The Land of the Rising Sun is a prime destination for us fresh graduates seeking a unique cultural and career experience. Whether you're drawn by its cutting-edge technology, deep and vast culture, or competitive salaries, securing a job in Japan requires more than just doing well in tests and answering questions in an interview. To succeed, a thoughtful approach rooted in clarity, commitment, and communication is needed.

0. Where do I submit applications to find work in Japan?

Let's start with step zero : How do I even find work opportunities in Japan?

The most abundant and familiar resource to look for work in Japan is through the ITB Career Center website. The job listings on this website are tailored specifically for new engineering graduates, and have a better chance of having long-standing ITB alumnis working within the companies. Alternatively, you can also look out for career opportunities in Japan through various groups such as M-Opportunity, or even just word of mouth from friends, which broadens your horizons to kickstarting your career in Japan. Be sure to verify that these are from trusted sources to ensure your transition to Japan's professional industry is without a hitch.

1. "Why Japan?" : Affirm Your Commitment and Show Genuine Enthusiasm

Japanese employers deeply value motivation and sincerity. It’s not enough to say you want to work in Japan, you need to show it. Whether in your cover letter, interviews, or casual conversations, clearly express what excites you about living and working not only in Japan, but also within the company.

Be specific. Is it the collaborative team dynamics? The opportunity to immerse yourself in a different way of thinking? What about the company values and its products? Why do you like Japan in the first place, and is that reason enough to withstand a hard transition into working in an entirely different country?

Demonstrating that you've done your research and understand the work culture, such as long-term dedication, harmony in the workplace, or senpai-kouhai dynamics goes a very long way.

2. "Familiarity Breeds Affection" : Invest Seriously in Learning Japanese

In most cases, fluency isn't expected - You're not a native-born Japanese after all. Nevertheless, committing to learning the language is essential if you want long-term success in Japan. While the advent of technology eases language barrier difficulties, do bear in mind that you will most probably work and live in a mostly Japanese environment, sometimes handling sensitive and/or technical informations/concepts you can't easily translate.

Language isn't just about communication—it's also your gateway into the culture, workplace nuances, and forming meaningful relationships. Start early. Even basic conversational skills (around JLPT N5 or N4 level) can help you navigate daily life, show respect, and make a stronger impression in interviews. Speaking from personal experience, Japanese interviewers' demeanor changes greatly to a more welcoming tone when you can speak just a little bit of Japanese even when just introducing yourself. A simple 「〇〇と申します」(〇〇 to moushimasu) or 「どうぞよろしくお願いいたします」(douzo yoroshiku onegaiitashimasu) goes a long way during interviews.

Learning Japanese also signals that you see Japan not just as a job location, but as a place you genuinely want to integrate into. That mindset can set you apart from others.

3. "Measure Twice, Cut Once" : Be Absolutely Sure Before You Leap

Moving to Japan for work is a significant life change which cannot be overstated, coupled with the fact that Japanese employers tend to prefer those that want to commit long term for work (think 5 years+). Before making the decision, take time to reflect honestly on your motivations. Are you ready to adapt to a different work culture, language, and social expectations? Can you thrive in a more hierarchical environment where subtle communication sometimes carries more weight than direct speech? Are you willing to part long-term with loved ones and close friends and start anew? It might be scary, but there’s no other feeling to describe setting foot and living in a country as beautiful as Japan.

Interviewers will ask your resolve again and again during interviews, and you must answer as honest as you are with yourself. Make sure that every checklist that you have regarding working in Japan is checked. Consult your family, your advisors, your friends, or even reach out to alumnis who have begun their career in Japan to seek advice.

May we wish you a long, successful career!

健闘を祈る!