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English teaching in Japan are one of the most common jobs for foreigners, but ther are other career fields and jobs besides English teaching in Japan that surprisingly doesn’t require high level of Japanese. That said, you do need some level of basic-to-intermediate speaking skills to live comfortably in Japan regardless.

It’s not easy to find a job in Japan if you can’t speak (or read and write) Japanese, but you still can find top positions with attractive benefits — if you search it right. In this article, check out the top English-speaking careers in Japan with high salaries and low Japanese requirements.

Jump to:

Can I Really Work in Japan Without Knowing Any Japanese?
Recruiter and Consultant Job in Japan
Real Estate Jobs in Japan
English Teaching Careers in Japan
IT and Engineer Jobs in Japan
Hospitality Jobs in Japan
Customer Service Positions in Japan
Graphic, Product or Creative Designer Career in Japan
Study Abroad Staff in Japan
Where to Find Jobs in Japan (With Low Japanese Requirement)

Can I Really Work in Japan Without Knowing Any Japanese?

The short answer is yes, but it’s not that simple. You can get a job without needing Japanese, and that job doesn’t have to be only an English teacher.

You have more limited options, and they depend largely on your skills and the current job market trend. The IT industry, for example, is one of the largest industries in the Japanese economy. The Japan Times estimated that the country would face a shortage of 600,000 IT-related professionals by 2030. A lot of companies are eager to hire foreign IT workers as a solution. If you have a background or knowledge in tech, recruiters in top companies are willing to hire you from overseas and sponsor your stay in Japan.

It’s relatively easy to get accepted as an English teacher, ALT and eikaiwa teacher if you come from an English-speaking country. There are plenty of opportunities in a lot of industries, even if you only speak English. In fact, a lot of foreigners, who’ve lived here for more than 10 years, can’t speak Japanese.

There’s a catch, though: you’re closing a lot of doors if you don’t bother to learn at least conversational-level Japanese. Live here long enough, and eventually, you will realize that you can miss out on getting promotions and attractive job offers.

Even a decent conversational level or the ability to speak Japanese confidently (which is the focus of Coto Academy), can widen your job opportunities. Even if that job doesn’t require Japanese, showing that you are learning will give you a good impression.

English-speaking Jobs in Japan With No Japanese Required

We’ll be covering jobs that fall under the Engineer/Humanities visa, or the 技術/人文知識/国際業務 (gijutsu/jinbun-chishiki/kokusai-gyoumu). Most professional jobs fall under this category because they include fields like human resources, accounting, tech, marketing and sales.

What we won’t cover are the jobs under the Specified Skills Visa, or 特定技能ビザ (tokutei ginou bisa). The type of jobs you do on this type of visa are work-related tasks, like construction, automobile maintenance, food service, hospitality and nursing care. We won’t be recommending blue-collar and part-time jobs.

1. Recruiter and Consultant Job in Japan

A career at an international consulting firm in Japan is attractive to foreigners for a few reasons. Generally, even if you are a fresh graduate, you will still receive a higher base salary.

It’s also one of the most popular options for foreigners who want to change their careers. This is because it’s possible to become a recruiter without any prior experience or relevant background. You don’t need a relevant degree like human resources, psychology or communication — although that’s always a plus point. Instead, hiring managers and recruiting companies decide on the right candidate based on their soft skills: negotiation, strong communication, confidence and critical thinking.

Most of all, you don’t need Japanese language ability to be a recruiter. Most of your clients will be bilingual, and most of the consulting firm’s databases are managed in English. In fact, you should be able to speak it well, because negotiations are done in English.

The life of a consultant is coveted and competitive. Rather than HR, think of recruiters as a sales job. To be a top biller, you need to be able to thrive under pressure and in a fast-paced environment. But it’s extremely rewarding, too.

The annual starting salary is typically 3.6 million JPY, but the number can go up depending on the size and contract of your company. Keep in mind that this doesn’t include your bonuses yet. If you perform well, you can easily double and triple your income.

Top consulting firms in Japan are Robert Walters, Michael Page and Hays, but you will also find mid to smaller-sized recruitment companies.

You can also be an internal recruiter for global and international companies, so always check the “Careers” page of your dream company. There might be an open position for talent acquisition specialists in Japan.

2. Real Estate Jobs in Japan

To buy a house, invest in a property or hunt for an apartment, you have to deal with real estate agents and go through rigorous procedures — all in Japanese. In 2020, the country recorded 2.89 million foreigners living here, so there was high demand for English-speaking housing agents.

Now, a lot of real estate companies provide multilingual support, including English. Some of them exclusively specialize in handling foreign clients.

There was a high demand for English-speaking housing agents in Japan. In 2020, the country recorded 2.89 million foreigners living here — and a big chunk of them have trouble going to the typical Japanese real estate company. With travel restrictions and borders easing, we can expect a surge of newcomers and returning international residents.

Now, you can find real estate agencies that specialize in finding an apartment for foreigners, which is where you can come in. Usually, experience in real estate brokerage transactions is preferred, but a lot of companies welcome candidates with relevant experiences.

Another attractive feature is the commission system, too. Top salespeople can earn up to 20 million JPY as compensation.

3. English Teaching Jobs in Japan

The first thing that comes to mind when you put “English” and “jobs in Japan” together is “English teacher”. In order to teach English in Japan, you will need to have a Bachelor’s degree — but it doesn’t have to be relevant to education. Teaching certifications, like the TEFL, are preferred but generally not required.

You can’t group all English teachers the same.

1. ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)

More than half of the English teachers in Japan are ALTs. As an ALT, you’re not in charge of teaching the whole class. Rather, you’re working with the Japanese teacher at the school you’re assigned to. Your role is to become the language instructor and “cultural ambassador”.

You don’t need any educational license, master’s degree or relevant education degree to be an ALT.

2. Eikaiwa Teacher

Eikaiwa is an English conversation school, and the students can either be children or adults. The word “Eikaiwa” stems from 英 or “Ei” (English) and 会話 or “Kaiwa” (Conversation). Giant Eikaiwa companies include NOVA, ECC, AEON, Berlitz or Peppy Kids Club.

3. Private school or university teacher

Salaries for ALT and Eikawa teachers are decent, but not the best. In terms of a career within the education industry in Japan, becoming a full-time teacher at a private school and university is your best bet to nail a higher salary and better career progression.

There are over 700 universities in Japan, and some of them will have an English learning program. Schools will often require you to have at least a master’s degree in education, alongside TEFL or TESOL, and even prior teaching experience.

Other than the above, you can become an English teacher for adults or kindergartens.

Here are some popular job sites to search for English:

4. IT and Tech Engineer Jobs in Japan

There’s no denying that Japan is facing an IT shortage, so having a background in IT can seriously make you a sought-after candidate. You can find more than 100 programming jobs on job platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor alone, and it’s easy to see why. Japan’s IT industry takes about 3% of the world market, and all companies, regardless if they’re traditional Japanese or international, need web designers, developers and IT professionals.

Because of this lopsided supply-demand IT job market situation, requirements for the Japanese language are relatively low — sometimes none at all. Startup and unicorn companies like Mercari and Zehitomo hire tech engineers from overseas. Japanese technology group NEC partnered with Persol Career have provided an app that matches companies in Japan with Indian tech engineers.

Tokyo Dev, one of the leading IT job sites in Japan, did a survey of more than 435 software engineers living in Japan. The average salary is 8.5 million yen per year — which is almost half more than what the average worker in Japan makes (6.2 million yen).

Out of all of them, only a third can speak Japanese fluently, and 80% of these employees use English as the primary language to communicate with their coworkers.

Note that even though there is a big pool of vacant engineering and tech positions, the roles are still coveted. You will need to be apt in JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Python (all common coding languages), but some corporates may use TypeScript, C++ and SQL.

Here are some popular job sites that are specifically for IT and tech-related roles in Japan:

We’ve created a separate article dedicated to listing IT job sites in Japan. Check them out here.

5. Hospitality Jobs in Japan

In 2019 (pre-COVID), Japan recorded 8 million overseas travelers. Urban centers like Tokyo and famous holiday destinations are generally more foreign-friendly. Besides English-speaking Japanese staff, some hotels will have native customer support employees: front desk agents, chefs, PR staff and general managers. If you can bring relevant experience and background to the table, check out the job listings on Career Cross and Daijob.

Another great way to look for job vacancies is by exploring the career section of each company’s website. Global hotel chains will also do internal transfers or approach prospective candidates themselves.

6. Customer Service Positions in Japan

Responsibilities of a customer service staff include resolving customer queries, recommending solutions, and guiding service users through features and functionalities. To be successful in this role, you should be an excellent communicator. Generally, Japan-based companies favor bilingual customer service, but if you’re a mid-career professional, there are open positions that require little Japanese: supervisors, site directors, managers.

If a company deals with a large volume of foreign customers, they may hire You can find customer service job advertisements in Japan in recruitment agencies like Michael Page, Hays and Robert Walters.

7. Graphic, Product or Creative Designer Career in Japan

Designers are also highly demanded jobs in Japan at the moment. Whether it’s UI/UX specialist, graphic designer or product designer, your main selling point will be your hard skills and portfolio. General requirements include knowledge of Photoshop and Illustrator, but some companies may require advanced skills in HTML, CSS and JavaScript (depending on the position). You can find more job listings on Google.

8. Study Abroad Staff in Japan

Currently, Japan is restricting the number of foreign students who can enter from their home countries (subject to change). The industry might be in the lull right now, but things are starting to pick back up.

Usually, you can go and live in Japan as a student in two ways: independent application, where you find a university and apply directly, or through an agent. Companies like GogoNihon and Gaijinpot help foreign students apply for a school — university or Japanese language school — and a student visa. Besides that, they provide additional support, like helping you find an apartment or share a house.

Because they are dealing with international students, these agencies not just looking for English-speaking staff, but native Korean, French, Chinese, Vietnamese and Italian student coordinators, too.

Universities in Japan with an English track program — or at least those that deal with a large volume of foreign students — will also hire foreigners to manage their students.

Where to Find Jobs in Japan (With Low Japanese Requirement)

The best chance to get a career in Japan that doesn’t need high Japanese skills is through browsing job posting sites and hiring platforms like LinkedIn, GlassDoor, Jobs in Japan, Career Cross and GaijinPot Jobs.

Besides that, we recommend that you do your own research. Find out about the industry and look for companies that you might like. Visit their website. Most companies have a designated Careers page (“Work with Us”, “Careers”).

If you have more years of experience in your pocket working in a niche industry (like healthcare, automotive or infrastructure), approach a recruiter. They deal with highly specialized positions that are often mid-career or even at C-levels, so you have a better chance of being matched with a potential job in a top company that is willing to negotiate your terms and salary.

Not sure about your Japanese level? Take our free Japanese language assessment test

Want to set your career up for success in Japan? Improve your prospect and open more doors. Get in touch with us and let us know how we can help you achieve your Japanese language target. If you’re unsure where you need to start, we provide a free Japanese level check.

If you are planning to work in Japan, or finding a part-time job during your time studying in Japan. The business level Japanese skills are required in most cases. Before you start job hunting in Japan, let’s learn some kanji with our Kanji worksheet.

Our Business Japanese course designed to help you reach Japanese business fluency with an eye towards career advancement.

You can also level up your Japanese business emails with our online course.

Click here to download: FREE Kanji Writing Practice Sheet – JLPT N2 Unit 4 Recruitment – PDF

Click here to get the full N2 Kanji writing workbook – Digital Download

https://cotoacademy.com/course/business-japanese-language-course-tokyo/
https://cotoacademy.com/course/jlpt-prep-course/
https://cotoacademy.com/support/free-jlpt-kanji-writing-worksheet-pdfs-for-jlpt/

Planning to study for the JLPT? Short for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, JLPT is the most recognized Japanese language certification used by employers, universities, and immigration authorities to assess non-native speakers’ Japanese proficiency.

Passing the JLPT can open many doors, whether it’s landing a job in Japan or enhancing your visa application for permanent residence. But with so much at stake, the JLPT can also be one of the most stressful tests to take. You might be asking yourself: How long should I study? Which level should I aim for? Can I even take the test where I live?

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the JLPT, from registration to preparation strategies and resources, so you can walk into the exam room feeling confident and ready to pass!

If you’re looking to prepare for the JLPT, you can join classes online or in person in Tokyo at Coto Academy. Contact us today!

What is the JLPT?

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam administered by the Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) and the Japanese Ministry of Education. It evaluates and certifies the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers across five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced).

The JLPT was first introduced in 1984 in response to the growing demand for a reliable Japanese language certification. In its first year, only 7,000 people took the test.

The exam has evolved significantly over time. Back then, it was even used as a requirement for international students applying to Japanese universities. While the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) has largely taken its place in academia, the JLPT remains a trusted credential for employers and government agencies.

Originally held only once a year with just four levels, it now takes place twice a year (in July and December) in many countries, except in 2020, when it was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, all JLPT levels use multiple-choice questions and are machine-scored to maintain fairness.

What are the JLPT levels?

There are five JLPT levels, each designed to measure different stages of Japanese language proficiency.

The beginner levels, N5 and N4, focus on building a solid foundation in basic Japanese. N3 serves as a bridge between beginner and advanced skills, demonstrating the ability to handle everyday conversations comfortably. N2 is often considered business-level Japanese and is the minimum requirement for many companies hiring foreign workers. Finally, N1 represents full fluency and mastery of the language.

Here’s an overview of how many kanji and vocabulary words you’ll need to know for each JLPT level:

JLPT Level	Approximate Kanji to Know	Approximate Vocabulary to Know
N5	100	800
N4	300	1,500
N3	650	3,750
N2	1,000	6,000
N1	2,000+	10,000+

Below is a detailed explanation of each level to help you decide which JLPT exam best suits your current skills and goals:

1. JLPT N5

The JLPT N5 is the most basic level, designed to test fundamental Japanese language skills. It is roughly equivalent to A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This level evaluates your ability to understand and use simple phrases and everyday expressions written in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji.

At this point, you can prove that you can greet people and make some sense of the talks, but you can’t express your opinion yet.

While N5 alone may not open many job opportunities, it serves as a valuable goal for beginners!

2. JLPT N4

The JLPT N4 shows that you can handle basic Japanese used in daily life, including reading simple passages and understanding common conversations. It corresponds approximately to A2-B1 on the CEFR.

Passing the JLPT N4 is usually manageable for those who have already cleared N5. However, N4 requires knowing about 200 additional kanji and roughly 700 more vocabulary words compared to the N5 level.

3. JLPT N3

JLPT N3 is the intermediate level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, sitting right between the beginner (5 or N4) and advanced (N2 and N1) tiers. It’s designed to test your ability to understand everyday Japanese used in a range of familiar situations.

At this level, you’re expected to have a solid grasp of grammar, a growing vocabulary, and the ability to read slightly more complex texts.

For many learners, N3 is a practical and achievable milestone. It shows that you can handle daily conversations, understand basic news headlines, and navigate typical communication in a Japanese environment without much difficulty.

Professionally, JLPT N3 is often the minimum requirement for part-time jobs in Japan and may also be accepted for technical roles in global companies where some Japanese ability is helpful but not strictly essential, such as in IT or engineering teams.

4. JLPT N2

The JLPT N2 demonstrates advanced intermediate proficiency. At this level, you are expected to understand Japanese used in a wide variety of contexts, such as newspapers, TV shows, lectures, and business conversations.

N2 is often regarded as the benchmark for business-level Japanese. Although N2 is the threshold for fluency, more companies are relaxing their standards for Japanese fluency to the N3 level.

It is approximately equivalent to B2 on the CEFR.

5. JLPT N1

The JLPT N1 is the highest and most challenging level, indicating near-native fluency. It covers about 2,000 kanji and 10,000 vocabulary words. N1 tests your ability to comprehend complex texts such as academic articles, editorials, and detailed reports, as well as to follow nuanced conversations on specialized topics.

Although N1 is the highest JLPT level, learners can further challenge themselves by taking the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT). Unlike the JLPT, which focuses on general language proficiency, the BJT is designed to objectively measure practical communication skills in a Japanese business environment.

What is the structure of JLPT?

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) measures your language skills across four main areas: vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening. Each section is timed, and the structure varies slightly depending on the test level.

For JLPT N5 to N3, the exam is split into three sections:

Vocabulary
Grammar and Reading
Listening

For JLPT N2 and N1, vocabulary, grammar, and reading are merged into one section, making time management even more crucial.

Test duration by level

Level	Test Sections	Time Allotment	Total Duration
N1	Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading	110 minutes	165 min
N1	Listening	55 minutes	165 min
N2	Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading	105 min	155 min
N2	Listening	50 minutes	155 min
N3	Vocabulary	30 min	140 min
	Grammar + Reading	70 min
	Listening	40 min
N4	Vocabulary	25 minutes	115 minutes
	Grammar + Reading	55 minutes
	Listening	35 minutes
N5	Vocabulary	20 minutes	90 minutes
	Grammar + Reading	40 minutes
	Listening	30 minutes

JLPT section breakdown

1. Vocabulary (語彙)

This section tests your knowledge of Japanese words and kanji readings. You’ll need to recognize vocabulary in different formats, such as:

Kanji reading: Select the correct reading of the underlined kanji.
Orthography: Choose the correct kanji for a word written in hiragana.
Word formation: Complete compound words or expressions.
Paraphrasing: Pick a synonym or phrase with a similar meaning.
Usage and expressions: Choose the sentence where a word is used correctly or complete the missing parts.

2. Grammar (文法)

Though the dedicated grammar test section in JLPT is short, remember that the level-appropriate grammar is also embedded across other sections like reading and vocabulary. You may encounter:

Grammar fill-in-the-blank: Choose the appropriate grammar form or phrases.
Sentence order: Rearrange jumbled parts into a grammatically correct sentence.
Phrase completion: Select the best phrase to complete a sentence naturally.

3. Reading (読解)

The reading section is often considered one of the most difficult. You’ll read various texts and answer questions about them. The complexity increases at higher levels. Reading tasks may include:

Passage comprehension: Understand short to long texts.
Information retrieval: Extract key details from ads, notices, or schedules.
Integrated comprehension: Compare two passages (only in N2 and N1).
Thematic comprehension: Grasp the main idea of long-form texts (N2 and N1).

4. Listening (聴解)

The listening section of the JLPT tests how well you can understand spoken Japanese in real-life situations. You’ll hear short conversations, announcements, or monologues, and answer questions based on what you heard. Importantly, you only hear the audio once, and the questions appear after the audio, so active listening and memory are key.

Appropriate Response: Choose the best reply to a short conversation or question.
Task Comprehension: Understand what action is required based on instructions or requests.
Key Point Comprehension: Identify the main idea or important details of the dialogue.
Verbal Expressions: Interpret specific phrases or expressions in context.
Integrated Comprehension: (N2/N1 only) Follow longer conversations and compare opinions or viewpoints.

Passing score for JLPT

To pass the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test), you must pass both the overall score requirement and the minimum sectional score.

1. Overall score requirement

Each JLPT level has a different total score and passing threshold:

JLPT Level	Total Score	Passing Score
N1	180	100
N2	180	90
N3	180	95
N4	180	90
N5	180	80

2. Minimum sectional score

Similarly, the minimum required scores for each section of the JLPT vary by level. Note that for JLPT N4 and N5, vocabulary, grammar, and reading are combined into a single section!

JLPT Level	Vocabulary and Grammar		Reading		Listening
JLPT Level	Total score	Passing score	Total score	Passing score	Total score	Passing score
N1	19	60	19	60	19	60
N2	19	60	19	60	19	60
N3	19	60	19	60	19	60

JLPT Level	Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading		Listening
JLPT Level	Total score	Passing score	Total score	Passing score
N1	120	38	19	60
N2	120	38	19	60
N3	120	38	19	60

This means even if your total score meets the passing requirement, you won’t pass the test unless you also reach the minimum score in each individual section.

For instance, in N2, you must score at least 19 points in both the combined Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) & Reading section, and in the Listening section. You can’t rely on one strong area to make up for a weak one!

When and where can you take the JLPT?

Wondering if you can take the JLPT in your home country? The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is held twice a year, typically on the first Sunday of July and December, both in Japan and at select overseas locations.

However, some countries only offer the JLPT once a year, either in July or December, so it’s important to check your local schedule.

As of 2024, the JLPT is conducted in over 96 countries and regions, with more than 1.7 million applicants annually. That means if you live in or near a major city, there’s a good chance a test center is available nearby. You can check the official JLPT site for the list of overseas test sites.

How many hours does it take to study for JLPT?

The number of study hours needed to pass the JLPT can vary widely depending on the learner. If you’re living in Japan or regularly exposed to Japanese, especially kanji, you may progress more quickly.

Learners with a background in Chinese or other kanji-based languages also tend to pick things up faster due to their familiarity with the writing system.

Exam level	Hours needed to study
Exam level	With kanji knowledge	Without kanji knowledge
N5	350 hours	400 – 500 hours
N4	550 hours	800 – 1,000 hours
N3	900 hours	1325 hours
N2	1500 hours	2200 hours
N1	2150 hours	3900 – 4500 hours

Take a look at the table below for a rough estimate of how many hours you might need to spend studying for each JLPT level!

JLPT Level	Estimated Study Duration (1–2 hours/day)
N5	4 to 6 months
N4	7 to 9 months
N3	10 to 12 months
N2	14 to 18 months
N1	20 to 24+ months

If you study for 1–2 hours a day, you can expect to reach JLPT N5 or N4 in about 6 to 9 months. Advancing to N2 or N1, however, might take 2 to 3 years of consistent effort. Keep in mind that even some long-time learners haven’t reached N1!

You can read our more thorough breakdown of how many hours it takes to study for the JLPT!

How to study for the JLPT?

The best way to prepare for the JLPT combines multiple strategies: taking mock exams, joining a prep course, using varied study materials, immersing yourself in Japanese media, and, most importantly, being consistent.

Everyone learns differently, so there’s no single approach that works for everyone. The key is to find a routine that fits your goals and stick to it. Here’s how to get started:

1. Set up a study schedule

If you’re serious about passing the JLPT, especially with a high score, you need a realistic and consistent study plan. Design a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening.

For example:

Learn 10–20 new vocabulary words and kanji each day.
Dedicate one day a week to reading practice or mock test review.
Review previous content regularly to reinforce memory.

You never want to cram your JLPT exam preparation, especially for higher levels.

2. Take mock exams

Practice exams help you get familiar with the JLPT format and time constraints. Simulating real test conditions helps reduce anxiety and improves time management. It also reveals your weak points so you can focus your efforts more efficiently.

Pro tip: For N2 and N1, where reading, vocabulary, and grammar are combined into one long section, poor time management can cost you the entire reading section. Practice under timed conditions to develop your pacing.

3. Join a JLPT prep course

While it’s entirely possible to prepare for the JLPT on your own, many learners find that structured guidance and support make a huge difference.

Joining a course like the JLPT prep course at Coto Academy gives you access to expert teachers, well-organized lessons, and high-quality study materials. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by classmates who share your goal, creating a motivating and encouraging environment.

Coto Academy’s JLPT courses cover everything you need to succeed, from essential grammar and vocabulary to kanji and exam strategies. Whether you prefer a focused three-month intensive program or a year-round course, we offer options for all JLPT levels!

3. Gather study materials

To effectively prepare for the JLPT, it’s essential to use a mix of study tools. Combining different resources helps reinforce your skills in kanji, vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening, and keeps your study sessions more engaging.

Textbooks: JLPT-specific textbooks like the Shin Kanzen Master or TRY! series are great for targeted practice in grammar, vocabulary, and reading. We’ve curated a list of the best JLPT textbooks to help you choose the right one.
Online Resources & Apps: Make use of websites, mobile apps, and online platforms designed for JLPT learners. Need recommendations? Check out our blog on the best Japanese learning apps.
Flashcards: Flashcards are great for memorizing vocabulary and kanji. Tools like Anki, which use spaced repetition, can make your study more efficient. We’ve also created a guide to help you get started with Anki and listed our favorite Japanese decks.

4. Read newspapers and watch the news

This is especially helpful for JLPT N2 and N1 learners, where the reading section becomes more advanced. Anime can help you learn Japanese, but it might not be able to prepare you for JLPT N1.

Instead, you can switch to content that uses more formal and natural Japanese, like:

Japanese news (NHK, ANN on YouTube)
Newspapers and articles
TV shows that require concentration

Keep a dictionary handy and look up unfamiliar words as you read or listen. The more you expose yourself to real-world Japanese, the more comfortable you’ll become with kanji, grammar patterns, and idiomatic expressions.

Best JLPT textbooks

There are many great textbooks that you can buy to prepare for the JLPT, ranging from those that covers a lot of test element to specialized one that cover only vocabulary.

The great thing is that they are also a series, which mean

1. Genki

Best for: Beginners (N5 – N4)

If you’re enrolled in a Japanese language class, chances are you’ll be using either Genki or Minna no Nihongo. Both offer a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and kanji through clear explanations.

While it doesn’t specifically target JLPT N5 or N4, its content closely aligns with what you’ll need to pass those levels.

2. Minna no Nihongo

Best for: Beginners (N5 – N4)

Another go-to for beginners, Minna no Nihongo is used by a lot of language schools in Japan. It’s more grammar-focused than Genki and written mostly in Japanese, which really helps with immersion.

It does come with a translation and grammar guide in your language, so you won’t get lost.

3. Try! Japanese Language Proficiency Test

Best for: All levels

The Try! series is a favorite among JLPT test-takers because it’s made specifically for each JLPT level. It walks you through grammar with clear explanations, real-life example sentences, and practice questions that feel just like the actual test.

What’s great is how it breaks things down into three simple steps: first, you see how grammar is used in real conversations, then you get to practice the basics, and finally, you apply what you’ve learned through listening and reading exercises. Each book also comes with an audio CD and a separate answer booklet!

4. Shin Kanzen Master

Best for: Intermediate to advanced (N3 – N1)

The Shin Kanzen Master series is one of the most thorough JLPT prep resources out there for serious learners aiming for a high score on N2 or N1.

Each book focuses on a specific section of the test: grammar, vocabulary, reading, or listening, and goes into impressive detail. The vocabulary book, for example, is split into two parts: the first helps you learn words based on themes and everyday situations, while the second breaks them down by part of speech and usage.

There’s also a mock test section so you can get a feel for the real exam.

5. Tango Vocabulary Series

Best for: Vocabulary practice for all levels

This compact, almost pocket-sized vocabulary book comes with a red plastic sheet that lets you hide the Japanese vocabulary for self-review.

Each book is tailored to a specific JLPT level and organizes vocabulary by theme, like hobbies, family, and adverbs. It’s especially great for building a daily study habit and perfect for learners who want quick, portable practice sessions on the go.

6. Nihongo So Matome

Best for: N3–N1 prep with lighter content

This series is designed to be completed in a short time (around 6 weeks per book). It’s great for learners who prefer visual aids and concise explanations. It’s not as in-depth as Shin Kanzen Master, but it’s great for reinforcing key concepts efficiently.

Of course, there are other great textbooks! We’ve made a full coverage of the best JLPT textbooks you can get based on each level:

How to register for the JLPT

If you’re planning to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), it’s important to know when and how to register. The registration period opens a few months before the exam date, but the exact timing depends on where you plan to take the test.

In Japan:

For the July exam, registration usually opens around mid-March.
For the December exam, registration starts around mid-August.

Outside Japan:

For the July exam, registration is typically open from March to April.
For the December exam, registration usually runs from August to September.

Since these dates can vary by location, the best way to stay updated is visiting the official JLPT website.

How to register for the JLPT:

Create a MyJLPT account: This online account is your portal to managing your test registration and viewing your results later on.
Complete the online application: Fill out your personal details, choose your test level, and select your test location.
Make your payment: Test fees are generally around 5,500 yen but can vary by country and test center. Your registration isn’t complete until payment is confirmed.

Test seats can fill up fast, especially in popular locations. Make sure to register as soon as the application window opens to secure your spot.

Find Out More: How to Register for The JLPT

How to find your test results

Your JLPT results will be available online approximately two months after your test date. You can check them by logging into your MyJLPT account, where you’ll get instant access to your scores.

For those residing in Japan, the official physical certificate will be mailed to your registered address on a scheduled date. Once you receive it, you can also request an official transcript, which can be sent out right away.

If you need your results urgently, you may apply for express delivery of your transcript.

Want a detailed, step-by-step breakdown? Check out our full blog post on how to view your JLPT results!

Find Out More: How to Find Your JLPT Test Results

Tips for taking the test

We already have a dedicated blog post with practical tips for test day (check it out!), but here are some essential reminders to keep in mind before and during the exam:

1. Bring an analog watch

Sometimes the wall clock is behind you or in a hard-to-see spot. Having your own watch helps you manage time without looking suspicious. Just make sure it’s not a smartwatch, as those are strictly prohibited.

2. Pack extra supplies

Bring multiple sharpened pencils and an extra eraser — better safe than sorry! You don’t want to be stuck with a broken pencil halfway through a timed section.

3. Answer every question

There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so make sure you fill in something for every question, especially if time is running out. Guessing is better than leaving anything blank — you’ve got nothing to lose!

4. Arrive early

It might sound obvious, but make sure to get to the test center at least 30–45 minutes before the exam starts. This buffer time allows you to check in, find your seat, and mentally prepare without feeling rushed. It’s also a great time to visit the restroom — while there are breaks between test sections, you can expect long lines, so going beforehand can save you unnecessary stress.

Plan to take the JLPT? Join a JLPT prep Course at Coto Academy!

Preparing for the JLPT on your own can be challenging. With Coto Academy’s online and in-person JLPT prep courses, you’ll do more than just pass — you’ll unlock your full potential, reach your target score, and go beyond.

Our expert instructors guide you through all test sections, with classes available in Tokyo and online. You can choose between a 3-month intensive course or take more structured, year-round lessons. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a Japanese-level assessment and a free consultation to find the perfect course for you!

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Don’t believe us? See our past JLPT success rate story.

What is the JLPT?

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam that measures and certifies your Japanese language ability. It has five levels: N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced).

When is the JLPT held?

The JLPT is offered twice a year, typically in July and December. In some countries, it may only be available once a year, so check the official JLPT website or your local test center.

Where can I take the JLPT?

The JLPT is administered in over 90 countries and regions worldwide. Most major cities have test centers. You can find the full list of test locations on the official JLPT website.

How much does the JLPT cost?

The test fee is generally around 5,500 yen (approximately $50 USD), but fees may vary depending on the country or test site.

What is the passing score for the JLPT?

Passing requires meeting both the overall score and minimum sectional score requirements. Each level has different passing criteria, but generally, you need around 60% overall and a minimum score in each section.

Can I take the JLPT multiple times?

Yes, you can take the JLPT as many times as you want. Many learners retake the exam to improve their scores or advance to higher levels.

Can I pass JLPT N5 in 3 months?

If you study intensively and daily, you might be able to pass JLPT N5 within 3 – 6 months.

We’ve already presented the Japanese slang “nanpa” and “gyakunan” to describe flirting with someone – in particular on the street. This time, let’s get more serious and develop important words for dating in Japanese. Whether you live in Japan for a short time or for a few years, you never know what might happen. Who knows, maybe you will have a date with a Japanese friend tomorrow! So, how would you say dating in Japanese?

How to say “do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend” in Japanese?

First thing first, you might want to know if the lucky one is single. How would you ask “if he or she is already in a relationship? or If she has a boyfriend/he has a girlfriend?” in Japanese?

A natural, idiomatic way to say it would be 「つきあっている人がいますか？」”Tsukiatte iru hito ga imasu ka?”. Literally, “Is there someone you are dating?”. The verb “tsukiau” 「つきあう」「付き合う」is pretty much the same meaning as “dating” in English.

Example:

A:「つきあっている人がいますか？」
B: 「彼氏・彼女がいます。」

A: tsuki atte iru hito ga imasu ka
B: kareshi / kanojyo ga imasu.

A: Are you dating someone?
B: I have a boyfriend / girlfriend.

Asking to go on a Date with someone in Japanese, image, boy and girl talking, photo, picture, illustration — Boy asking the girl if she is dating someone

How to say “wanna go out with me?” in Japanese?

If he or she is single, you might wonder how to ask, “Will you go out with me?” in Japanese. Once again, the verb “tsukiau” will be one natural way to ask.

A: 「ぼくと／わたしとつきあってもらえませんか？」
A: Boku to / Watashi to tsukiatte moraemasen ka?

However, it is important to be careful with the verb “tsukiau”. While the broad definition is “to socialize,” the meaning changes greatly according to the context. Let’s review two of the most important nuances.

The main one is “to accompany somebody somewhere”, without any romantic involvement. It can be translated as “to be associated with”, “to go around together”, “to keep somebody’s company”.

「今日の帰りに本屋さんに行くんだけど、付き合ってくれない？」
Kyou no kaeri ni honya-san ni iku n da kedo, tsukiatte kurenai?
“I’m going to the bookshop on the way home today. Would you like to come along with me?”

「人と付き合うのを嫌う」
Hito to tsukiau no wo kirau.
To be insociable (to prefer one’s own company).

The second meaning is specific to love, as it means “to be in a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship.”

「３年付き合ってた彼と別れたばかりで、今付き合ってる人はいません。」
San-nen tsukiatteta kare to wakareta bakari de, ima tsukiatteru hito wa imasen.
I’m not going out with anyone at the moment. I’m just broken up with a guy I was with for three years.

「君達はいつからつきあっているのですか。」
Kimitachi wa itsu kara tsukiatte iru nodesu ka
How long have you been dating?

Another word for dating in Japanese

Another way to talk about dating in Japanese would be through the word “deeto” 「デート」 which derived from the English word “date”. The word was first introduced to the Japanese language at the end of the 19th century and became popular among the young generation of the middle class during the 20th century. It was used to express the day and time a man and a woman decide to meet. The introduction of the American dating culture was a culture shock, as previously, Japanese did not go on dates casually but always with the mindset of marriage.

「デートする」”deeto suru” to go on a date with
「彼氏・かのじょとデートがある」”kareshi/kanojyo to deeto ga aru” = to have a date with your boyfriend/girlfriend”
「デートに行ってくれますか？」”deeto no itte kuremasen ka?” = Will you go on a date with me?
「彼女をデートに誘った。」”kanojyo wo deeto ni sasotta” = I asked her for a date.

You might wonder if there is a difference between “deeto” and “tsukiau”. Well, deeto would be used for a few casual dates with someone, whereas “tsukiau” implies a deeper relationship with that person. How many dates you should have before it’s a relationship is still a mystery!

「付き合うまで何回デートする？」”tsukiau made nan kai deeto suru?” “how many date before being in a relationship?”

Now, that you have learnt how to say dating in Japanese, you are ready to go out asking someone on a date! If that date is successful, how would you ask to meet again?

「今度いつ会えますか。」
Kondo itsu aemasuka?
When can I see you next time?

Asking to go on a Date with someone in Japanese, boy asking girl, image, photo, picture, illustration — Boy asks the girl if he can meet her next time

If someone decides to cancel on you last minute, do you know what it’s called in Japanese slang? Find out more here!

Dating Culture in Japan – Valentine’s Day and White Day

Valentine’s Day (バレンタインデー) and White Day (ホワイトデー) are two significant romantic holidays in Japan, each with its unique traditions. Valentine’s Day is on February 14th, and White Day is on March 14th.

Unlike in many Western countries where men and women exchange gifts on February 14th, Valentine’s Day in Japan is primarily a day for women to give chocolates to men. There are different types of chocolates given on this day: “honmei choco” (本命チョコ) is meant for romantic partners, “giri choco” (義理チョコ) is given to colleagues and male friends out of obligation, and sometimes “tomo choco” (友チョコ) is shared among female friends. To read more about this, read our blog here.

Exactly one month later, on March 14th, White Day, men who received chocolates are expected to return the favor with a gift typically valued at two to three times the amount they received. Common gifts on White Day include chocolates, cookies, marshmallows, jewelry, and even plush toys, depending on the nature of the relationship. Usually, reciprocating also means that the man has accepted the woman’s feelings for him, meaning he accepts to become a couple together or start dating!

Valentine’s Day and White Day remain culturally important. They add a structured element to Japanese romantic customs, emphasizing thoughtfulness and reciprocity in relationships.

Dating Sites or Apps in Japan

Online dating in Japan has grown significantly in recent years, with more people turning to dating apps and websites to find relationships. While traditional matchmaking methods like 合コン gokon (group blind dates) and お見合い omiai (arranged meetings for marriage) still exist, dating apps have become a mainstream way to meet potential partners, especially in urban areas.

Regarding using these dating sites or apps in Japan, Japanese users prefer detailed profiles with clear photos and descriptions of hobbies, jobs, and interests, favoring selfies or professional-looking pictures over group photos. Good to note is that many apps nowadays require identity verification to reduce fake accounts. In Japan, messaging your interest tends to start formally (です・ます form) before gradually becoming casual, with users taking time to get to know each other before meeting. If the chat went well, it is about time to meet in person. First dates are usually low-pressure, often at a café, with some preferring group outings first. Most importantly, punctuality and politeness are important, and being too forward can be off-putting.

FAQ

How do I ask someone on a date in Japanese?

デートに行きませんか？ (Dēto ni ikimasen ka?) – “Would you like to go on a date?”
今度、一緒にご飯でもどうですか？ (Kondo, issho ni gohan demo dō desu ka?) – “How about grabbing a meal together sometime?”

How do I ask someone out casually in Japanese, without making it sound too serious?

今度、一緒に遊びに行かない？ (Kondo, issho ni asobi ni ikanai?) – “Want to hang out sometime?”
お茶でもどう？ (Ocha demo dō?) – “How about some tea?” (Casual and light)

What if I want to ask someone out formally or politely in Japanese?

よろしければ、食事に行きませんか？ (Yoroshikereba, shokuji ni ikimasen ka?) – “If you’d like, shall we go for a meal?”
お時間があれば、お茶でもいかがですか？ (Ojikan ga areba, ocha demo ikaga desu ka?) – “If you have time, how about some tea?”

How do I respond if someone asks me out in Japanese?

Yes (Accepting the Date)

いいですね！行きましょう！ (Ii desu ne! Ikimashou!) – “That sounds great! Let’s go!”
楽しみです！ (Tanoshimi desu!) – “I’m looking forward to it!”

No (Declining Politely)

すみません、その日は予定があります。 (Sumimasen, sono hi wa yotei ga arimasu.) – “Sorry, I have plans that day.”
ごめんなさい、ちょっと忙しいです。 (Gomen nasai, chotto isogashii desu.) – “Sorry, I’m a bit busy.”

What are some good date spots to suggest in Japan?

カフェ (Cafe) – Casual and relaxed
公園 (Kōen – Park) – Nice for a walk and conversation
映画館 (Eigakan – Movie theater) – Classic date idea
水族館 (Suizokukan – Aquarium) – Romantic atmosphere
神社・お寺 (Jinja / Otera – Shrine/Temple) – Cultural and scenic

How do I ask someone if they are free on a specific day in Japanese?

〇〇日は空いていますか？ (〇〇-nichi wa aite imasu ka?) – “Are you free on [date]?”
週末は暇ですか？ (Shūmatsu wa hima desu ka?) – “Are you free this weekend?”

How do I confirm the time and place for the date in Japanese?

何時にどこで待ち合わせしますか？ (Nanji ni doko de machiawase shimasu ka?) – “What time and where shall we meet?”
〇〇駅の前でいいですか？ (〇〇 eki no mae de ii desu ka?) – “Is in front of [station] okay?”

Featured image by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Maybe you’ve visited Japan before or had a blast studying abroad, so you decide you want to work in Japan as well. However, the Japanese work culture is quite distinct, especially from Western nations like the US. So, before you start rushing to find a job here, being aware of specific cultural differences may help you adjust or even rethink if working here is right for you.

So, the good news is that Japan is hiring foreigners on a large scale, allowing for vast work opportunities. People from all over the globe are swarming to work here. Last year, the number of foreign workers in Japan amounted to a whopping 2.049 million. The first time in history to exceed 2 million. However, all that glitters may not be gold.

The work culture in Japan is very different from that in Western countries like America. These include employee-employer relationships, dress codes, colleagues’ behavior, and ethics at Japanese workplaces. Essentially, aspects of traditional Japanese culture persevered into the modern working environment, resulting in distinct expectations and norms from the West. As a result, it can be difficult for a foreigner to understand many of these social norms since they are not always visually observable and can be hidden in layers of context.

Want to learn Japanese while working in Japan? You might find it difficult to find classes that fit your schedule and may struggle to fully commit to your studies.

At Coto Academy, we have many courses that allow you to improve your Japanese language ability while maintaining just the right balance between work life and study commitment. Check out our recommended courses here or contact us directly for a free consultation.

Japanese Work Culture: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Work culture in Japan is almost that of legend, or rather infamy, where we hear that there is even a word for working yourself to death, known as karoshi (過労死). The general perception of the Japanese work environment is that it’s rigid, hierarchical, and unforgiving, with poor work-life balance. But how accurate is this perception, and how does that compare with Western work culture such as the U.S.?

Strong Work Commitment And Overwork

If there is a reputation that precedes the Japanese working population, it’s their strong work ethic. Punctuality and commitment to work are of utmost importance to Japanese work culture. Being on time means being at least 15 minutes early, and prioritizing work over family is an expectation. They start their day early and spend hours commuting. Working overtime is often a normal practice. In some sense, Japanese people view the workplace as their family. If a person works for long hours then it is seen as a sign of love toward his or her family.

In America, balancing work and life is given priority. About 72 percent of Americans consider work-life balance while looking for a job. Employees acknowledge that spending quality time with their loved ones is as essential as work. However, overtime and low work-life balance are pervasive issues in the U.S. Several surveys indicate that over 60% of Americans do not have a work-life balance. The surveys often cite working too many hours or working on vacation as reasons for the lack of balance. But how does Japan compare?

Karoshi (過労死)

How serious is the Karoshi issue for work culture in Japan? According to Nippon.com using data from the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW), the mental health issues related to work has increased from last year and the rate of self-harm and those taking their lives saw an increase as well. The number of people suffering from heart and brain health conditions related to work was 216, the highest rate in 4 years.

This is all linked to Japan having one of the highest rates of overtime in the world with very few employees actually taking their paid time off (PTO). You often hear that employees feel guilty to take time off or may even have their PTO requests rejected.

This paints a very grim picture of the current work situation in Japan. However, the nation is making efforts to improve the work culture. One initiative includes a 4 day work week policy that the Japanese government is attempting to encourage.

Workplace Formalities

In Japan, companies follow a quite strict formal dress code. Male employees wear charcoal grey, navy blue, or black suits along with a white shirt and subdued ties throughout the year. While female employees wear similar color blazers along with trousers, skirts, heels, and tied-up ponytails. Standing out or wearing bright colors is a slight no-no at the offices in Japan.

This contrasts with most companies in the west, like America, where there tends to be more flexibility as employees are free to wear casual at work. Mostly, suits are worn whenever there is a business meeting or presentation.

Overall, the work culture in Japan is more formal than in the US. Best practice is to use formal language and show greater respect to your boss and seniors (or senpai). An essential aspect of Japanese culture is treating anyone older, more experienced, or in a higher social position with the utmost respect, as they can impart their knowledge to you.

It was once normal to refrain from leaving the workplace before your boss or seniors, but this is largely being phased out. However, the pressure to not say ‘no’ to your seniors, especially to after-work drinking called nomikai (飲み会), is still rather prevalent. Even when drinking, it is essential to maintain proper manners to your boss and senior colleagues, such as serving them drinks before yourself.

Generalists Over Specialists

The Japanese workplaces focus on the group. During the hiring process, a lot of companies give less priority to skill sets and specialization. Instead, they want to evaluate the cultural fit of the candidates. This is because Japanese companies want employees that can perform well in a group for a good amount of time. They don’t have a firing culture. Employees work at companies for a very long period. In fact, Japan is known for its lifetime employment system.

On the other hand, American companies look for candidates who have specialization as well as the right skills for the job. They follow a system of ‘structural individualism’ wherein the main focus is on the individual’s career. That’s why switching companies for better opportunities or strategic job hopping is a common practice in the US. However, this should not be mistaken for the absence of teamwork. Individual employees do participate in group projects from time to time.

Rigid Top-down Hierarchy in Japanese companies

Employees must report to their seniors, inform the seniors about the latest developments, and consult seniors for work advice. Employees are not free to make decisions. They have to approve everything from their superiors, even the small things. This is called ho-ren-so (ほれんそう), which means “spinach” in the Japanese language but is actually an abbreviation for:

報告 Hokoku (to report)
連絡 Renraku (to inform)
相談 Sodan (to consult)

In contrast to this, American organizations tend to decentralize authority and decision-making. Every employee gets to make his or her decisions that could help the business to grow. Of course, employees go to their seniors for professional advice now and then. Ultimately, this comes back to how Western-style organizations tend to hire specialists who already have the skills, whereas Japanese companies hire generalists that they can train. This is what necessitates the hierarchy in Japanese companies that rely on seniors to train juniors. Since professionals who don’t need to be trained are often hired in Western organizations, they rely less on the company and are more willing to leave. As a result, western companies tend to have a more individualistic atmosphere.

Risk Adversity

People have a conservative mindset in Japanese corporations. Employees avoid taking risks unless they are 100 percent sure about the outcomes. They usually go along with safer old ideas which are already tried and tested.

On the flip side, western businesses tend to take more risks and are much more open to trying something fresh. American employees don’t hesitate as much to take risks even if they are not certain about the results. Americans are more likely to invest in disruptive startups, projects ,and technologies. However, the drawback of taking more risks means that American companies might suffer more losses. Although America is often characterized as a land of risk-takers, many companies are adverse to risk. So, conservative sentiments towards risk are not uncommon in the states either.

Close relationships with colleagues

Work culture in Japan is not just about working on and off. When employees are at work, they only work. However, once the work hours end, employees go out to socialize with one another. They usually hang out at karaoke or restaurants for nomikai, which is a Japanese word for a drinking party. With everyone seated around one big table, co-workers are expected to drink, share meals and interact with each other. Nomikai has all different kinds. It even exists outside the work circle in Japan. Joining such parties is considered socially appropriate. Still, they are completely optional and anyone can skip them if they want.

In America, there are no social norms for socializing or bonding after work. American employees are already familiar with their co-workers due to their informal working environment. Thus, they largely don’t need to set separate times to get to know one another. This gives them more space for their personal life.

Prioritizing harmony over conflict

The Japanese way of communicating is quite indirect. Japanese people are usually accustomed to observing and absorbing knowledge thoroughly. Due to this, asking questions is sometimes considered rude by society. As a result, you will rarely see anyone raising their hands with queries in mind by the end of business meetings or presentations. Even if they didn’t understand anything, people will tend to avoid asking it because of this stigma.

Meanwhile, in America, questions come and go anytime. There are no social barriers and clearing doubts is a normal thing. The American work culture is more straightforward in these aspects.

Picture displaying the daily Japanese work culture in a typical office with employees sitting at their desks — Image from Noahpinion

Common Business Etiquettes in Japanese Work Culture

Social interactions in Japanese work culture can be confusing. Japan has unique business manners and etiquette that differ from western standards. To avoid cultural shock, it’s best if you know them firsthand. In Japan, there are quite a several do’s and don’ts that business professionals are required to keep in mind. Here’s a crisp list of the few most important etiquettes that you need to catch sight of.

1. Bowing to Clients Till The Elevator Door Closes

Whenever you have visitor clients at the office, it is expected to accompany them to the front door. If your office is at a high-rise building then seeing off the visitors to the front door may seem too much. In that case, you should escort visitors to the elevator. Once they get on the elevator, you should bow till the gates close.

2. Removing Coats Before Entering Office

In winter, you will see employees taking off their coats and folding them over their arms before entering the office buildings. They don’t do so inside building hallways because it might disturb other people.

3. Business Card Etiquette

Japanese business culture is very polite and respectful. Whenever there is an exchange of business cards during meetings, they are done gracefully like a ritual. The first person holds the card with both hands while facing the other person. Then he bows while offering the card and the other party also bows the same way and accepts the card.

4. Seat Arrangement Based On Rank

During business conferences or meetings, members are seated as per their position in the company. Leaders or seniors with more expertise get front seats. A similar seating arrangement is used in other places such as colleges, trains, taxis and so on.

5. Customer is the God

You may have heard multiple times how the customer is the ‘king’ in the market. However, in Japan, the customer is not just regarded as the king but as a ‘god’ as well. Employees greet customers with care whenever they come and go. Their happiness is the number one priority of every business. They are handled with proper respect and offending them is out of option.

Fact vs. Fiction of Japanese Work Culture

Work culture in Japan is far from perfect, and there are many common notions across the globe, but how much holds true?

Work Environment and Labor Regulations In Japan

Despite the amount of overtime reported by the nation, labor law is quite strong and protects employees very well. It is for this reason that companies have a difficult time firing people in Japan. Additionally, labor law also takes precedence over any legally binding employee contract, but there are limitations. You should be careful of burakku kigyou (ブラック企業) or black companies which are infamous for trapping employees in exploitative contracts.

If you are having any issues regarding work, Japan has a variety of support services available. One place to contact or visit is FRESC which is a government organization that can assist with employment, unemployment, legal issues, etc., for foreigners living in Japan. They have an office in Shinjuku and usually have staff who can speak English. Hellowork is more available across Japan but generally only has Japanese speaking staff.

Times Are Changing For Work Culture In Japan

Amidst the influx of foreigners coming to work and offset the aging population, Japanese companies have already started embracing the change that comes with them. Aspects of traditional Japanese work culture that is difficult for foreigners to adjust to are shifting. Even the younger Japanese population is driving change in similar ways to foreigners since they are more likely to change companies in their careers and expect greater work-life balance. Japanese companies hiring lots of foreigners tend to be more flexible with PTO, less rigid about hierarchies and do not expect employees to stick around for life.

Although this may be the case with certain Japanese companies, Japan is a nation that likes to preserve traditions and is adverse to change. So, you can expect many companies may still be very conservative in certain expectations. However, as a foreigner, they likely won’t expect you to know every minute detail of proper Japanese manners so I wouldn’t sweat over it.

Most Common Jobs For Foreigners In Japan

The Japanese job market is vast and more open to foreigners than ever before. While many companies do not accept foreign employees, the amount that do is increasing year by year according the MHLW. This is great news for the increasing number foreign job seekers entering the Japanes workforce every year. But most foreigners from the west tend to work in certain industries. We’ll be covering a few positions, but for the full list of popular jobs for foreigners in Japan, head to this article.

Infographic showing employment of American workers in Japan

1. English Teacher

English teaching is the most common form of employment for many foreigners, or rather many foreigners get trapped in English teaching. Most can land a job teaching at cram schools and educational institutions by having a bachelor’s or associate’s degree of any kind. Many roles do not require any teaching certificates, so the barrier to entry is not too high. Based on the graph above, most Americans by far land jobs in the education sector, usually as English Teachers. If you enjoy and have a passion for teaching, Japan is one of the best places for employment. This is because the government is making drastic efforts to improve English literacy, so they are turning to foreigners to help bridge this gap.

2. IT Professional

If you have a background in development, design, data, or IT of any kind, Japan is fertile ground for employment. Currently, there is a huge demand for professionals with IT skills and Japanese abilities are oftentimes not necessary. On average, a tech professional or software engineer usually earns around ¥7.7 million per year.

3. Translator or Interpreter

It’s no surprise that translation or interpreter-related roles are also highly valued, but these roles are rather limited in comparison to the others mentioned. The job of a translator is pretty much versatile in Japan. Translators are required not only for English to Japanese translations but in many other languages as well. The gaming industry is one of the biggest sectors needing translators to overcome the language barrier. A good number of translators also do freelance assignments for brands, publishing houses, etc. The salary of a translator can vary depending on the skill level. Usually, the average translator makes about ¥3 million in a year.

4. Engineer

In the utopia of advanced technology, Japan undoubtedly stands as a key player. From manufacturing world-class automobiles to electronics, there’s so much to this country. It’s thriving and full of prospects. Companies dealing in cars or electronic items regularly have openings for engineers with excellent pay. An average engineer receives a salary of ¥7 million per year. Check out some of the best IT job sites in Japan.

Brush Up on your Business in Japanese

To truly adapt to work culture in Japan, your polite business Japanese must be sharp so you can mesh with your teams. Being able to speak business Japanese and practice proper business etiquette will definitely enhance your hire-ability. The sad truth is that passing certain levels of the JLPT is never enough for this.

To heighten your Japanese abilities, taking up business Japanese courses while working in Japan is very effective. Coto Japanese Academy offers business Japanese courses covering every aspect of business Japanese. If you wish to learn Japanese in Tokyo, check out our various Japanese courses!

Send us an inquiry now!

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FAQ

What are the similarities between workplaces in Japan and America?

Japan and America have a couple of similarities as well. Both countries have very long work weeks. Japanese people are extremely hardworking and working overtime is not something strange to them. There is even an odd phenomenon known as Karoshi where people die due to overwork. Similarly, Americans spend most of their time at work and face similar experiences.

In both countries, employees prefer to take shorter vacations or time off from work. Japanese employees feel guilty when they don’t work. Just like that, most American employees stay devoted to their jobs.

How to overcome cultural differences while working in Japan?

Working in Japan can be an overwhelming experience. The cultural shock is quite strong when you first arrive. But it’s only a matter of time. You need to be patient, and observant, and try your best in meeting the expectations. Make friends because having good companions will help you in your lonesome moments. Keep navigating your way, you will eventually find yourself overcoming the cultural barrier.

Do Japanese companies hesitate to offer jobs to foreigners?

Some Japanese companies hesitate to offer jobs to foreigners. That is primarily because there is a vast difference between Japanese work culture and American or European work culture. They know very well that fitting into the Japanese environment will take time. Thus, Japanese companies prefer to recruit either local candidates or foreigners who are already stationed in Japan.

What are the perks of working in Japan?

There are several mandatory benefits provided to employees in Japan. These includes:

Dietary assistance
Pensions (for old age, disability, and survivors)
Maternity leaves up to 14 weeks
Paid leaves (at least 5 days a year)
Insurance and compensations

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Welcome to the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N2 Exam!

The thought of taking JLPT is stressful, but what about preparing for them? With so many things to learn, it’s easy for anyone to feel completely disorganized.

Want to take your JLPT preparation to the next level? We have in-person and online JLPT courses taught by our experienced Japanese instructors to help you ace your next JLPT exam!

In-person: JLPT Prep Course.
Online: JLPT Prep Course

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about the JLPT N2 Exam (test contents, length, scoring methods, etc.), how to register, how to prepare, what happens on test day, and some resources and lessons we offer at Coto Academy to help you through your studies.

Keep scrolling if you are considering or planning to take the JLPT N2 Exam!

Check out our guides for other JLPT levels as well:

1. About the JLPT
2. About the JLPT N2 Exam
3. How to Prepare
- Mastering Kanji and Vocabulary
- Mastering Grammar
4. Offline/Online Courses Offered at Coto
- Offline Courses (Tokyo/Yokohama)
- Online Courses
5. Join our JLPT Prep Courses
6. How to Register (2021)
7. What Happens on Test Day
Start taking Japanese lessons at Coto and pass the JLPT N2!

1. About the JLPT

What is the JLPT?

Before we get started – what exactly is the JLPT? JLPT stands for Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, also known as 日本語能力試験. As the name suggests, the exam measures and certifies the Japanese proficiency of non-native Japanese speakers and is used by universities and employees inside and outside Japan. It is normally carried out twice a year in Japan and available in certain other countries. JLPT Exams are often taken by Japanese learners who are planning a future in Japan!

What are the different levels of the JLPT?

The JLPT is divided into five levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5. N1 is the most advanced level, and N5 is the most basic.

The N4 and N5 test you on basic Japanese that you can often learn in a classroom environment
The N3 acts as a bridge between N4/N5 and N2/N1
The N2 and N1 test you on a wider spectrum of Japanese knowledge used in various situations in everyday life

Who should take the JLPT? What are the advantages of taking the N2?

Your JLPT scores will be useful if you are looking for a job or planning to pursue education in Japan. JLPT certifications can also be advantageous when immigrating to Japan, as those who have passed the N2 and N1 qualify for preferential treatment.

Additionally, passing the JLPT N2 Exam can be a fitting goal for Japanese learners wanting to test their ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations and in various circumstances to a certain degree.

2. About the JLPT N2 Exam

What does the N2 Exam test on?

The JLPT N2 Exam is an exam for upper-intermediate/advanced-level speakers. The JLPT N2 tests your ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations and various circumstances to a certain degree. This includes having no difficulty in:

Reading materials are written clearly on a variety of topics, such as articles and commentaries in newspapers and magazines, as well as simple critiques and comprehending their contents
Reading written materials on general topics and following their narratives, as well as understanding the intent of the writers
Comprehending orally presented materials such as coherent conversations and news reports, spoken at nearly natural speed in everyday situations as well as in a variety of settings, and following their ideas and comprehending their contents
Understanding the relationships among the people involved and the essential points of the presented materials

How many sections are on the N2 Exam?

It is important to be aware of the structure of the exam to study for it efficiently. The JLPT N2 Exam consists of two main sections. Each section tests you on different aspects of the Japanese language.

Section	Question types
1. Language Knowledge(Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading	– Kanji reading – Orthography – Word formation – Contextually-defined expressions – Paraphrases – Usage – Sentential grammar 1 (selecting grammar form) – Sentential grammar 2 (sentence composition) – Comprehension (short passages) – Comprehension (mid-size passages) – Integrated comprehension – Thematic comprehension (long passages) – Information retrieval
2. Listening	– Task-based comprehension – Comprehension of key points – Comprehension of general outline – Verbal expressions – Quick response – Integrated comprehension

What is and is not covered in the JLPT N2 Exam?

For the above three sections, you must master approximately 6000 vocabulary words and 1000 kanji. Although this may sound like a lot, you should already know around 3700 words and 650 kanji from N3-N5, so you are already halfway there! The vocabulary words and kanji covered in the N2 Exam include basic nouns and verbs from N4 and N5 and more complex terms necessary to understand difficult written materials such as newspapers, magazines, and simple critiques.

Furthermore, you must be familiar with grammar points such as particle usage, formal and casual conjugations of verbs and adjectives for past and present tenses, and sentence combinations. You must know around 200 more grammar points besides what you already know from the N3. Before taking the test, you should be comfortable reading and writing longer passages.

Because the JLPT Exam does not test on speaking, Japanese learners who are not comfortable speaking in Japanese can theoretically still pass, as long as they have mastered the vocabulary, kanji, and grammar covered on the N2 Exam. (However, you must keep in mind that Japanese speaking and conversational abilities are still necessary for life if you are seriously considering a future in Japan!)

How long is the N2 Exam?

You are given different amounts of time for each of the two different test sections.

Section	Time
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading	105 minutes
Listening	50 minutes
Total Time	155 minutes

You are given 155 minutes to complete the JLPT N2 Exam.

What is the scoring for the JLPT N2 like?

Although the N2 Exam contains two sections, the scoring is divided into three.

Section	Range of Scores
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar)	0 – 60
Reading	0 – 60
Listening	0 – 60
Overall Score	0 – 180

In total, your overall score can range from anywhere between 0 to 180.

For the N2 Exam, a passing score is anything above an overall score of 90 points. However, besides meeting the overall score of 95 points, you must also meet sectional pass marks of 19 points in the Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) Section, Reading Section, and Listening Section. This means that even if your overall score is above 90 points if you do not meet the sectional pass marks for all three of the sections, you cannot pass. Thus, balancing your knowledge and avoiding relying on one section for points is important.

For how long should I study to pass the N2?

how many hours does it take to pass jlpt - study hours N2

For students with kanji knowledge, 1475 hours of JLPT study is required. A restricted privileges ATP certificate allows a pilot to serve as a co-pilot until he or she obtains 1,500 hours. – So you can become the co-pilot of an aircraft for this number of hours.

For other students, it takes about 2200 hours. As a reference, credentials for a USCPA (Certified Public Accountant) take 2000 hours. Have fun crunching numbers!

For more information on necessary study hours for all levels of the JLPT, check out this blog article How Many Hours Does it Take to Pass the JLPT – Illustrated Guide.

3. How to Prepare

Mastering Kanji and Vocabulary

As previously mentioned, the JLPT N2 Exam covers around 1000 kanji. (Of course, you do not have to know all of them to pass, but it’s impossible to predict which ones will be on the exam.)

We highly recommend you check out our JLPT N2 Kanji Self-Study Course (¥1,000) to learn the necessary N2 kanji.

This self-study course covers N2 kanji and contains a quiz for each kanji, a downloadable pdf workbook, and a printable cheat sheet to help you through kanji memorization.

Click on the image to check it out!

Additionally, you can check out our JLPT N2 Kanji Writing Workbook (¥1,500).

JLPT N2 Kanji Writing Workbook / Worksheets E-book

This downloadable and printable E-book aims to help you practice writing N2-level kanji and memorize them efficiently.

We have also provided samples of the worksheets free of charge at the below links! These are very useful as they give you an idea of some kanji you will be tested on during the N2 exam. Click on the topic to download.

The best way to master the vocabulary for N2 is to memorize the words along with their kanji. This will also help you retain all the kanji, so the vocabulary and kanji study reinforce each other.

Mastering Grammar

To learn grammar points covered on the N2 Exam, you can check out the below articles on basic Japanese grammar for free:

In addition, our YouTube Channel is also great for learning important N2 grammar points, as well as improving your Japanese listening skills. We offer useful videos on phrases and grammar points commonly featured on the JLPT N2 and include familiar examples to help you get a grasp of how they are often used in daily life.

Here’s an example of our grammar videos:

If you are a person who learns better through videos and audio, check out our JLPT N2 Playlist, which has compiled all of the N2 grammar videos for you.

If you prefer to work with textbooks and worksheets, we recommend another self-study course! Our JLPT N2 Grammar Self-Study Course (¥1,000) is a grammar course that you complete all on your own.

This course includes 149 lessons and 149 quizzes on grammar points that will be featured on the JLPT N2 Exam. You will also receive a link to download our JLPT N2 Grammar PDF Workbook upon purchase.

The JLPT N2 Grammar Workbook can also be purchased independently for ¥1,300.

This workbook includes 124 grammar points you need to pass the JLPT N3. Each grammar point has short explanations in English and in Japanese. The workbook includes practice exercises that you can do on your own!

Although self-studying is a great way to study at your own pace, textbooks, and worksheets may not perfectly prepare you for what’s to come on the JLPT Exam.

We recommend enrolling in offline or online courses at Coto to study for the N2.

4. Offline/Online Courses Offered at Coto

In addition to the resources mentioned above, Coto Academy offers offline and online classes to help you through your studies. (Offline classes are offered at our schools in Tokyo and Yokohama.)

Here is a list of lessons available at the JLPT N2 level. Click on your course of interest to find out more details about its contents, price, and schedule.

Coto Academy provides JLPT prep courses to help you ace your following JLPT exams; check the course information here and learn with us today!

Offline Courses (Tokyo/Yokohama)

Intensive Courses
- Advanced Level 1-2 – an 8-week intensive course in a class of no more than 8 students, designed to train you to understand abstract Japanese content. You will also broaden your conversation to topics of interest and specialized fields and become able to express and defend your point of view. Classes take place every weekday, each lasting 3 hours.
- Advanced Level 3-4-5 – a 12-week advanced intensive course in which you will learn more abstract contents that will allow you to carry on and hold sophisticated conversations. By the end of this course, your grammar and vocabulary will become proficient enough that you will be able to speak in-depth and objectively with native Japanese speakers. This course also meets every weekday, each class lasting 3 hours.
Part-time Lessons
- Natural and Fluent Japanese Communication 2 – the goal of this course is to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations, so you’ll be able to speak about general things in Japanese only.
- Business Japanese – you will learn the etiquette and vernacular of doing business in Japan. The course will teach you basic formal expressions (basic keigo), setting-specific expressions on business situation in Japan.
- Japanese Explanation Training – designed for anyone who can communicate using only Japanese but feels they have problems with detailed explanations. The course will improve your ability to speak about familiar topics in-depth.
- Keigo Training – designed to hone your Keigo Japanese to improve your Japanese language in a professional setting.
Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor in-person and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
JLPT Prep Courses – designed to prepare you for everything you will encounter on the JLPT, in small groups of no more than 8 students. With in-house materials and interactive classroom environment, you will work towards N2 certification alongside your peers.

Online Courses

Private Lessons – matched to our students’ Japanese study experience, comprehension, and needs 1-1 with a professional teacher online. Instead of in small groups, you will meet privately with a professional instructor online via Zoom and receive a lesson plan strictly designed to fit your needs and studying habits. Perfect for those wanting flexible scheduling to tackle their weaknesses in the language proactively.
Group Lessons
- Business Lite Intensive – designed to teach Japanese that is common in the workplace to prepare you for a job in Japan. A group of more than 8 students.
- Business Japanese – dedicated to cover basic formal expressions (basic keigo) and setting-specific expressions in Japanese business scenes.
- Natural and Fluent Japanese 2 – a grammar-focused course encouraging students to acquire a broad spectrum of vocabulary and freely use it in numerous sentence patterns during conversations.
- Japanese Explanation Training – designed for anyone who can communicate using only Japanese, but feel they have problems with detailed explanations. The course will improve your ability to speak about familiar topics in-depth.
- Read and Discuss Current Events – focused on improving the students’ ability to naturally talk about recent news and important topics in Japanese. You will read articles that are in current discussion in Japanese news and actively discuss over topics ranging from politics to environment to economics. Because the N2 includes many newspaper articles and critiques in its reading comprehension section, this course is recommended.
- Advanced Japanese Explanation Training – designed to help each student develop the ability to explain topics using correct Japanese grammar. This course is conversational. You will learn how to talk about a variety of topics – hobbies, experiences, dream house, job, etc. – and strengthen the ability to proactively think in Japanese.
- JLPT N2 Grammar – a year-long course that will prepare you for the JLPT N2 Exam. You will read passages common to the JLPT N2 Exam and learn how to use most of the grammar points covered on the N2.
- JLPT N2 Reading – a 6 month course focusing on the key points of reading comprehension necessary for the JLPT N2 exam.
JLPT N2 Online Prep Lecture – designed for students wanting to study individually with the lesson material while listening to the lecture on the screen. It is an affordable and convenient option for those who are looking for a high-quality seminar-style classroom taught by a professional native. In this lecture, we utilize our in-house exercises and study materials specialized for JLPT preparation. You will be assigned materials each week on Google Classroom.

To sign up for and enroll in classes, visit this page and you will be directed to schedule a free interview!

5. Join our JLPT Prep Courses

Japanese teacher teaching Japanese to the students

For effective studying for the JLPT N2, we highly recommend our JLPT N2 Prep Course! This Japanese language course is available both online and offline and will prepare you to take and successfully pass the JLPT N2 with a mix of in-house materials and hand-selected materials trusted by our instructors. The course will strengthen your vocabulary, kanji, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening skills required to successfully obtain a N2 certification. By taking the JLPT N2 Prep Course, pass the exam and open more opportunities for your life in Japan!

For more information on JLPT Prep Courses, click here.

6. How to Register

Next Test Date: December 1st 2024

Application Period: Until September 12 (Thu), 17:00

Application Method: You must apply from the MyJLPT “JLPT Application” screen after registering with MyJLPT on the JLPT website of Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JESS).

Test Fee: 7,500 yen (consumption tax included)

Payment Methods: Credit card, bank wire transfer (pay-easy), payment at a convenience store

Once registered, you will receive a test voucher around mid-November, indicating your test location and more details about the JLPT Exam.

For more information, visit the JLPT Official Website.

7. What Happens on Test Day

It’s your big test day!

Before heading out to your test center, make sure to bring your test voucher, writing utensils (mechanical pencils are accepted), and maybe some snacks and a watch to help you with time-management.

For examinees in Japan, your test will begin at 12:30, but the test center will be already open from 11:45. We recommend you to head out early to be safe.

Once you arrive at your test venue, you will be asked to show your test voucher to the staff. Examinees are split into different rooms based on their voucher numbers. You will be instructed to enter one of these rooms.

Once you have found and entered your room, you will find the desk that has your number on it. You will receive instructions from staff and begin your exam when it’s time.

The whole exam will take several hours to complete (in the case of the N2 Exam, 155 minutes) and you will get short breaks between each section. When the exam is finished, you will need to wait until all test papers have been collected before you can leave the room.

*Processes at overseas testing sites may differ.

You’ve reached the end of the ultimate guide to passing the JLPT N2 Exam. We hope this was helpful and wish you good luck on your studies!

Start taking Japanese lessons at Coto and pass the JLPT N2!

While you don’t need native-level Japanese proficiency to work in the tech sector in Japan, it is still better to learn a few IT and engineering-related Japanese vocabulary. After all, even if you can get by living in Japan with basic Japanese, niche words may be hard to come across if you’re just casually learning the language.

Now, you can work in Japan and have a fulfilling career with limited Japanese language skills. However, you’ll miss many more attractive opportunities unless you step up the game and show your prospective employers that you’re making an effort to fit in with the company.

One way to do that is to start using Japanese words that software engineers and IT professionals know. Not only will this give a good impression to your managers, but it’ll also make communicating with your coworkers feel like a breeze.

Because of their niche usage, these terms may be difficult to understand if you’re trying to learn Japanese. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some terms that you’re likely to encounter in an IT job!

Let’s turn your Japanese language goals into reality — contact us today to get started!

Computer Vocabulary

This covers words and phrases related to computers. Even if you’re not an engineer or someone who works in the tech sector, it’s a good idea to take a look at them. Using a computer is something general, so even if you don’t use them as much as a full-stack developer in Japan, they are probably still worth remembering.

For a visual infographic, head to our guide on Japanese computer vocabulary.

	Kanji	Kana	English
1.	–	プログラム	(Computer) Program
2.	–	アプリ	App
3.	–	ブラウザ	Browser
4.	–	コンピュータ	Computer
5.	変換	へんかん	Convert
6.	–	データ	Data
7.	–	デスクトップ	Desktop
8.	機器/デバイス	きき/デバイス	Device
9.	–	メール	Email
10.	拡張子	かくちょうし	File extension
11.	関数	かんすう	Function
12.	–	ハードドライブ	Hard Drive
13.	–	ハードウエア	Hardware
14.	入力	にゅうりょく	Input, to fill in
15.	–	インターネット	Internet
16.	–	IPアドレス	IP Address
17.	–	キーボード	Keyboard
18.	–	ラップトップ	Laptop
19.	解説書	かいせつしょ	Manual
20.	–	モニター	Monitor
21.	–	マウス	Mouse
22.	出力	しゅつりょく	Output
23.	–	プリンター	Printer
24.	再起動	さいきどう	Restart
25.	(上書き) 保存	(うわがき) ほぞん	Save
26.	画面	がめん	Screen
27.	–	サーバー	Server
28.	設定	せってい	Settings
29.	スペース/空白	スペース/くうはく	Space
30.	起動	きどう	Startup
31.	技術	ぎじゅつ	Technology
32.	端末	たんまつ	Terminal
33.	添付	てんぷ	To attach
34.	圧縮	あっしゅく	To compress
35.	接続	せつぞく	To connect
36.	–	コピペ	To copy and paste
37.	切り取る	きりとる	To cut
38.	書き出す	かきだす	To export
39.	挿入	そうにゅう	To insert
40.	貼り付ける	はりつける	To paste
41.	印刷	いんさつ	To print out
42.	共有	きょうゆう	To share
43.	起動	きどう	To startup
44.	同期	どうき	To synchronize
45.	–	タッチパッド	Touchpad
	–	ウェブサイト	Website

Programming Vocabulary

This covers some words and phrases related to programming. If you’re a developer, engineer, or even a data scientist, you might want to study the Japanese vocabulary.

The good news is that most Japanese words related to tech, IT, and engineering are borrowed from English and written in katakana. That means you don’t have to go all the way remembering a whole new set of words and kanji. Chances are if you turn a tech term into a loanword, your Japanese coworkers will be able to understand it either way.

	Kanji	Kana	English
46.	追加	ついか	Add
47.	引数	ひきすう	Argument, parameter
48.	配列	はいれつ	Array
49.	人工知能	じんこうちのう	Artificial intelligence, AI
50.	非同期	ひどうき	Asynchronous
51.	–	バックエンド	Backend
52.	ベータ版	ばん	Beta version
53.	–	バイナリー	Binary
54.	二進数	にしんすう	Binary number
55.	–	ビット	Bit
56.	–	ブール	Boolean
57.	真偽値/真理値	しんぎち/しんりち	Boolean value
58.	–	バグ	Bug
59.	–	ビルド	Build (noun)
60.	–	コール	Call
61.	文字	もじ	Character
62.	–	クラス	Class
63.	–	コードレビュー	Code Review
64.	–	コマンドライン	Command Line
65.	–	コンパイルする	Compile
66.	作成	さくせい	Compose/create
67.	条件つき	条件つき	Conditional
68.	定数	定数	Constant
69.	データ構造	データこうぞう	Data Structure
70.	データ種類	データしゅるい	Data Type
71.	–	データベース	Database
72.	–	デバッグ	Debug
73.	–	デバッグする	Debugging
74.	宣言	せんげん	Declaration
75.	復号	ふくごう	Decryption
76.	定義	ていぎ	Define
77.	納品	のうひん	Delivery
78.	配備	はいび	Deploy
79.	設計	せっけい	Design/architecture
80.	開発者	かいはつしゃ	Developer
81.	開発	かいはつ	Development
82.	開発環境	かいはつかんきょう	Development environment
83.	動的	どうてき	Dynamic
84.	暗号化	あんごうか	Encryption
85.	–	エラー	Error
86.	–	イベント	Event
87.	–	イベントハンドラー	Event Handler
88.	例外	れいがい	Exception
89.	–	フレームワーク	Framework
90.	–	フロントエンド	Front End
91.	–	フルスタック	Full Stack
92.	機能	きのう	Function
93.	関数	かんすう	Function
94.	–	HTTPリクエスト	HTTP Request
95.	実装	じっそう	Implementation
96.	入力	入力	Input
97.	整数 (型)	せいすう (がた)	Integer (type)
98.	–	ループ	Loop
99.	機械学習	きかいがくしゅう	Machine Learning
100.	保守	ほしゅ	Maintenance
101.	管理	かんり	Manage
102.	–	ニューラルネットワーク	Neural Network
103.	–	ヌル	Null
104.	–	オブジェクト	Object
105.	オブジェクト指向	オブジェクトしこう	Object-oriented
106.	運用	うんよう	Operation
107.	演算子	えんざんし	Operator
108.	–	アウトプット	Output
109.	並列処理	へいれつしょり	Parallel processing
110.	–	パラメータ	Parameter
111.	プロセス/処理	プロセス/しょり	Process
112.	–	プログラミング	Programming
113.	コンピューター言語	コンピューターげんご	Programming language
114.	擬似乱数	ぎじらんすう	Pseudo-random number
115.	乱数	らんすう	Random number
116.	冗長性	じょうちょうせい	Redundancy
117.	実行	じっこう	Run/execute
118.	–	セキュリティー	Security
119.	–	ソフトウェア	Software
120.	–	ソース	Source
121.	仕様	しよう	Specification
122.	–	スプリント	Sprint
123.	–	ステートメント	Statement
124.	静的	せいてき	Static
125.	停止	ていし	Stop
126.	文字列	もじれつ	String
127.	構造	こうぞう	Structure
128.	–	タグ	Tag
129.	–	テスト	Test
130.	認証	にんしょう	To authenticate
131.	開発	かいはつ	To develop
132.	処理	しょり	To process (information)
133.	–	トークン	Token
135.	体験版	たいけんばん	Trial version
136.	値	あたい	Value
137.	変数	へんすう	Variable
138.	仮想	かそう	Virtual
139.	脆弱性	ぜいじゃくせい	Vulnerability

Web Vocabulary

This covers some words or phrases that will come up in regard to websites and web design.

	Kanji	Kana	English
140.	背景	はいけい	Background
141.	–	ぶろっく	Block
142.	–	ぼーだー	Border
143.	直帰率	ちょっきりつ	Bounce rate
144.	–	ぼっくす	Box
145.	パンくず	パンくず	Breadcrumbs
146.	–	せる	Cell
147.	円	えん	Circle
148.	列	れつ	Column
149.	構成	こうせい	Composition
150.	依存性	いぞんせい	Dependency
151.	修正	しゅうせい	Edit
152.	離脱率	りだつりつ	Exit rate
153.	外部リンク	がいぶりんく	External link
154.	–	ふぁいる	File
155.	拡張子	かくちょうし	File extension
156.	–	ふぉんと	Font
157.	–	ふったー	Footer
158.	形式	けいしき	Format
159.	–	へっだー	Header
160.	見出し	みだし	Heading
161.	高さ	たかさ	Height
162.	内部リンク	ないぶりんく	Internal link
163.	下層	かそう	Lower level
164.	–	まーじん	Margin
165.	–	ねっとわーく	Network
166.	自然検索	しぜんけんさく	Organic search
167.	–	ぱでぅんぐ	Padding
168.	–	ぴくせる	Pixel
169.	順位	じゅんい	Position
170.	長方形	ちょうほうけい	Rectangle
171.	行	くだり	Row
172.	検索結果画面	けんさくけっかがめん	SERP (search engine results page)
173.	正方形	せいほうけい	Square
174.	–	すたいる	Style
175.	適用	てきよう	To assign
176.	崩れる	くずれる	To break down, to fall apart
177.	実装	じっそう	To implement
178.	流し込む	ながしこむ	To insert
179.	運用	うんよう	To run, to maintain
180.	利用者	りようしゃ	User
181.	訪問	ほうもん	Visit, session
182.	アクセス解析	あくせすかいせき	Web analytics
183.	余白	よはく	White space
184.	幅	はば	Width

Day-to-day Vocabulary

This covers some words and phrases you’ll use regularly in the office.

	Kanji	Kana	English
185.	見積もり	みつもり	An estimate
186.	条件	じょうけん	Condition
187.	要求	ようきゅう	Demand, request
188.	機器	きき	Equipment
189.	費用	ひよう	Expense
190.	改善	かいぜん	Improvement
191.	情報	じょうほう	Information
192.	保守	ほしゅ	Maintenance, maintain
193.	運用	うにょう	Operations
194.	残業	ざんぎょう	Overtime
195.	担当者	たんとうしゃ	Person in charge of something
196.	入門	にゅうもん	Primer
197.	処理	しょり	Process
198.	–	ぷろじぇくと	Project
199.	企画書	きかくしょ	Project plan document
200.	企画	きかく	Project, plan, planning

And that’s the list! We hope this helps you in your current or future jobs!

Check out one of our previous posts for more vocabulary like this!

Source: Repository by Mercari, Inc. (Engineer vocabulary list) licensed under “CC BY 4.0”

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Do you ever wish you could explore Japan while getting paid? You can do that through different visas! Staying and living in Japan requires a Visa, but not every visa is one size fits all. Each one has different pros and cons. The main differences are the limits on how much you can work, how long you can stay in the country, and what job you can do. Look at the most popular work visas to see what works best for you!

Ready to take the next step? Submit your inquiry and our team will respond promptly.

Student Visa

The Student Visa is for people enrolled in a full-time academic program at a Japanese institution. This could be a language school, university, etc. People on a student visa are only eligible to work a maximum of 28 hours a week on average during active semesters. While they can work full-time during holidays, student visa holders can only work jobs that do not interfere with their studies. Jobs that generally do not interfere with studies in Japan are part-time jobs; the service industry and retail work are popular among students. While the student visa is not ideal for making a lot of money in Japan, it is one of the longest-lasting visas, depending on how long you are in school.

Working Holiday Visa

The Working Holiday Visa is for people looking to travel and support their travel expenses while on their trip. This visa is only extended to younger people, and the maximum age for this visa in Japan is 30 years. This visa lasts for a year at most; however, depending on your nationality, there is a possibility for an extension beyond that. Working Holiday Visa jobs are part-time, allowing people to work up to 48 hours per week anywhere! That being said, this visa prioritizes the “Holiday” portion. While you can work with this visa, the focus is mainly on traveling and experiencing the culture of Japan!

Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa is a new addition to Japan’s working visa selection, which only came into effect in March of 2024! This visa is unique because it is specifically for remote workers for companies outside of Japan. This visa prohibits work for Japanese companies or freelance work within Japan, so your working hours depend on your foreign home company. This visa lasts 6 months, and given its recent introduction, there are no possibilities for an extension. If you want a more in-depth look at this visa, check out The Ultimate Guide.

Visa Logistics

All visas require a valid passport, but depending on the visa you’re applying for, there are some differences in applications after that point!

Applying for a Student Visa

While you can apply for a Student Visa independently, researching schools, compiling everything, and sending all your documents or information can sometimes be confusing or stressful. Using a free program like Coto School Finder can help you with translations and double-checking your documents!

Applying for a Work/Holiday Visa

To get a Working Holiday Visa your first step is to check the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs as different countries have different Visa qualifications. Generally, you will need a return plane ticket, proof of funds, and meeting the age requirements. You can apply officially through your country’s embassy or consulate general if you meet all the qualifications.

List of countries with visa qualifications — Photo By Digital Nomad Asia

Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa

For a Digital Nomad Visa, you must already be employed by a non-Japanese company. You again need to check if your home country is applicable (see above). If your country is connected to the program, you are ready to move on to the next items! You will need an annual income of at least 10 million JPY, health insurance with coverage of at least 10 million JPY, and a written itinerary of what you plan to do during your visit that you can fill out here.

Picking Your Job

It’s always smart to start a job search before you need it but once your application for the Student Visa or Work Holiday Visa gets approved it is time to start the hunt officially!

General Job Requirements

Getting a job, like everywhere, depends on the individual and the company. However, there are some general things that you will need to work in Japan. You will need to be proficient in Japanese (JLPT N2 at least), have a college degree or sufficient experience in the field, and have a CV or resume in English and Japanese. Need some help? Here is how to make a Japanese resume and get some tips for interviews!

Where to look

Since we live in the internet age, there are many foreigner-friendly job posting websites. Put in what you’re looking for or experience, and start your hunt!

Looking for a comprehensive guide to navigating the part-time job market? Check out this blog

Some websites to start with Indeed, LinkedIn, Daijob, Gaijinpot

Stay Connected

One of the best things about working in Japan is the versatility of workspaces for hybrid and remote workers. Around Japan, there are different coworking spaces to help you connect to your job and other working professionals in the area!

Diagonal Run

Address: Chuo-Ku
Hours: 9:00-20:00 (weekdays only)
Price: 660 yen for 1 hour or 18,700 yen per month

Case

Address: Shinjuku
Hours: 10:00-18:00
Price: 1,000 yen for 1-2 hours or 27,500 yen per month

Mov

Address: Shibuya
Hours: 8:50-22:00
Price: Open Lounge: 1,100 yen per hour or 23,400 per month

Regus

Address: 30+ locations across Tokyo!
Hours: Location Dependent
Price: Location Dependent, 27,000 yen to 106,500 per month

Phrases That Might Be Useful…

私はリモートで仕事をしています。Watashi wa rimōto de shigoto o shite imasu. – I work remotely.
私は海外の会社で働いています。 Watashi wa kaigai no kaisha de hataraite imasu. – I work for a company overseas.
インターネットが使える場所を探しているんだ。 Intānetto ga tsukaeru basho o sagashite iru nda. I’m looking for a place with internet access.
短期リースは可能ですか？Tanki rīsu wa kanōdesu ka? Is a short-term lease possible?

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Remember the aesthetic and feel Initial D gave us? The late-night glow, iconic sound design, and tuned AE86, aka Hachiroku (八六) ignited a passion for fans worldwide. It captured the essence of a subculture in Japan: dedication to perfection and the adrenaline rush of pushing your car to the limits. Luckily this wasn’t just fantasy; it was a glimpse into reality – the underground car scene in Japan. Here customized cars and passionate individuals meet at hidden locations to showcase their work and converse with like-minded people.

The JDM Scene

To be part of the JDM scene, you must look beyond shiny dealerships and polished cars. First, JDM stands for “Japanese Domestic Market,” but it is so much more than just cars sold in Japan. It’s a scene full of people who love customizing their cars uniquely and showing them off to other enthusiasts. These cars are often lowered close to the ground, with flashy paint jobs and engines that sound like they could take off.

But in the end, this is not what it’s all about. JDM is about the hard work and creativity that it takes to create these one-of-a-kind cars. It’s a place where people who love cars can connect, share their passion, and talk about the (sometimes crazy) things they’ve done to their cars.

How to get in

Finding a way into this scene can be very hard, though. These meet-ups thrive on a certain level of secrecy, creating a sense of exclusivity for those already a part of the group. But don’t worry; we’ve got some tips to navigate the world of Japan’s JDM underground scene and experience the thrill firsthand.

The Secrecy Advantage

It’s important to remember that underground JDM meets are not inherently illegal. They’re simply gatherings that take place outside of the typical, organized car show setting. This secrecy helps them maintain a unique atmosphere and sense of community. However, these meet-ups often operate on a “members only” mentality to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, relying on word-of-mouth recommendations or private chats to spread the news.

Unlocking the Doors

Mastering a few key phrases can be your golden ticket.
Start by learning カーミーティングがありますか Kāmītinguga arimasu ka – “Are there any car meets happening?” This simple question, with a smile and genuine interest, could unlock doors you never knew existed. Social media can also be a valuable tool. Follow local car clubs on platforms like Instagram or search for terms like 車 kuruma – “car” and 集まり atsumari – “gathering” to see what pops up.

Famous Spots

Although most meetup spots are a secret, a few famous ones have become somewhat of an open secret. The Daikoku Parking Area in Yokohama is a well-known hangout for car enthusiasts. The best time to go there is usually during the summer at night. The UDX carpark in Akihabara is a large parking garage that often has interesting cars parked there, attracting car enthusiasts who want to check them out. But remember, these places might not offer the same authentic experience as smaller ones.

At a meetup

Let’s imagine we were able to attend one of these secret meetups. Like any social gathering, there are unspoken rules that everyone should follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Admire, don’t touch

These cars took blood, sweat, and tears to build, so admire them from afar. A simple すげぇ Sugee! – “Wow” to show your enthusiasm is enough. You could also use phrases like:

オーバーフェンダーがかっこいいですね Ōbāfendā ga kakkoii desu ne! – This compliments the owner’s “over fenders,” a popular wide-body modification.
ホイールセットがバッチシ決まってますね Horīrusetto ga bacchi shi kimeteimasu ne! – This praises their “wheelset,” a key element of any JDM build.

エンジンルームを見せて頂けませんか Enjin rūmu wo misete itadakemasen ka? – This politely asks if you can see the owner’s “engine room,” which is a huge honor at a JDM meet. Use this sparingly and only if the owner seems very welcoming!

Be mindful of noise

These meets often occur in public spaces, so be mindful of noise levels. Revving your engine excessively or playing loud music can disrupt nearby residents and attract unwanted attention.

Embrace the learning

These meets are a treasure trove of JDM knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the different styles and modifications. You might even hear some new terms being thrown around!

What does JDM stand for?

JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market. It refers to vehicles and car parts that are manufactured specifically for use in Japan, and not intended for export.

Why are JDM cars so popular internationally?

JDM cars are admired for their performance, reliability, and unique design. Models like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, and Mazda RX-7 gained legendary status thanks to motorsport and popular culture.

Can I legally import a JDM car into my country?

It depends on your country’s import laws. For example, in the U.S., JDM cars must be at least 25 years old to be legally imported without extensive modifications.

Are all Japanese cars considered JDM?

No. Only cars that are built for and sold in the Japanese market are considered JDM. Japanese cars exported to other markets may have different specs and features.

Where can I see or join the JDM car scene in Japan?

Popular spots include Daikoku Parking Area in Yokohama, Tatsumi PA, and Kanjo Loop in Osaka. These locations often host late-night meets and are iconic in JDM culture.

How can I learn more or get involved in the JDM community?

Joining online forums, attending car meets, or visiting Japan during automotive events like Tokyo Auto Salon can be great ways to connect with the JDM world.

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Japan is a country full of culture, history, and natural beauty. The allure of Japan is undeniable. Yet, understanding the language and culture is key to immersing oneself in the Japanese way of life. This is where the concept of “arubaito” (アルバイト), or part-time work, comes into play, offering travelers a unique gateway into the heart of Japanese society. This blog will discuss things you need to know regarding part-time jobs in Japan.

Introduction to Arubaito

“Arubaito” offers a fascinating insight into the Japanese work ethic and social norms. Originating from the German word “Arbeit” (work), it signifies part-time employment that many Japanese engage in. For travelers, taking up an “arubaito” is not just about earning extra yen; it’s an unparalleled opportunity to live as the locals do, understand workplace etiquette, and improve your Japanese through real-life practice.

How to Find Arubaito Positions

Finding an “arubaito” can be as simple as checking local job boards and websites or even inquiring at schools or universities for those on a student visa. Jobs range from serving in a café, assisting in retail, and teaching English. However, having a conversational level of Japanese for most of these positions is crucial, highlighting the importance of learning the language.

For those interested in finding “arubaito” positions in Japan, several websites are excellent resources to start your search. Here’s a list of platforms where you can find part-time job listings, ranging from teaching positions to service industry roles:

Indeed Japan – The Japanese branch of the global job search engine Indeed also lists part-time jobs in Japan. It aggregates listings from various sources, offering a broad spectrum of opportunities.
LinkedIn – The most popular platform for business-minded people and companies. Businesses often post job offerings or connect potential candidates through direct messages and more.
Townwork (タウンワーク) – One of the most popular job listing sites in Japan, Townwork covers a wide range of part-time job opportunities across various industries. It’s user-friendly and offers detailed job descriptions, including work hours, pay, and requirements.
Baitoru (バイトル) – Baitoru is another leading job search portal specializing in part-time and temporary positions. It features an intuitive interface and allows users to search for jobs based on location, industry, and job type.
FromA Navi (フロム・エーナビ) – FromA Navi offers a comprehensive database of part-time job listings throughout Japan. It includes filters to narrow down search results according to specific criteria, making it easier to find suitable “arubaito”/part-time positions.
GaijinPot Jobs – Specifically tailored for foreigners living in Japan, GaijinPot Jobs includes listings for part-time jobs that may not require high levels of Japanese proficiency. It’s an excellent resource for English-speaking job seekers.
Daijob – While Daijob is mainly known for full-time career opportunities, it also lists part-time jobs suitable for bilingual or non-Japanese speakers, focusing on positions that require foreign language skills.
Hello Work – Hello Work is a government-operated employment service center with offices all over Japan. They offer job consultation and listings, including part-time jobs. While navigating their services might require some Japanese proficiency, they provide valuable support for job seekers.

Before applying for jobs, ensure you understand the visa requirements and restrictions for working in Japan as a foreigner. Some visas may not permit employment, or there may be restrictions on the number of hours you can work. It’s also beneficial to have your resume and cover letter ready in both English and Japanese to increase your chances of securing a position.

Here is a blog that guides you on how to write a resume and cover letter and do a job interview in Japanese:

These websites are a great starting point for finding “arubaito” in Japan. Remember, patience and persistence are key, as well as a willingness to immerse yourself in the Japanese language and culture.

Legal Considerations

Before embarking on your “arubaito” journey, you must understand the visa requirements and ensure you can legally work. Additionally, immersing yourself in the Japanese work culture demands understanding its nuances, from the paramount importance of punctuality to the respectful treatment of colleagues and superiors.

To legally work in Japan, including part-time jobs or “arubaito,” having the appropriate work permit or visa is crucial. Japan has specific visa categories for different employment and activities within the country. Here’s a general guide on how to get a work permit in Japan, tailored for travelers or foreigners looking to engage in part-time work:

1. Understand the Types of Work Eligible Visas

Working Holiday Visa: For young people from certain countries, offering the chance to travel and work.
Student Visa: Allows part-time work up to 28 hours per week with a permit from the immigration office.
Specified Skills Visa: For individuals with certain expertise or skills in industries in which Japan has labor shortages.
Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa: For professional employment, which may allow for part-time work in related fields.

2. Secure a Job Offer (Full-Time)

Before applying for a work visa, you typically need a job offer from a Japanese employer. For part-time work, this might be less formal than for full-time positions, but having employment lined up is crucial.

3. Gather Required Documentation

The specific documents required can vary depending on the visa type, but generally include:

Passport
Visa application form
Photograph
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – obtained by the employer in Japan
Job offer letter or statement from the employer

4. Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

The COE is issued by the Japanese Immigration Services and is essential for applying for a visa. Your employer in Japan will need to apply for the COE on your behalf by submitting the required documentation to the nearest immigration bureau in Japan.

5. Apply for the Visa

Once you have the COE, you can apply for your visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. Submit the completed application form, your passport, the COE, and any other required documents.

6. Entry into Japan

After receiving your visa, you can enter Japan. Depending on your visa type, you may need to perform additional registrations with local government offices or the immigration bureau. Check this for more information on Kuyakusho: A Survival Guide for Foreigners in Japan.

7. Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted

Suppose you are in Japan on a non-working visa, such as a student visa. In that case, you must apply for “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted” at an immigration office to take up part-time work legally.

Cultural and Legal Considerations

Understand and respect Japanese work culture: Punctuality, diligence, and respect are highly valued.
Stay informed about legal working hours: Students are typically allowed to work up to 28 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.
Keep your visa status and work permit updated: Ensure your employment activities are always within the legal boundaries of your visa or work permit conditions.

Navigating the process of obtaining the right to work in Japan can seem daunting. Still, it can be straightforward with the right preparation and understanding of the legal requirements. Always check the latest information from official sources or consult with immigration specialists to ensure compliance with Japanese law.

Before you go!

Have you ever considered an “arubaito” in Japan, or are you curious about learning Japanese to enhance your travels? Share your thoughts and experiences on our social media (Instagram and Linkedin).

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Can I Really Work in Japan Without Knowing Any Japanese?

English-speaking Jobs in Japan With No Japanese Required

1. Recruiter and Consultant Job in Japan

2. Real Estate Jobs in Japan

3. English Teaching Jobs in Japan

1. ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)

2. Eikaiwa Teacher

3. Private school or university teacher

4. IT and Tech Engineer Jobs in Japan

5. Hospitality Jobs in Japan

6. Customer Service Positions in Japan

7. Graphic, Product or Creative Designer Career in Japan

8. Study Abroad Staff in Japan

Where to Find Jobs in Japan (With Low Japanese Requirement)

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Click here to get the full N2 Kanji writing workbook – Digital Download

What is the JLPT?

What are the JLPT levels?

What is the structure of JLPT?

Test duration by level

JLPT section breakdown

Passing score for JLPT

1. Overall score requirement

2. Minimum sectional score

When and where can you take the JLPT?

How many hours does it take to study for JLPT?

How to study for the JLPT?

Best JLPT textbooks

How to register for the JLPT

How to find your test results

Tips for taking the test

1. Bring an analog watch

2. Pack extra supplies

3. Answer every question

4. Arrive early

Plan to take the JLPT? Join a JLPT prep Course at Coto Academy!

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What is the JLPT?

When is the JLPT held?

Where can I take the JLPT?

How much does the JLPT cost?

What is the passing score for the JLPT?

Can I take the JLPT multiple times?

Can I pass JLPT N5 in 3 months?

How to say “do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend” in Japanese?

How to say “wanna go out with me?” in Japanese?

Another word for dating in Japanese

Dating Culture in Japan – Valentine’s Day and White Day

Dating Sites or Apps in Japan

Most Popular Dating Sites in Japan

FAQ

How do I ask someone on a date in Japanese?

How do I ask someone out casually in Japanese, without making it sound too serious?

What if I want to ask someone out formally or politely in Japanese?

How do I respond if someone asks me out in Japanese?

What are some good date spots to suggest in Japan?

How do I ask someone if they are free on a specific day in Japanese?

How do I confirm the time and place for the date in Japanese?

Japanese Work Culture: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Strong Work Commitment And Overwork

Karoshi (過労死)

Workplace Formalities

Generalists Over Specialists

Rigid Top-down Hierarchy in Japanese companies

Risk Adversity

Close relationships with colleagues

Prioritizing harmony over conflict

Common Business Etiquettes in Japanese Work Culture

1. Bowing to Clients Till The Elevator Door Closes

2. Removing Coats Before Entering Office

3. Business Card Etiquette

4. Seat Arrangement Based On Rank

5. Customer is the God

Fact vs. Fiction of Japanese Work Culture

Work Environment and Labor Regulations In Japan

Times Are Changing For Work Culture In Japan

Most Common Jobs For Foreigners In Japan

1. English Teacher

2. IT Professional

3. Translator or Interpreter