Job Options When You Move To Japan

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses various ways to live in Japan, whether short-term or long-term. For short-term stays, teaching English is suggested, although it's not financially lucrative. For those planning to live long-term, working in the booming tourist industry is a viable option, with many jobs in hotels, restaurants, and resorts. The speaker also highlights opportunities for entrepreneurs through startup visas. To succeed in Japan, it's essential to learn the language and understand the local business culture. Overall, the video emphasizes the growing demand for workers and the advantages of living in Japan.

Takeaways

• 😀 Teaching English in Japan is a viable short-term option for those wanting to live there for 1-2 years, although the pay is not high and will only cover basic expenses.
• 😀 Companies in Japan often sponsor visas for English teachers, making the visa process easier and reducing personal administrative effort.
• 😀 Japan’s tourism industry is booming, with a sharp increase in the number of tourists and their spending, creating more job opportunities in various sectors like hotels and restaurants.
• 😀 The tourism boom has led to an expansion of jobs in hospitality, including hotel staff, restaurant workers, and ski instructors, providing opportunities for those with relevant experience.
• 😀 Compared to teaching English, the tourism industry presents a better chance for long-term employment in Japan, as it is growing rapidly and requires a multilingual workforce.
• 😀 If you're planning to start a business in Japan, the government offers startup visas, which allow foreigners to establish their businesses with some initial requirements.
• 😀 To succeed in the Japanese business market, it’s crucial to study the language and understand local culture, especially when running a business that involves dealing with customers and official paperwork.
• 😀 Thorough research is necessary when deciding what type of business to open in Japan, such as understanding local food preferences and market demands.
• 😀 In Japan, running a restaurant may require you to cater to specific tastes—American-style diners, for example, may work well in urban areas but not in smaller towns.
• 😀 Starting a business in Japan may require an initial investment of approximately 5 million yen and the ability to hire at least two employees, which are conditions for obtaining a business visa.

Q & A

What is one of the easiest ways to live in Japan for a short period of time?

Teaching English is considered one of the easiest ways to live in Japan for a year or two. While it may not be highly lucrative, it offers a chance to experience life in Japan and allows companies to sponsor your visa.

How does the tourism industry contribute to Japan's economy?

In 2024, tourists spent an estimated $52 billion in Japan, indicating the significant role the tourism industry plays. This influx of money has led to an increase in job opportunities, particularly in the hotel and restaurant sectors.

What job opportunities are available for foreigners in Japan's tourism sector?

Foreigners can find job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related sectors, especially in places that cater to international tourists. Jobs may include hotel staff, cleaning, restaurant service, and roles requiring multilingual abilities.

Why might teaching English no longer be as lucrative as it once was in Japan?

Teaching English used to be a popular job in Japan, but the demand and pay have diminished over the years, with some people now earning as little as $11 an hour. The shift in the market and new job opportunities in tourism have made it less attractive.

How has the number of tourists in Japan changed in recent years?

Tourism in Japan has surged dramatically. In 2019, Japan received 32 million tourists, and in 2024, this number increased to nearly 37 million. This growth has led to more tourism-related jobs and business opportunities.

What should someone consider if they want to start a business in Japan?

If you're considering starting a business in Japan, you need to focus on learning Japanese, as all official documents and forms are in Japanese. Additionally, understanding the Japanese market and gaining relevant skills is essential before moving to Japan.

How does location affect the type of restaurant you should open in Japan?

The type of restaurant you should open in Japan depends on its location. For example, an American-style diner may attract younger crowds in city areas, but it would likely not be successful in smaller towns or villages where local cuisine is preferred.

What are the requirements for obtaining a business visa in Japan?

To obtain a business visa in Japan, you typically need to invest around 5 million yen (roughly $35,000 USD) and employ at least two people. The business should also show promise for long-term success to qualify for visa extensions and eventually permanent residency.

What resources are available for foreigners wanting to start a business in Japan?

There are companies that assist with visa applications, including startup visas, and they typically charge between $700 to $800 USD (approximately 70,000 to 80,000 yen). Additionally, some cities, such as Kyoto, offer support for entrepreneurs through various programs.

Why is Japan encouraging more foreign workers to come to the country?

Japan is facing a shortage in its workforce and is actively encouraging foreign workers to fill job gaps, especially in industries like tourism, hospitality, and other sectors that are vital to the economy.