Indian in Japan: Your Guide to Study, Work, and Thrive
Part I: The Foundation - Mastering the Language and the Culture
Konnichiwa, Future Japan-dweller! A Word from Your Senpai
Hello, and welcome. My name is Akash, but you might know me better as “Indori in Japan.” For the past few years, I’ve been sharing my journey—the triumphs, the challenges, the cultural discoveries, and the sheer joy of living in this incredible country. In that time, my inbox has been flooded with thousands of questions from people just like you. I’ve read messages from students in Mumbai dreaming of studying animation, from engineers in Bangalore looking to work in robotics, from commerce graduates in Delhi wondering if there’s a place for them here, and from countless anime fans who see a reflection of their dreams in my daily life.
I see your ambition, I feel your curiosity, and I understand your anxieties. You’ve asked me everything from “How do I learn Japanese?” to “Can I survive with a 57% score in my boards?” and “Will I be lonely?”. Each question is a piece of a larger puzzle: “How can I make my dream of Japan a reality?”
This guide is my answer.
I’ve compiled every question, every doubt, and every hope you’ve shared with me into a single, comprehensive roadmap. Think of me as your senpai—someone who has walked this path before you and is here to share the map. My goal, through my content, is intimidating. Book Japan is the place to be, and of course, has always been to bridge the gap between India and Japan, making this journey more accessible and less intimidating. This guide is the culmination of that effort.
Let me be clear from the start: moving to Japan is not an impossible dream fueled by watching Naruto or Jujutsu Kaisen. It is a tangible, achievable goal. But it is not easy. It requires a strategic plan, immense dedication, and a willingness to step far outside your comfort zone. It’s about more than just getting a visa; it’s about building a life. Let’s create that plan together, step by step. This is your definitive guide to studying, working, and, most importantly, thriving in the Land of the Rising Sun.
The Japanese Language Journey: Your First and Most Important Step
Of all the questions I receive, the most frequent and fundamental one is about the Japanese language. “Do I need to learn it?” “How much do I need to know?” “How long will it take?” Let me give you the most straightforward answer I can: learning Japanese is the single most important investment you will make in your future here. It is the key that unlocks everything else—better job opportunities, deeper cultural understanding, meaningful friendships, and a truly integrated life.
Why Japanese is Non-Negotiable?
Many of you, especially in the IT field, have asked if you can get a job without knowing Japanese. The short answer is yes, it’s possible. Japan has a significant shortage of tech talent, and many international companies in Tokyo will hire skilled engineers with little to no Japanese proficiency. However, viewing this as a reason to
Not learn the language is a critical mistake.
Without Japanese, you might get a job, but you will likely hit a ceiling. Your career growth will be limited to roles within an English-speaking bubble. You won’t be able to participate in broader team meetings, build strong relationships with Japanese colleagues, or transition into management roles that require deep internal communication. Daily life, from visiting a doctor to dealing with city hall paperwork or even just enjoying a local izakaya (Japanese pub), becomes a series of challenges. To truly build a life and career here, proficiency in Japanese is not optional; it is essential.
Decoding the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test)
The most common way to measure your proficiency is the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). It’s divided into five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). Understanding what these levels mean in the real world is crucial for setting your goals.
- JLPT N5: This is the most basic level. You can understand simple greetings, basic sentences, and read Hiragana, Katakana, and about 100 Kanji. It’s a great first step, but it’s not sufficient for work or complex conversations.
- JLPT N4: At this level, you can understand and participate in simple, everyday conversations. You’ll know around 300 Kanji and 1,500 vocabulary words. This is a good foundation for daily life.
- JLPT N3: This is the bridge to professional fluency. You can understand conversations at a near-natural speed and read articles on everyday topics. For many service-sector jobs, like in hospitality or retail, N3 is often the minimum requirement
- JLPT N2: This is the gold standard for most professional jobs. It signifies that you can understand a wide range of topics in both written and spoken Japanese, including business conversations and newspaper articles. If you want a corporate career in Japan, N2 should be your target.
- JLPT N1: This is the highest level, indicating an ability to understand complex and abstract Japanese across a variety of contexts. It’s required for highly specialised professions like medicine or law and allows for complete integration into any professional environment.
Timeline to Fluency
Many of you have asked, “How long will it take to reach N2 or N1?” There’s no single answer, as it depends heavily on your study methods and the time you dedicate. However, research provides a good estimate of the hours required.
For a native English speaker with no background in Kanji (the Chinese characters used in Japanese), the approximate study hours are:
- N5: 325 – 600 hours
- N4: 575 – 1,000 hours
- N3: 950 – 1,700 hours
- N2: 1,600 – 2,800 hours
- N1: 3,000 – 4,800 hours
If you study for two hours every single day, reaching N2 could take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 years. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency is far more important than intensity. Studying for one hour every day is more effective than cramming for seven hours once a week.
Resources for Beginners
The question “How do I start learning?” is one I get daily. The good news is that there are more high-quality resources available now than ever before.
- Textbooks: The two most highly recommended textbook series for beginners are Genki and Minna no Nihongo. Genki is widely used in universities and is great for self-study as it includes English explanations. Minna no Nihongo is more immersive, written almost entirely in Japanese, and is excellent for serious students who want to dive in headfirst. For those who prefer a more relaxed, self-paced approach, the
Japanese from Zero! The series is also a popular choice.
Online Grammar Guides: I have made a complete N5 grammar pre-recorded course, and you can find the link here. I have used Minna no Nihongo as a base for this and explained each concept in both English and Hindi.
For more grammar resources, you can access the Complete N5-N1 resources guide using this link. This is not a pre-recorded course but rather a guide with all the necessary books and materials you need.
- Vocabulary and Kanji: Spaced Repetition Systems (SRS) are your best friend for memorisation. Anki is a powerful, customizable flashcard app that is perfect for drilling vocabulary and Kanji. Memrise is another user-friendly alternative with pre-made courses. You can also find a Kanji course by Hamida sensei that covers all the Kanjis in the N5 level.
- Practice: For speaking practice, platforms like italki connect you with native Japanese tutors for one-on-one lessons. For writing, Lang-8 is a great community where you can post journal entries in Japanese and get corrections from native speakers.
Language School in Japan or Self-Study from India?
Here’s the fork in the road where all of you sit, balancing the high price of a language school against the self-discipline of study from India. But the decision isn’t so much money versus exposure; it’s your study style, your budget, and most importantly, your job prospects.
The largest error is believing there’s a single “best” approach. The best strategy is intimately tied to your industry. To make this clear, let’s consider the two most popular directions.
The Great Divide: Tech vs. Non-Tech Careers
You are a huge crowd of you who work in IT, and the Japanese job market statistics yell out one thing: there’s an acute lack of technical talent. Good news for you! The technology firms are loose with language proficiency because they badly need solid programmers. They’ll interview you with conversation-level Japanese and assist you with sharpening your skills after you’re hired.
But for a commerce graduate with a wish list of jobs in sales, marketing, or HR, it’s a different playing field altogether. In these customer-facing roles, your Japanese language ability isn’t a skill—it is the number one skill. Companies aren’t about to bring in native Japanese graduates to take up these jobs, so they won’t be reducing the language standard.
This is why your study plan needs to be tailor-made for your career.
Your Personalised N5-N1 Roadmap For the IT/Tech Professional: The N3 Sprint
Your strategy is to be smart and efficient.
Roadmap: Mastering your technical skills (Python, Java, AWS, etc.) is your utmost priority. Simultaneously, you require a targeted plan to clear the JLPT N3. This is the catch that makes your resume work for you with tech firms. For this, the prerecorded N5 to N3 course by Indori in Japan is your ideal toolbox. It’s tailored to take you to that job-interview level effectively from India.
The Mission: Land a job, obtain your visa, and relocate to Japan. Once in the environment, you can apply the Indori in Japan self-study N2-N1 guide to further develop your fluency and move up into senior and management positions.
For the Commerce/Business/Non-Tech Professional: The N2 Gauntlet
Your plan is to deploy your language skills as your final weapon.
Roadmap: Your Japanese skills are your key to the door. You need to work towards mastering the JLPT N2 before you get serious about looking for a job. An Indian BBA/Bcom with N2 Japanese is a special and highly sought-after commodity for a globalising company. An Indian BBA/Bcom with N5 is, bluntly, competing against all Japanese graduates in the nation.
The Goal: All your attention must be directed towards language learning. The rigorous prerecorded N5 to N1 course and self-study guide by Indori in Japan is what you need as a structured process. Stick to it assiduously, because your N2 certificate will be what opens the door for you.
Knowing this critical difference is the first step to formulating a realistic and successful plan for your journey to Japan. So, select your route, acquire the correct tools, and let us proceed.
Beyond the Textbook: Understanding the Heart of Japanese Culture
Mastering the Japanese language is only half the battle. To truly thrive here, you need to understand the cultural context in which the language is spoken. Japanese society operates on a set of unspoken rules and social norms that can be baffling to outsiders.
Navigating Social Norms
One of the most important concepts to grasp is the difference between honne (本音), one’s true feelings, and tatemae (建前), the public face or opinion one displays. In a society that highly values group harmony, or wa (和), expressing a direct negative opinion or causing confrontation is often avoided. This leads to a more indirect communication style. A “yes” might mean “I understand,” not “I agree.” A vague response might be a polite way of saying “no.” Learning to read these subtleties is a skill that takes time and observation.
Part II: The Educational Blueprint - Studying Your Way to Japan
For the many students filling out my forms, from those in 12th grade to those pursuing master’s degrees, the dream of Japan often begins with the goal of studying here. Japan’s universities are world-class, and a Japanese degree can be a powerful launchpad for a career in the country. However, navigating the world of admissions and scholarships can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Let’s break it down.
Decoding the Scholarship Maze: MEXT and Beyond
The word I see more than any other in your questions is “MEXT”. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) scholarship is the most famous and comprehensive scholarship offered by the Japanese government, and for good reason. It’s a fully-funded opportunity that can make your dream a reality.
The MEXT Scholarship Explained
The MEXT scholarship covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend (e.g., ¥117,000 for undergraduate students), and includes a round-trip flight to Japan. There are several categories, including:
- Undergraduate Students: A five-year program, including one year of preparatory Japanese language training.
- Research Students: For master’s or PhD candidates.
- Specialised Training College Students: A three-year program for vocational training.
There are two main ways to apply:
- Embassy Recommendation: You apply through the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This is the most common route. It involves a document screening, written exams, and an interview.
- University Recommendation: You apply directly to a Japanese university, which then recommends you to MEXT. This is more common for graduate-level students.
The eligibility criteria are strict. For the Embassy-recommended undergraduate scholarship, Indian students generally need to have a minimum of 80% in their 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade exams. The written exams typically cover subjects like Japanese, English, Mathematics, and Science (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology).
The Reality of Low Scores
This brings me to a question that fills my inbox: “I got 57% in my boards, am I eligible?” “My CGPA is 6.8, what are my options?”. For the Embassy-recommended MEXT undergraduate scholarship, a score below 80% will likely disqualify you from the initial screening. This is a hard truth, but it’s important to be realistic.
However, this does not mean your dream is over. MEXT is not the only path. This is where many aspirants get stuck, thinking it’s an “all-or-nothing” game. The reality is that securing funding to study in Japan should be viewed as a multi-stage financial strategy, not a single lottery ticket. The initial goal is simply to get your foot in the door. Once you are an enrolled student in Japan, a whole new world of domestic scholarship opportunities opens up. Many private foundations and local governments offer scholarships specifically for international students who are already in the country, as they are seen as a lower-risk investment.
This means you might need to reframe your plan. Perhaps you self-fund the first year at a language school or university, with a clear strategy to apply for a portfolio of these domestic scholarships to cover your subsequent years. It’s a different approach, but it makes the journey possible for a much wider range of students.
Crucial Alternatives to MEXT
Let’s look at some of the other key scholarship programs available:
- Japan Student Services Organisation (JASSO) Scholarships: JASSO is a major organisation that provides several types of financial aid.
- Monbukagakusho Honours Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students: This is for self-funded students already enrolled in a Japanese institution. It provides a monthly stipend (e.g., ¥48,000 for university students) to help with living costs. You typically apply through your university after you’ve been accepted and enrolled.
- Student Exchange Support Program: This is for students coming to Japan on a short-term exchange program through their home university. It offers a monthly stipend of ¥80,000.
- Private and Local Government Scholarships: There are hundreds of smaller scholarships offered by private companies, foundations, and local city governments. These vary widely in amount and eligibility. Some are targeted at students from specific countries, studying specific subjects, or living in a particular city. The JASSO website maintains a searchable database of these scholarships, and your university’s international student office will be your best resource for finding and applying for them once you arrive.
To help you navigate these options, here is a comparison of the major scholarship types:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Highlights | Key Benefits | Application Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| MEXT (Embassy Recommendation) | High academics (e.g., 80%+ for UG), age limits, and pass exams | Full tuition, monthly stipend, flight tickets | Japanese Embassy/Consulate in India |
| MEXT (University Recommendation) | Excellent academics, specific to university programs (mostly graduate) | Full tuition, monthly stipend, flight tickets | Directly through a Japanese University |
| JASSO Honours Scholarship | Privately-funded students already enrolled in a Japanese school | Monthly stipend (e.g., ¥48,000) | Through your Japanese university after arrival |
| ADB-Japan Scholarship Program | Citizens of ADB member countries, 2+ years work experience, admitted to a designated Master's program | Full tuition, monthly stipend, medical insurance, and flight tickets | Through participating in Japanese universities |
| Private/Local Scholarships | Varies widely; often requires being an enrolled student in Japan | Varies (monthly stipends of ¥30,000 - ¥180,000) | Mostly through your Japanese university after arrival |
Choosing Your Path: University Courses and Degrees
Once you have a handle on the financial aspect, the next question is what to study. A common concern I hear is whether an Indian degree is valid or if you need to start over.
Value of an Indian Degree
Let me put this concern to rest: yes, your bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian university is considered valid in Japan for both graduate studies and employment. For most work visas and master’s programs, the standard requirement is 16 years of formal education (12 years of school + 4 years of university). While some universities may have bridging courses or individual assessments for students from 3-year bachelor’s programs (like B.Com or B.Sc), the degree itself is respected.
English vs. Japanese Taught Programs
While the most comprehensive range of courses is taught in Japanese, the number of English-taught programs has been growing steadily, especially at the graduate level. Major universities like the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Waseda University offer many Master’s and PhD programs entirely in English, particularly in fields like engineering, IT, and international business. This can be a great option if your Japanese is not yet at an academic level. However, even if you enrol in an English program, I strongly urge you to continue learning Japanese, as it will be vital for your daily life and future career prospects.
Field-Specific Advice
Based on your questions, here’s a quick look at some popular fields:
- Engineering & IT: This is a strong choice. Japan is a technological powerhouse, and there is high demand for engineers. Many universities have excellent, well-funded programs, and the path from graduation to a good job is relatively smooth.
- Commerce (BBA/BCom/MBA): There are solid opportunities here, especially if you combine your degree with strong Japanese skills. An MBA from a Japanese university can be particularly valuable, as it provides you with a deep understanding of the local business context and a strong professional network.
- Arts & Humanities: This path can be more challenging, but it is by no means impossible. If you are passionate about Japanese literature, history, or culture, pursuing a degree here can be incredibly rewarding. High-level Japanese proficiency (N2/N1) is almost always a prerequisite and can lead to careers in translation, interpretation, academia, or cultural organisations.
The Student Life Playbook: Budgeting, Baito, and Balance
Finally, let’s talk about the reality of life as a student in Japan. It’s an experience that goes far beyond the classroom.
Cost of Living for Students
Your biggest expense will be accommodation. In major cities like Tokyo, a small single-room apartment can cost anywhere from ¥60,000 to ¥100,000 per month. University dormitories or shared apartments are much cheaper options. Beyond rent, you should budget for food, utilities, transportation, and personal expenses. A reasonable estimate for a student’s total monthly living cost (excluding tuition) is between ¥130,000 and ¥150,000.
The World of Baito (Part-Time Jobs)
Your student visa allows you to work part-time, or baito (バイト), for up to 28 hours per week during the school semester and up to 40 hours per week during long holidays like summer break. This is a fantastic way to earn money, practice your Japanese, and experience Japanese work culture.
Common part-time jobs for students include:
- Convenience Store (Konbini) Staff: A classic student job. Pay is usually around the minimum wage (approx. ¥1,100/hour in Tokyo).
- Restaurant/Cafe Staff: Working as a server or in the kitchen is great for improving your conversational and listening skills. Pay is similar to convenience stores.
- Teaching English: If you are a native or fluent English speaker, tutoring can be one of the highest-paying part-time jobs, with hourly rates ranging from ¥2,000 to ¥3,500 or more.
- Factory/Warehouse Work: These jobs often require less Japanese proficiency and can pay slightly higher hourly wages, but can be physically demanding.
Can Baito Cover All Expenses?
This is a critical question for many of you who are worried about burdening your families. If you work the maximum 28 hours per week at an average wage of ¥1,200/hour, you can earn approximately ¥134,400 per month. This can cover a significant portion, if not all, of your living expenses. However, it is very difficult for this income to also cover your tuition fees. It’s wise to plan for your tuition to be covered by scholarships or family support, and use your part-time earnings to manage your daily life. Relying solely on Baito income for everything is extremely stressful and can negatively impact your studies.
Part III: The Professional Roadmap - Building Your Career in the Land of the Rising Sun
For many of you, the ultimate goal is not just to study, but to build a professional life in Japan. The questions I’ve received span a huge range of industries, from IT and mechanical engineering to animation, finance, and even law. The Japanese job market has its own unique rules and opportunities, but for a skilled and prepared individual, the prospects are excellent. Let’s create your professional roadmap.
The Modern Gold Rush: Thriving in Japan's IT and Tech Sector
If there is one field where Indian professionals have a distinct advantage, it is Information Technology. Japan is facing a critical shortage of skilled IT workers, and companies are actively looking abroad to fill the gap. This is the modern gold rush, and for those with the right skills, the opportunities are immense.
High-Demand Roles
The demand is broad and covers nearly every specialisation within the tech industry. The most sought-after roles currently include:
- Software Developers/Engineers: Expertise in languages like Python, Java, Go, and TypeScript is highly valued.
- AI and Machine Learning Engineers: As a global leader in robotics and automation, Japan has a voracious appetite for AI talent.
- Cybersecurity Specialists: With increasing digitalisation, the need for cybersecurity experts is at an all-time high.
- Cloud Engineers: Proficiency with platforms like AWS is a key skill that companies are actively hiring for.
- Data Scientists and Analysts: The ability to interpret large datasets is crucial for businesses across all sectors.
Salary Expectations
Salaries in the Japanese tech sector are competitive and have been rising due to the talent shortage. While they might not always reach the peaks of Silicon Valley, the high quality of life and lower cost of living in many Japanese cities can make the overall package very attractive. Here’s a general idea of what to expect annually:
- Entry-Level/Junior Developer (0-3 years experience): ¥4,000,000 to ¥7,000,000
- Mid-Level Engineer (3-7 years experience): ¥7,000,000 to ¥12,000,000
- Senior Engineer/Team Lead (7+ years experience): ¥12,000,000 to ¥20,000,000+
Salaries can vary significantly based on the company. Large international firms like Google, Amazon, and Indeed, or successful Japanese tech giants like Mercari, Rakuten, and PayPay, often offer higher compensation packages than smaller domestic companies.
The Language Advantage (Even in Tech)
As we discussed in Part I, while you can land an IT job with minimal Japanese, it’s a misconception to think it’s not important. Having at least a conversational level (N3) will make your daily life and integration into the team smoother. Achieving business-level proficiency (N2) will dramatically expand your options, allowing you to apply to a wider range of companies (including a majority of Japanese firms) and positioning you for leadership roles in the future. Your code might be in English, but your team meetings, documentation, and lunch conversations will likely be in Japanese.
Beyond Code: Opportunities in Engineering, Commerce, and Finance
While the spotlight is often on IT, Japan’s powerful economy offers robust opportunities for professionals in many other fields.
Mechanical Engineering
For those of you with a background in mechanical engineering, Japan is a land of opportunity. It is the heartland of some of the world’s most advanced manufacturing and automotive industries. Companies like Nissan, Toyota, and their vast network of parts suppliers are constantly seeking skilled engineers for roles in R&D, design, and production technology. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and robotics has further fueled this demand. A degree in mechanical engineering from a good Indian university, combined with JLPT N2 level proficiency, makes for a very strong profile.
Commerce & Finance (BBA, MBA, CA)
Many of you with commerce backgrounds have asked about your prospects. The opportunities are plentiful, but the language requirement is much stricter than in IT. Roles in sales, marketing, human resources, accounting, and financial planning are widely available in both Japanese and multinational companies. However, these roles are inherently communication-intensive. You will be dealing with Japanese clients, colleagues, and regulations. Therefore, a JLPT N2 certificate is generally considered the minimum entry requirement, with N1 being a significant advantage. For those with a Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification, there are niche roles in auditing and international finance, often within the “Big Four” accounting firms or the finance departments of large corporations.
To give you a clearer picture, here is a snapshot of the job market across these key industries:
| Industry | Demand Level | Required JLPT Level (Entry/Growth) | Average Salary Range (Entry-Level) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT / Software | High | N4-N3 / N2+ | ¥4.5M - ¥8M |
| Mechanical Engineering | High | N3 / N2+ | ¥4M - ¥7M |
| Finance / Sales / Marketing | Medium | N2 / N1 | ¥4M - ¥6.5M |
| Biotechnology / Pharma | Medium-Niche | N2 / N1 | ¥5M - ¥8M |
| English Teaching | High | N5 (or None) / N3+ | ¥3M - ¥4.5M |
| Animation / Design | Niche (High Competition) | N2 / N1 | ¥3.5M - ¥5.5M |
The Creative Calling and Niche Professions
I receive many passionate messages from aspiring artists, animators, and professionals in highly specialised fields. The path for these careers is often narrower and more competitive, but success is possible with the right strategy and a realistic mindset.
Animation & Design
The “Naruto fan” dream of working as an animator in Japan is a powerful one, and many of you share it. Japan is undeniably the global centre of the animation industry. However, it’s crucial to understand that this is an incredibly competitive field. You will be competing against a massive pool of talented domestic artists. To succeed, your portfolio and technical skills must be exceptional. While some studios are hiring internationally, fluency in Japanese (N2 or higher) is almost always required for effective collaboration within a production team. A degree in animation or design from a Japanese vocational school (senmon gakko) can be a great way to build skills, network, and get a foot in the door.
Biotechnology & Agriculture
These are promising fields with growing opportunities. Japan’s advanced healthcare system and ageing population are driving demand in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. There are numerous research and development roles available in companies and universities across the country. A Master’s or PhD degree is often required, along with N2-level Japanese. Salaries in this sector can be quite competitive, with averages for a biotechnologist ranging from ¥5,800,000 to over ¥8,000,000 annually. In agriculture, the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program has opened up new pathways for foreign nationals to work on farms in areas like crop farming and livestock management
Psychology & Law
These are highly regulated professions in Japan, and the path for foreign-qualified professionals is specific. For psychology, to practice as a clinical psychologist, you would typically need to be licensed in Japan, which requires a graduate degree from a Japanese university and native-level fluency.53 However, there are opportunities in related fields, such as corporate training, HR, and counselling services for the foreign community, where a foreign qualification combined with Japanese language skills can be valuable
For law, an Indian law degree does not allow you to practice Japanese law. However, there is a specific qualification called Gaikokuho Jimu Bengoshi (Gaiben), or Registered Foreign Lawyer. This allows a lawyer qualified in another country to advise on the laws of their home jurisdiction while based in Japan. This is a common path for lawyers working in the Tokyo offices of large international law firms, specialising in areas like cross-border M&A, finance, and international arbitration.
Teaching English
This is one of the most common and accessible entry points for foreigners to come and work in Japan. The primary requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree (in any subject) from an accredited university and native or native-level English proficiency. Programs like the JET Programme or private English conversation schools (eikaiwa) like Interac, hire thousands of Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) each year. While the salary is modest (typically ¥3,000,000 to ¥4,500,000 per year), it provides a stable income, visa sponsorship, and an incredible opportunity to experience life in Japan. Many people use this as a stepping stone, learning Japanese and networking during their time as a teacher before transitioning to other industries.
The Art of the Job Hunt: From Rirekisho to Visa Sponsorship
Knowing the opportunities is one thing; successfully navigating the application process is another. The Japanese job hunt has its own set of rituals and documents.
Job Search Platforms
Your job search will primarily happen online. Bookmark these essential websites:
- For a wide range of jobs, GaijinPot Jobs, Daijob, and CareerCross are the biggest and oldest job boards for English-speaking professionals in Japan.
- For IT/Tech jobs: TokyoDev and Japan Dev are specialised platforms with high-quality listings from tech companies that are actively hiring foreigners.
For bilingual professionals: Daijob and CareerCross focus on roles that require a combination of Japanese and another language, often English.
Crafting Your Resume (Rirekisho & Shokumu Keirekisho)
When you apply for a job at a Japanese company, you will likely be asked for two documents, not one.
- Rirekisho (履歴書): This is your standard resume, but it follows a very rigid format. It includes personal information, education history, work history, certifications, and often a photo. You can find standard templates online, and it’s crucial to follow the format precisely.
- Shokumu Keirekisho (職務経歴書): This is your professional work history. Unlike the rirekisho, this document is free-form. Here, you detail your responsibilities and achievements at each of your previous jobs. This is your chance to sell your skills and experience.
For many of you asking for help with your resume, my advice is to prepare both of these documents. Even if a company only asks for an English CV, having a Japanese version ready shows your seriousness and preparation.
The Visa Process
This is often seen as the most daunting part, but it’s quite straightforward once you understand the key component: the Certificate of Eligibility (COE). You cannot apply for a work visa on your own. You must have a company in Japan that is willing to sponsor you.
The process works like this:
- Secure a Job Offer: You interview for and receive a formal job offer from a company in Japan.
- Company Applies for COE: Your new employer will act as your sponsor. They will gather the necessary documents from you (passport copy, degree certificates, etc.) and submit an application for a COE on your behalf to the regional immigration office in Japan. This process can take 1-3 months.
- COE is Sent to You: Once approved, the original COE will be mailed to you in India.
- Apply for Visa: With the original COE, your passport, a completed visa application form, and photos, you will apply for your work visa at the Japanese Embassy or a designated consulate in India (e.g., in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai).
- Receive Visa and Enter Japan: The visa processing time is usually about 4-5 working days. Once you have the visa stamped in your passport, you are ready to book your flight and begin your new life in Japan.
Part IV: The Reality of a New Life - Settling and Living as an Indian in Japan
Securing a job or a university admission is a massive achievement, but it’s also just the beginning. The next phase is the move itself—a process filled with logistics, financial planning, and a whole new set of cultural adjustments. This final part of our guide will address your questions about the practical and emotional realities of settling into your new life.
Making the Move: Your Financial and Logistical Checklist
The transition from India to Japan requires careful planning, especially when it comes to finances and family.
Initial Relocation Costs
One of the most common questions I get is about the funds required to move.1 It’s more than just the cost of a plane ticket. You need to be prepared for significant upfront costs, especially for housing. It’s often recommended to have at least ¥500,000 (approximately ₹3 lakhs) in accessible cash when you arrive. Here’s a breakdown of why:
- Initial Housing Costs: This is the biggest expense. In Japan, renting an apartment typically involves several upfront payments that can total 2 to 4 times the monthly rent. This includes:
- Deposit (Shikikin): Usually 1 month’s rent, partially refundable.
- Key Money (Reikin): A non-refundable gift to the landlord, often 1 month’s rent.
- Agent Fee (Chukai Tesuryo): A fee to the real estate agent, typically 1 month’s rent + tax.
- First Month’s Rent: Paid in advance.
For an apartment with a rent of ¥80,000, your initial move-in cost could easily be ¥320,000 or more.
- Living Expenses: You will need money to live on for the first month before you receive your first salary. This includes food, transportation, and setting up your apartment with basic furniture and utilities.
Bringing Your Family
Many of you have asked about moving to Japan “with family”. It’s important to understand that this is typically a sequential process, not a simultaneous one. You cannot all arrive together on day one.
The process for obtaining a Dependent Visa for your spouse and children relies on you, the primary visa holder, already being established in Japan. The steps are as follows:
- You Arrive and Settle: You must first enter Japan on your work or student visa, receive your Residence Card (Zairyu Card) at the airport, find an apartment, and register your address at the local city office.
- Apply for Dependent COEs: Once you are settled, you will apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for each family member at the immigration office in Japan. You will need to provide documents like your marriage certificate, your children’s birth certificates, and proof of your financial ability to support them (e.g., your employment certificate and tax documents).
- Family Applies for Visas in India: Once the COEs are issued and you mail them back to India, your family members will use them to apply for their Dependent Visas at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate
This process means you should plan for a period of separation, which could last a few months. This has both financial implications (supporting two households temporarily) and emotional ones. Preparing for this reality is a crucial part of a smooth family relocation.
From Poha to Onigiri: Your Guide to Daily Life in Japan
Once the initial logistics are handled, you’ll begin to settle into a daily routine. Here’s what you can expect.
Monthly Cost of Living
Your monthly budget will depend heavily on your lifestyle and, most importantly, where you live. Tokyo is the most expensive city, while cities like Osaka, Fukuoka, or Sapporo can be more affordable.
| Expense Category | Tokyo (Approximate) | Osaka (Approximate) | Fukuoka (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1DK/1LDK) | ¥80,000 - ¥120,000 | ¥60,000 - ¥90,000 | ¥50,000 - ¥70,000 |
| Food & Groceries | ¥40,000 - ¥60,000 | ¥35,000 - ¥50,000 | ¥30,000 - ¥45,000 |
| Utilities (Gas, Elec, Water) | ¥10,000 - ¥15,000 | ¥9,000 - ¥13,000 | ¥8,000 - ¥12,000 |
| Transport (Monthly Pass) | ¥8,000 - ¥12,000 | ¥7,000 - ¥10,000 | ¥6,000 - ¥9,000 |
| Internet & Mobile Phone | ¥8,000 - ¥10,000 | ¥8,000 - ¥10,000 | ¥8,000 - ¥10,000 |
| Miscellaneous | ¥20,000 - ¥40,000 | ¥20,000 - ¥35,000 | ¥15,000 - ¥30,000 |
| Total (Monthly) | ¥166,000 - ¥257,000 | ¥139,000 - ¥208,000 | ¥117,000 - ¥176,000 |
(Note: These are estimates for a single person. Costs in Indian Rupees will fluctuate with the exchange rate.)
Finding a Taste of Home
A big concern for many Indians is food. Will you be able to find the spices, dals, and ingredients you need to cook the food you love? The answer is a resounding yes! The Indian community in Japan has grown to over 50,000 people, and with it, the availability of Indian products has exploded.
There are numerous online Indian grocery stores that deliver nationwide. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Indobazaar
- Sartaj Foods
- Ambika Veg and Vegan Shop
- MAYA BAZAAR
You can find everything from Basmati rice and atta to paneer, spices, and even ready-to-eat meals. In major cities, especially in areas with a high concentration of Indian residents like Edogawa in Tokyo, you will also find physical Indian grocery stores. While you will surely fall in love with Japanese food, it’s a great comfort to know that a taste of home is never far away.
A Special Note for the Person in Yokohama
To the person who messaged me from Yokohama asking where to find matcha tea to take home—I’ve got you covered!. Yokohama has some excellent speciality tea shops. I highly recommend visiting.g
SAKURA Japanese Tea Speciality Shop in the Motomachi area. They offer a wide variety of high-quality organic teas, and you can even enjoy a delicious matcha parfait while you’re there. Another great option is
Ujicha Matabei in Hodogaya-ku, which specialises in premium Uji tea from Kyoto. You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at either of these places.
Finding Your Tribe: Overcoming Loneliness and Building a Social Life
I want to end this guide by addressing one of the most personal and important questions I received: a message from someone who had just moved here for a job and was feeling overwhelmed by loneliness and panic. To you and to everyone who worries about this, please know that what you are feeling is completely normal. Moving to a new country, especially one with a significant language and cultural barrier, can be an isolating experience at first.
The key to overcoming this is to be proactive in building your community. You have to put yourself out there.
- Join Community Groups: Look for expat groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Meetup. There are groups for everything—hiking, photography, language exchange, and more.
- Live in a Share House: Especially when you first arrive, living in a share house or “guest house” can be a fantastic way to meet people instantly. These places are designed to foster community among both Japanese and international residents.
- Take a Class: Sign up for a Japanese class, a cooking class, or a martial arts class. Shared activities are a natural way to build friendships.
- Connect with the Indian Community: Don’t underestimate the comfort of connecting with people who share your background. The Indian community in Japan is vibrant and growing, with cultural events and festivals happening regularly, especially around holidays like Diwali
- Seek Professional Support: If feelings of loneliness become overwhelming, please do not hesitate to seek help. Organisations like TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline) provide confidential counselling and support in English.
Building a social life takes time and effort, but it is possible. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the small victories.
Answering Your Personal Questions: My Journey and Final Thoughts
Finally, many of you have asked about my own story. “How did you go to Japan?” “What did you study?” “What job do you do?”. My journey started in Indore, just like many of you. I was not a top student in a technical field. My path to Japan was built on one key decision: to master the Japanese language. I pursued a B.A. in Japanese, dedicated myself to reaching the highest levels of proficiency, and leveraged that skill to build a career in marketing here in Tokyo.
My story is proof that you don’t need to be an IIT graduate or a coding genius to make it in Japan. What you need is a valuable skill, and for many non-technical fields, the Japanese language is that skill.
I hope this guide has answered your questions and given you a clear, realistic, and encouraging roadmap. The path from India to Japan is long. It is filled with challenges—visa paperwork, language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and moments of doubt. But it is also filled with incredible rewards—a safe and beautiful environment, a rich and fascinating culture, a fulfilling career, and the immense personal growth that comes from building a life so far from home.
Your dream of Japan is valid, and it is within your reach. Use this guide as your starting point. Do your research, make your plan, and then, most importantly, take the first step.
Ganbatte kudasai (Do your best). I’ll be here, cheering you on.
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