31 Mar Internships in Tokyo: What It’s Like to Work in Japan
Ah, Japan—home to cutting-edge technology, rich cultural traditions, and world-famous cuisine. It’s no surprise that a lot of students opt to do international internship programs in the land of the rising sun! What does an internship in Japan look like, though?
For starters, an average walk around Tokyo, the country’s capital, will have you spotting onsen (natural hot springs), shrines tucked between skyscrapers, and vending machines that you never thought possible. Imagine experiencing this on your way to your internship everyday. If you’re thinking how cool it seems to have so much culture but also be so modern, you are absolutely right.
It’s not just the unique commute to the office, though. Japan’s work culture may also be largely different from what you’re used to. An internship program—especially a summer internship in Japan—may be an incredible experience, but it would be helpful to know the local culture before you dive in.
First things first: Can you intern in Japan?
Can foreigners intern in Japan?
Internships in Japan for international students are most definitely okay. Many companies offer opportunities in different industries and cities, like a Marketing internship in Tokyo.
You will likely need a visa for a Japan internship, though. Thankfully, university partnerships and global internship programs often help with this!
Can you work in Japan even if you don’t speak Japanese?
Speaking Japanese helps, but it’s not always required—many companies understand and use English. Of course, knowing the local language could come in handy during your internship, especially in industries like Public Relations and Hospitality & Tourism.
A Marketing intern who knows common Japanese phrases and words, for example, can go a long way in networking and daily tasks. And that goes beyond your internship, too! Shopping, ordering food, navigating public transportation—all these become easier when you can speak the language.
Now, come get to know the work culture in Japan.
The work culture in Japan
Japanese workplaces are structured, respectful, and detail-oriented. The culture in general emphasizes respect, and manners and etiquette both play key roles in daily life.
While every company is different, here are some key aspects of Japanese work culture that you’ll likely experience:
Punctuality is very important
In Japan, being on time is a sign of respect. Be mindful of your punctuality, whether you’re arriving at the office, attending a meeting, or submitting your deliverables. Being punctual shows that you’re reliable as well, so get on that habit, stat.
The usual working days and hours in Japan are Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 6PM. Overtime is pretty common in traditional companies, but internships usually have lighter workloads and schedules. You’ll have plenty of time to explore!
Formal but friendly
Again, Japanese workplaces tend to be formal and respectful, but that doesn’t mean they’re unwelcoming! Colleagues will still be happy to guide you through your internship. Do expect polite communication and clear hierarchies, though.
Yup—while many companies are modernizing, hierarchy can still be a big deal in Japan. So take the time to learn how to properly address your colleagues as well.
Teamwork makes the dream work
Sure, there are hierarchies, and senior employees are expected to provide guidance, but decisions are often made collectively. Collaboration and team harmony are also big parts of Japanese work culture after all, so always be mindful of how your actions affect the team.
Understanding Japanese work etiquette
As mentioned, manners and etiquette are highly valued in Japan. Take time to learn them before your internship so you can make a good impression and avoid awkward moments!
Bowing
When you arrive in Japan, one of the first things you might notice is the amount of bowing. This is totally normal. Bowing is customary in Japan and is done to show respect, greet others, express gratitude, and even apologize.
Practice your bows before your Japan internship. And remember: the deeper the bow, the higher the respect.
Business cards
We know that having business cards of your own can be exciting, but don’t just go around handing them out to everyone. In Japan, there’s a proper way of giving and receiving business cards.
If you’re among multiple colleagues, start with the most senior member of the team first. Hold both corners of the card—the ones closest to you—using both hands, and present it to the recipient with a slight bow.
Almost the same goes for when you’re receiving a card. Take it with both hands and express appreciation. If the card exchange happens during a meeting, don’t keep their cards right away. Place it neatly on the table in front of you and keep it that way throughout the meeting.
Meetings
In Japan, it’s good courtesy to arrive at least 10 minutes before the actual meeting schedule. Since punctuality is ingrained in the local culture, expect meetings to start on time.
While it may depend on the culture in your internship, it’s usually seen as rude if you sit down before the host does. If unsure, you can always hang back and observe what everyone else does first.
During the meeting, taking notes shows that you’re paying attention. Don’t interrupt, and if they offer snacks—yay, food!—make sure to accept it. If you really, really do not want to eat it, you can still accept it and just leave it aside.
Now that you know all these, you’re pretty much ready for that exciting internship in Japan! If you’re not sure exactly where to intern, Tokyo is a great city to consider. It’s world class (with a GDP comparable to that of the Netherlands) and has about 3,000 major companies.
Get started on your Tokyo internship journey
Absolute Internship’s international internship program includes a guaranteed internship, high-end student residence, 24/7 on-site support, exciting cultural activities and day trips, visa assistance, and so much more. Apply for your internship in Tokyo with us today!
No Comments