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A Basic Guide on Japanese Etiquette and Manners
Introduction In Japan, there's a saying, "郷に入っては郷に従え," which translates to "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." This expression emphasizes the importance of respecting and adapting to the customs and traditions of the country you're in, and this holds true for Japan as well. Whether you're here for business or personal reasons, understanding and practicing local etiquette is crucial. While Japan shares some basic manners with countries like the US and UK—such as polite langua
May 23, 20249 min read


Career Guide for Japan's Sogo Shosha 2024: Overview and Essential Job Application Insights
総合商社の概要に関する説明および総合商社に就職するための具体的な方策について記載していく。
Apr 24, 202414 min read


Navigating the Interview Process in Japanese Companies for Sogo-Shoku Positions: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction Embarking on a career journey in Japan, especially in the coveted Sogo-Shoku (generalist) roles, requires an adept understanding of how to prepare for Sogo-Shoku interviews. Sogo-Shoku positions are highly sought after for their diverse responsibilities and potential for career growth. They involve a broad range of tasks rather than specialized work, making them ideal for individuals seeking varied experiences and organizational knowledge. This guide aims to navi
Mar 3, 20245 min read


Job-based vs. Membership-based Employment in Japan - Why is Membership-based attractive?
In recent years, the term "job-based employment" has emerged as a buzzword in the human resources sector in Japan. This trend represents a shift from the traditional membership-based employment, which has been the norm for regular employees in Japanese companies, to a model that aligns with the global and digital market trends. While academic in origin, these concepts have transcended their original definitions and are now used in discussions about trends and value judgments
Jan 30, 20247 min read


Breaking the Myth: Is Japan Still Overworking?
(Updated: May 8th, 2025) After World War II, Japan experienced a miraculous post-war recovery, reaching the peak of its economic growth with the country's GDP ranking second in the world. This period, 50 years ago, was marked by the hard work and dedication of salaried employees, often referred to as "Mōretsu Shain" (fierce employees) or "corporate warriors," who were highly valued by companies and society for their contribution to corporate profits. In 1979, during the post-
Dec 17, 20235 min read


Is the Claim 'Salaries in Japan are Low' True?
1. Introduction A simple search for "Salary in Japan" often yields phrases like "salaries in Japan are too low," "low wages in Japan," and "Japanese salaries not rising." Indeed, according to the Monthly Labor Statistics Survey published by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in October 2023, Japan's real wages decreased by 2.3% compared to the previous year, marking the 19th consecutive month of decline *1 . In a global comparison, Japan's annual average wages in 2022
Dec 15, 20236 min read
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