This guide shares practical tips to help you navigate your paperwork, expectations, and mindset—from the moment you receive the offer until your first 90 days on the job.

You’ve already taken a courageous first step. I’ve got your back.

Japan’s work culture is distinct, and its labor laws are designed to protect employees in ways that might differ from what you’re used to. At the heart of this process is the employment contract—a critical document that shapes your work life in Japan.

If you’re a foreign resident in Japan looking for work, career advice, or dealing with labor-related issues—Hello Work might be your best ally.

Beyond your resume and technical qualifications, it’s your competencies that truly stand out. In Japan’s team-oriented, harmony-driven culture, simply stating “I’m a team player” on your rirekisho (履歴書) isn’t enough. Employers want evidence.

Job hunting? Your CV’s your ticket—but in Japan, it’s a whole different beast: Rireki-sho (履歴書) and Keireki-sho (経歴書).

Job hunting here can feel like cracking a code, but I’ve hired stars and seen the process. Let’s land you a gig!

Hi there! I’m Aki—Japanese, 12 years in U.S. HR, now decoding Japan. Lifetime employment (Shushin Koyo) vs meritocracy—it’s the work culture clash I can’t stand. Japan’s “job for life” sounds secure, but it’s a trap I’d never take.  In the U.S., Results rule—sink or swim, and I love it. After seeing both, here’s the raw truth: one locks you in, the other sets you free.

Benefits vary by company, but some are must-haves under Japan’s laws, while others are company perks. Below, I walk you through statutory social insurance (Shakai Hoken)—what’s required, how it works, and tips for foreigners. Let’s dive in!

Let’s talk money—how Japan pays, taxes, and perks you. Pay’s monthly, deductions are wild, and overtime’s a beast—here’s the scoop for foreigners as full-time permanent employees.

Japan’s employment scene has flipped in recent years—and it’s a huge win for foreigners! A shrinking workforce is one driver, but it’s not the only one. Job mobility’s up, protections are rock-solid, and opportunities are ripe. Let’s dive in!

Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. Japan’s workplace culture is famous for its unique communication style, shaped by tradition, hierarchy, and a deep commitment to group harmony. For foreigners looking to thrive in Japanese business settings, understanding these norms is a must. Let’s dive in!

Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. After decades in HR, I’ve got a treasure trove of insights on Japan’s workplace culture—and I could go on and on ! Not every company fits these molds, but they’ll give you a solid idea of what to expect. Here we go!

1. Cultural Norms and Expectations

Hi there! I’m Aki, a Japanese former HR head from the global finance industry. I’ve conducted countless interviews with foreign candidates in Japan—solo, alongside hiring managers, and poring over feedback sheets. Based on that experience, here are my Do’s and Don’ts for landing a job in Japan. Let’s get you ready to shine!

Hey there! I’m Aki, a former HR head from Japan’s financial world. Thinking of coming/moving to Japan with a job in mind? Here are some paths I’ve seen work, complete with pros and cons to help you decide.