The idea of living in Japan is attractive to many because it offers adventure, career advancement, and a high standard of living. However, one of the main challenges many expats face is navigating the job market without having Japanese business language skills to start. But there is good news! Some industries need foreign talent, and many positions don’t require fluency in Japanese. If you’re considering starting a career abroad, here are five jobs in Japan with no Japanese skills required.
1. Recruitment
Being a recruiter is one of the most accessible entry level jobs for non-Japanese speakers in Japan. Many international companies operate recruitment agencies that place bilingual or English-speaking professionals into various roles. In a career as a recruiter, the responsibilities might include sourcing candidates, managing interviews, and negotiating job offers. Communication skills, sales experience, and industry knowledge are critical, but fluency in Japanese is often not a requirement.
Major recruitment firms in Japan frequently advertise positions for English-speaking consultants on professional networking sites like LinkedIn. These companies usually offer extensive training, making recruitment an ideal field for those without previous career experience and those looking for jobs in Japan with no Japanese.
2. Overseas Sales
Overseas sales positions are perfect for expats with business experience and a global mindset. These roles usually involve connecting Japanese companies with international markets, handling export negotiations, and managing relationships with overseas clients. Since the focus is on communication with non-Japanese-speaking clients, fluency in English or another foreign language is often the primary requirement.
For example, Japanese manufacturing and technology companies often hire overseas sales representatives to expand their international presence. Check popular Japanese job boards to find overseas sales jobs in Japan with no Japanese needed.
3. Teaching a Foreign Language
Teaching remains one of the most popular career choices for foreigners looking to get their start in Japan, especially for native English speakers. Japanese schools, private language institutions, and eikaiwa (English conversation schools) need native English speakers to teach children and adults.
You don’t need to speak Japanese to excel at teaching a foreign language in Japan. Many programs, like the JET Programme, and other private institutions provide training and resources to help you adapt to the classroom environment.
While a teaching qualification isn’t always a requirement for employment, holding a TEFL certification can increase your chances of getting hired, and earning potential. For those with a passion for education, teaching English, or another language like French, Spanish, or Portuguese is one of the most accessible jobs in Japan with no Japanese language requirement. Often employers can sponsor visas for workers applying from abroad. This makes teaching a great way to get your foot in the door and start a career in the country.
4. Information technology
The IT (information technology) industry in Japan has a growing demand for skilled workers, and many positions are crafted specifically for English-speaking professionals, from software engineering to web development. While many IT roles in Japan don’t have a language requirement, they often require prior skills and experience. Having worked in the IT field prior, or attending a coding boot camp to gain knowledge and experience will give you higher chances of landing a full-time job in Japan.
One resource for non-Japanese-speaking professionals who want to learn IT skills is the Code Chrysalis boot camp. Based in Tokyo, Code Chrysalis is a coding program that prepares individuals for Japan’s competitive tech industry. The programs at Code Chrysalis are taught in English and emphasize hands-on learning, team projects, and even job placement support. Graduates have gone on to work for top companies in Japan, making this an excellent pathway for aspiring IT professionals.
Whether you’re a seasoned tech expert or looking to change career paths from teaching or other through programs like Code Chrysalis, the IT sector offers some of the most promising jobs in Japan with no Japanese skills needed.
Read more about Code Chrysalis in our article here.
5. Hospitality
The hospitality industry in Japan has become increasingly inclusive of foreign workers, especially in tourist hotspots like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Hotels, resorts, and travel agencies often hire non-Japanese speakers to cater to the growing number of international tourists visiting the country.
In these roles, your primary focus will be assisting English-speaking guests, handling reservations, or guiding tours. While some positions might require basic Japanese for internal communication, many employers prioritize language skills that align with their target clientele.
For instance, luxury hotels like Hilton and Hyatt often list English-speaking roles on their career pages. Additionally, seasonal positions in ski resorts and ryokan (traditional inns) are popular options for expats seeking flexible work arrangements in hospitality.
Can you thrive in Japan without Japanese?
Learning the language can open even more doors and enrich your experience in Japan. Even if some career paths don’t require Japanese skills, navigating day to day life in Japan will be difficult without at least knowing the basics. Taking an online course or attending a language school before starting your career in Japan will help you get ready for tackling tasks outside of work and handling emergencies.
Programs like Code Chrysalis are excellent for jumpstarting your career in industries like IT, while organizations such as Go! Go! Nihon provides resources for navigating life and studying in Japan.
Take the first step toward your dream career in Japan by contacting Go! Go! Nihon. Whether you’re interested in tech, teaching, or learning Japanese, we can help you make the most of your time in Japan.
