3 Reasons why IT engineers should consider working in Japan
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”
Dalai Lama
In this case, Dalai Lama would say “Choose a job and a place you love”. It’s hard to prove him wrong!
Everyone knows Japan for its intriguing culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food…
but there’s much more to discover!
Let’s find out what Japan offers us, and what makes him an appealing country!
INTRODUCTION
Japan is one of the most tech-forward countries in the world, and it’s no surprise that the fields of web and software engineering are rapidly expanding.
However, Japan is currently struggling to meet the growing demand for technological advancement.
With a rapidly aging population and a shortage of skilled IT professionals, Japan presents a unique opportunity for foreign IT engineers to make a significant impact.
The strong demand for IT professionals translates into several job opportunities and potentially more attractive compensation packages for foreign software developers and other IT experts.
Based on these numbers Japan, ranked as the 12th most populous country globally (Worldometer, 2024), stands out as a major economic powerhouse.
To provide a better overview of the Japanese market, it is important to have a look at some key numbers:
- The Japan IT services market size was valued at USD 70.22 billion in 2023 (GVR, 2023).
- It is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8% from 2024 to 2030 (GVR, 2023).
- AI & machine learning segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023.
- The big data analytics segment is predicted to foresee significant growth through 2033.
- Japan has one of the lowest unemployment rates worldwide, 2.58% in 2023 (Statista, 2024).
As an emerging market can act like a magnet for foreign investments, Japan raises job seekers` interest:
Foreigners are more aware of its opportunities and how it can affect their career growth.
Time is a luxury today, so let’s dive into the top benefits of working in Japan for foreign IT engineers:
Exceptional Career Opportunities, Cutting-Edge Technology, and a High Quality of Life.
1. Exceptional Career Opportunities
The majority of IT engineers have struggled a lot during university to get a better job in the future, and the hope to grow both from a professional and personal point of view is something that has crossed their minds, for sure.
Japan is not only the land of the rising sun, it’s now positioning itself as the “Land of the Rising Opportunities”.
Mt. Fuji and Chureito Pagoda
Based on research conducted by Interac in 2024, the IT industry has some of the best-paying jobs in Japan.
Specifically, there’s a unique mix of IT skill shortages and an average population of 49.4 years old (Worldometer, 2024).
As a consequence, the salaries are competitive, however, though they may be lower compared to those in the US and certain European countries.
With an exception: foreign software engineers generally earn higher salaries than their Japanese counterparts (Cogs, 2022).
According to a report by Robert Walters Japan (2023), foreign IT professionals can expect salaries up to 20% higher than local averages due to their specialized skills and international experience.
The percentage of foreigners in the industry has increased over the last 5 years, but there’s still so much space to cover.
Companies are now looking for more skilled talents, even if their Japanese proficiency is not high. Many companies offer language training and cultural integration programs to help foreign employees adapt more easily.
2. Cutting-Edge Technology
A recent article published by METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) supports Japanese companies in investing tons of money in Research & Development, by prioritizing innovation. It`s a necessary source of growth, which can lead companies to have a positive impact both on their turnover as well as on employees’ lives in the long run.
For that reason, Japan decided to adopt a cross-institute approach: based on the assumption that innovation and technologies are two milestones of the Japanese economy, a commitment by several institutes is required. In detail, NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) and AIST (National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology) are involved. Their role is to define a plan addressed to tech companies to be compliant with tax systems, law, and standardization.
As proof of its willingness to be one of the most attractive countries for Tech workers, Japan aims to offer a 360-degree experience. Efforts are underway to move forward with digital transformation (DX) and the restructuring of adaptable supply chains, in response to evolving consumer needs driven by new lifestyle changes in the anticipated post-pandemic era. A lot of investments in infrastructure and transportation have been approved, and communications are faster (Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, 2023).
Japan is also a global leader in robotics, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. The country invests heavily in these sectors, offering IT professionals the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to change the world.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) has been advancing international expansion in diverse areas such as ICT (Information and Communication Technology), postal services, fire safety, statistics, and administrative consultation systems. These efforts contribute to addressing global challenges and support the overseas growth of Japanese businesses, while also revitalizing both national and regional economies in Japan.
Japan has been open to signing international Cooperation pacts on technology and science, since the Meiji Era. As a sign of this, Japan drafted the Overseas Expansion Action Plan 2025.
The main goal is to intensify investments to develop next-generation information and communications infrastructure, known as Beyond 5G (alias 6G). In this context, the MIC has been strengthening international collaborative research efforts to advance Beyond 5G, including initiating joint R&D projects with the U.S. and other countries.
3. High Quality of Life
The idea of Japan as a country in which the work-life balance is just a mirage no longer exists. The average amount of working hours is 40/week, much less compared to the past (Japanese Labor Standard Act). There are serious restrictions even for overtime hours, which can not exceed 45 hours monthly (art. 36 Labor Standard Act).
In the last decade the idea of the workplace as a “second home” became predominant. The office literally changed his face… from a room in which employees overwork to a safe place where collaboration and teamwork are the core pillars. Initiatives like “Premium Friday,” where employees can leave early on the last Friday of the month, have been introduced to promote better work-life balance. Karoshi (a Japanese word that means “working to death”) has been abandoned in favor of a more “stable and enjoyable” life.
An example of that…
Japanese tech companies have adopted a mix between the Western approach to work (remote) and the Japanese traditional mindset (punctuality).
In this way, employees can focus more on job commitments and be more efficient in the available hours. After that, they can charge their batteries by spending some time with their families or hanging out with colleagues (Nomikai).
To conclude, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world (9th according to the Global Peace Index). The result is measured on factors including the country’s crime rate, levels of violence and protests, access to weapons, political stability, military spending, relationships with neighboring countries, and other relevant indicators.
Last but not least…
Based on research conducted by the International Financial Center (2023), the cost of living (Rent, Eating Out, Utilities, New Car, Schools) is lower compared to other world capitals (Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, London). Thanks to Japanese government initiatives, such as tax cuts to allay small and medium-sized businesses’ cash flow problems, locals and foreigners are able to live with a growing economy that has their backs.
As an added bonus, Japan’s public transportation system is second to none—efficient, reliable, and a breeze to navigate. This means less time stressing over commutes and more time to soak in everything this amazing country has to offer. And let’s not forget about the healthcare system—it’s top-notch! High-quality medical services are accessible at reasonable costs, ensuring that both locals and foreigners can live with peace of mind.
CONCLUSION
In the end, while Japan may be on the other side of the globe, it’s a treasure of opportunities for foreign IT engineers. The outstanding job offers and a long-term vision contribute to raising foreigners` attention towards a country which has always been seen as a land of tourism, not for work.
Its blend of robust economic growth, strategic international collaborations, and a supportive work-life balance underscore its position as a lighthouse for IT engineers.
With its booming tech industry, vibrant culture, and exciting career prospects, Japan is not just a distant dream—it’s a concrete career path.
