Japan Bitcoin Industry Co., Ltd. has introduced Aurora, a self-custodial Bitcoin payments platform for Japanese companies selling anime, manga, games and other content to international customers. The service enables Bitcoin payments over the Lightning Network (a faster Bitcoin payment network) and provides merchants with point-of-sale and API tools for invoicing, payment tracking and integrations. JBI said the overseas market for Japanese anime content reached ¥2.17 trillion in 2024, a 26% year-over-year increase, even as geographic payment restrictions leave many international fans unable to buy streaming subscriptions, digital merchandise and limited-access releases. Each merchant operates its own self-custodial Lightning node, receiving Bitcoin directly, while Aurora addresses operational requirements including node uptime, liquidity, accounting, auditing and conversion to fiat. The company said the model avoids JBI taking custody of customer funds and draws on its two years operating UseBitcoin.jp, where customers have bought digital gift cards including au PAY, V-Preca and Kyash cards with Lightning payments. JBI is showcasing Aurora at Bitcoin Asia 2026 in Hong Kong and inviting media, potential merchants and wallet providers to meet its team.