{"id":37675,"date":"2025-03-31T08:16:30","date_gmt":"2025-03-31T08:16:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/?p=37675"},"modified":"2025-06-11T07:20:11","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T07:20:11","slug":"internships-in-tokyo-what-its-like-to-work-in-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/internships-in-tokyo-what-its-like-to-work-in-japan\/","title":{"rendered":"Internships in Tokyo: What It\u2019s Like to Work in Japan"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/internships-in-tokyo-what-its-like-to-work-in-japan\/#Can_you_work_in_Japan_even_if_you_dont_speak_Japanese\" >Can you work in Japan even if you don\u2019t speak Japanese?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/internships-in-tokyo-what-its-like-to-work-in-japan\/#Understanding_Japanese_work_etiquette\" >Understanding Japanese work etiquette<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/internships-in-tokyo-what-its-like-to-work-in-japan\/#Get_started_on_your_Tokyo_internship_journey\" >Get started on your Tokyo internship journey<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ah, Japan\u2014home to cutting-edge technology, rich cultural traditions, and world-famous cuisine. It\u2019s 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?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For starters, an average walk around Tokyo, the country\u2019s capital, will have you spotting onsen (natural hot springs), shrines tucked between skyscrapers, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.japan-guide.com\/e\/e2010.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">vending machines that you never thought possible<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Imagine experiencing this on your way to your internship everyday. If you\u2019re thinking how cool it seems to have so much culture but also be so modern, you are absolutely right.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s not just the unique commute to the office, though. Japan\u2019s work culture may also be largely different from what you\u2019re used to. An internship program\u2014especially a summer internship in Japan\u2014may be an incredible experience, but it would be helpful to know the local culture before you dive in.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First things first: Can you intern in Japan?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Can foreigners intern in Japan?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internships in Japan for international students are most definitely okay. Many companies offer opportunities in different industries and cities, like a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/internships\/marketing-internships\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marketing internship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Tokyo.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will likely need a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/programs\/tokyo-internships\/#visa\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">visa for a Japan internship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, though. Thankfully, university partnerships and global internship programs often help with this!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_work_in_Japan_even_if_you_dont_speak_Japanese\"><\/span><b>Can you work in Japan even if you don\u2019t speak Japanese?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speaking Japanese helps, but it\u2019s not always required\u2014many 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 &amp; Tourism.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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\u2014all these become easier when you can speak the language.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now, come get to know the work culture in Japan.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><em>The work culture in Japan<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While every company is different, here are some key aspects of Japanese work culture that you\u2019ll likely experience:<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Punctuality is very important<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Japan, being on time is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/japan-dev.com\/blog\/japanese-punctuality\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a sign of respect<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Be mindful of your punctuality, whether you\u2019re arriving at the office, attending a meeting, or submitting your deliverables. Being punctual shows that you\u2019re reliable as well, so get on that habit, stat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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\u2019ll have plenty of time to explore!<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Formal but friendly<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Again, Japanese workplaces tend to be formal and respectful, but that doesn\u2019t mean they\u2019re unwelcoming! Colleagues will still be happy to guide you through your internship. Do expect polite communication and clear hierarchies, though.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yup\u2014while many companies are modernizing, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/japan-dev.com\/blog\/company-positions-and-job-titles-in-japanese\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hierarchy can still be a big deal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Japan. So take the time to learn how to properly address your colleagues as well.<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Teamwork makes the dream work<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Japanese_work_etiquette\"><\/span><b>Understanding Japanese work etiquette<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">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!<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Bowing<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you arrive in Japan, one of the first things you might notice is the amount of bowing. This is totally normal. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nippon.com\/en\/guide-to-japan\/gu020001\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bowing is customary in Japan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and is done to show respect, greet others, express gratitude, and even apologize.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice your bows before your Japan internship. And remember: the deeper the bow, the higher the respect.<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Business cards<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We know that having business cards of your own can be exciting, but don\u2019t just go around handing them out to everyone. In Japan, there\u2019s a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/exporttojapan.co.uk\/guide\/getting-started\/business-etiquette\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">proper way of giving and receiving business cards<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re among multiple colleagues, start with the most senior member of the team first. Hold both corners of the card\u2014the ones closest to you\u2014using both hands, and present it to the recipient with a slight bow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Almost the same goes for when you\u2019re receiving a card. Take it with both hands and express appreciation. If the card exchange happens during a meeting, don\u2019t keep their cards right away. Place it neatly on the table in front of you and keep it that way throughout the meeting.<\/span><i><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><strong><i>Meetings<\/i><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Japan, it\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While it may depend on the culture in your internship, it\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the meeting, taking notes shows that you\u2019re paying attention. Don\u2019t interrupt, and if they offer snacks\u2014yay, food!\u2014make sure to accept it. If you really, really do not want to eat it, you can still accept it and just leave it aside.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you know all these, you\u2019re pretty much ready for that exciting internship in Japan! If you\u2019re not sure exactly where to intern, Tokyo is a great city to consider. It\u2019s world class (with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.investtokyo.metro.tokyo.lg.jp\/en\/whytokyo\/tokyos-urban-strength.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GDP comparable to that of the Netherlands<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and has about 3,000 major companies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_started_on_your_Tokyo_internship_journey\"><\/span><b>Get started on your Tokyo internship journey<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Absolute Internship\u2019s 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 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/programs\/tokyo-internships\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">internship in Tokyo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with us today!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ah, Japan\u2014home to cutting-edge technology, rich cultural traditions, and world-famous cuisine. It\u2019s no surprise that a lot of students opt to do international internship programs in the land of the&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6168,"featured_media":37481,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[920],"tags":[1100,1101],"table_tags":[],"class_list":["post-37675","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-international-internship","tag-internships-in-tokyo","tag-internships-in-tokyo-2025"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37675","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6168"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37675"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37675\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37481"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37675"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37675"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37675"},{"taxonomy":"table_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/table_tags?post=37675"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}