What it's like to work in Japan?

There are plenty of things about the Japanese culture that are not only beautiful and fun, but sometimes controversial, strange, or downright regrettable. One subject that fits in well with this is the Japanese working culture. Most of us have heard a bit about the enormous workload, long working days, and other horror stories about working in Japan.

Working weeks of more than 120 hours are all too common, overtime is rarely paid and taking a holiday brings you the envy of your colleagues. The stories of people who have literally worked themselves to death must have come to your ears. But what's true about this?

In Japan, it is more the rule rather than the exception that one works six days a week, ten hours a day. In addition, overtime is more often than not paid out. These long working weeks are not always due to a large amount of work. In Japan, traditions and social habits are highly regarded. Are they always as productive? The answer is no, there is not always enough work. In this way, they almost make it a sport to work on simple tasks for as long as possible. As a result, more work is piling up and they can continue their long days.

In Japan, it is more the rule rather than the exception that one works six days a week, ten hours a day. In addition, overtime is more often than not paid out. These long working weeks are not always due to a large amount of work. In Japan, traditions and social habits are highly regarded. Are they always as productive? The answer is no, there is not always enough work. In this way, they almost make it a sport to work on simple tasks for as long as possible. As a result, more work is piling up and they can continue their long days.

Another, nicer Japanese tradition is the "nomikai". Nomikai is a party after work with the employees. Most employees are expected here on a regular basis because it is part of their work culture. These are parties where there is often a lot to drink, but there is certainly no shortage of fun. The real purpose of the Nomikai is a kind of team building for the employees in the hope that their ties will be strengthened. As a result, the working atmosphere should improve a lot. For students there is something similar, namely the "konpa".

Ruben Mettepenningen