Overtime in Japan Work Culture: What Foreign Workers Need to Know
Lio
Working in Japan is often described as exciting, rewarding, and culturally unique. However, one of the first things many foreign workers notice is the issue of overtime in Japan work culture. If you are considering a job in Japan, or if you are already working here, you might be wondering: Why is overtime so common in Japan? How much is expected? And how should foreigners deal with it?
For me as a Japanese worker, overtime is something I take for granted. The reason is that, without doing so, I cannot match the atmosphere of those around me. What is unique in Japan is that when negotiating the terms of a new job, people often focus on how much they can earn only from overtime pay. Overtime is considered normal, and some even ask how many hours of overtime they are allowed to work. In many cases, overtime pay has become part of one’s living expenses.
Why Overtime Is Common in Japan
Overtime in Japan is not only about workload, but also about cultural expectations. Some reasons include:
- Seniority and loyalty: Staying late is sometimes seen as a sign of dedication to the company.
- Group harmony: Employees may hesitate to leave before their boss or coworkers.
- Unclear boundaries: In traditional Japanese companies, job roles can be vague, which often leads to additional tasks.
How Many Hours of Overtime Are Normal?
Officially, Japanese labor law sets limits on overtime. The standard workweek is 40 hours, and companies must pay extra for overtime. However, in reality, surveys show many employees work 20–80 hours of overtime per month. Some industries, such as IT, finance, and manufacturing, are known for heavier overtime.
Overtime hours have decreased compared to the past. However, in some departments, due to the recent labor shortage, overtime has actually increased. In Japan, a legal cap on overtime has finally been introduced: in principle, employees are not allowed to work more than 80 hours of overtime per month.
Overtime Pay and Labor Laws
- Overtime pay usually starts at 125% of the regular hourly wage.
- Late-night overtime (after 10 p.m.) is 150%.
- Japan has recently introduced “work-style reform” laws to reduce excessive overtime, but enforcement varies.
Foreign workers should always check their employment contract carefully to see if overtime pay is included or if they are on a fixed salary system.
Cultural Differences for Foreigners
Many foreigners find it difficult to adjust to the unspoken pressure of staying late at the office. In Western countries, leaving on time is normal and efficient. In Japan, however, leaving on time can sometimes feel awkward if others are still working. This creates stress for newcomers who want to fit in but also maintain a healthy work-life balance.
How Foreign Workers Can Handle Overtime
- Clarify expectations during interviews – Ask about average overtime hours before accepting a job.
- Check company reviews – Websites like Glassdoor or Reddit have honest reviews from other foreigners.
- Communicate politely – If you need to leave on time, explain clearly but respectfully to your manager.
- Know your rights – Familiarize yourself with Japanese labor law (労働基準法 / Roudou Kijunhou).
- Seek balance – Many modern or international companies in Japan encourage flexible hours and remote work.
Final Thoughts
Overtime in Japan work culture is both a challenge and a learning experience. While it can be demanding, understanding the reasons behind it and knowing how to navigate the system will make your working life in Japan smoother. If you are planning to work here, remember: not all companies are the same. More and more Japanese firms are embracing healthy work-life balance, so finding the right workplace is key.
