Living and Working in Japan

Living and working in the Land of the Rising Sun can be both a unique and daunting experience for expats. This beautiful country, which combines an ancient culture with Western influences, is still attracting business despite the economic crisis.

Japan's location and the fact that it is an island nation have deeply marked the country's development. Around 98% of the population are ethnically Japanese, although Japan has one of the largest expat communities in the world. Around three million expats live in Japan, which makes roughly 1.9% of a total population of 128 million people.

Expatriates contribute to the third largest economy in the world by nominal GDP. The impact of the earthquake in 2011 was small and limited to certain sectors, such as agricultural produce. However, the crisis is still present, although Japan is still attracting expats who may want to do business there.

Many skilled expats work in specialist positions in the automotive sector, construction, medical or environmental technology or industrial translators. Other sectors are IT or electronics. Many other expats hold positions in the diplomatic service, foreign correspondents or have been transferred to within their own companies.

The local customs and the overwhelming bureaucracy can be barriers to both living and working in Japan, together with the fact that everything often works according to different, unwritten rules. Fear not! There are ways to get round these difficulties. Let's take a look at some hints and tips to help you make your stay in Japan a profitable and stress-free experience.

Working in Japan

• Learn Japanese. It will ease your transition;
• A heightened sense of formality is present in the business world;
• Be aware of hierarchy in the workplace;
• Team work, harmony, compromise and self-discipline are stressed;
• Decisions are rarely made in a meeting;
• Do not underestimate the importance of building relationships with both senior and junior colleagues;
• Building contacts in the local business community is key;
• Silence is considered a virtue. At a business meeting, silence may be used to reflect on what has been mentioned.
  

Living in Japan

• Japanese use fresh vegetables and ingredients in their cuisine;
• A typical Japanese meal is usually made up of various smaller dishes;
• Many kinds of Western cuisine are also popular;
• Gift-giving is encouraged in Japanese culture and used to build up relationships both in business and in life.
• Expats can enjoy public healthcare, but the high price tag and other aspects make it easier for expats to take out an international medical insurance policy before going to Japan.
• Explore Japan's country side and temples.
• Check out the ice sculpture festival in Sapporo. 
• Visit the ancient former capital of Nara.
• Check Naoshima's contemporary art museums.

Have you got any other tips? Please let us know!

Thank you for reading this blog post.
The Medibroker Team


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