking to enhance scenic photographs—like blurring backgrounds to make subjects stand out more effectively. Additionally, with the new "AI Removal" feature, users can delete unwanted elements with just one tap.

5. Photo Lab 

https://photolab.me/

Over 277,193,248 downloads (as of August 2024)

Photo Lab is particularly rich in effects; it offers not only stylish effects but also amusing ones as well. With features like photo frames and animation effects available, users can repurpose their photos not just for social media but also as icons or wallpapers. The app includes skin-smoothing filters specifically designed for portraits among its wide range of functionalities. Additionally popular is the feature that transforms captured photos into illustrations—creating vibrant artwork from portraits suitable for birthday cards or other creative uses. The ease of use makes this app accessible for anyone wanting to edit their photos effortlessly.

Conclusion

Currently in Japan there are numerous photo editing options available; each app has its own unique characteristics. The best app depends on how you intend to use your photos or videos—what specific functions you wish to prioritize—and what you hope to achieve with your edited images. While all these apps include advertisements at times, most offer many features for free so you can create satisfying photos or videos easily. We hope that by using these apps, users can create memorable images and videos that leave a lasting impression!

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