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Gap Year and Paid Work in Japan

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Program Overview

The Working Holiday Visa allows you to stay and work in Japan for up to one year. This experience places you in real jobs across Japan, giving you the chance to earn income while gaining international work exposure in one of the most unique and fast-paced countries on earth. Participants are placed in supported, entry-level jobs across sectors, depending on their background and availability. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience, improve your adaptability in a global workplace, and build confidence working in an international environment. Many roles also provide structured support to help you settle into life in Japan, from orientation to day-to-day guidance. Beyond work, this program is about full cultural immersion. Explore vibrant cities like Tokyo and Osaka, discover peaceful temples and mountain towns, try authentic Japanese cuisine, and connect with locals and other international participants.

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Program Highlights

Earn while you live in Japan – Take on a paid role and gain real international work experience.
Full cultural immersion – Experience daily life in Japan beyond tourism, from workplace culture to local traditions.
Guided placement support – Receive assistance with job placement, arrival, and settling into your new environment.
Skill-building abroad – Strengthen adaptability, communication, and global workplace confidence.
Explore Japan on your time off – Discover everything from buzzing cities to peaceful cultural landmarks while living locally.

What's Included

Some Accommodation
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
Language Lessons
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Job Placement

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Tokyo, Japan

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • Japanese
  • English
  • Education
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • Professional degree

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Independent living
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Resume
  • Other

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

  • During College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • After College

Salary & Compensation

The hourly wages for such jobs are about 890 to 1500 Yen/Hour (about 7.40 to 12.40 €). There are full-time and part-time jobs. If you have a higher...

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about RealStep.

How do I get from the airport to the project in Japan

Our local partners in Tokyo arrange airport pick-up at the international airport every Friday. For students enrolled in internships outside the city, instructions for reaching the final destinations will be provided in advance or upon arrival.

Where are participants housed during an internship in Japan?

Either in the main residence in Tokyo, at the internship location when it is remote (natural reserves, for example), or with a host family.

Do I need to speak Japanese to take part?

It depends on the program you choose. For those who want to stay for 1 year on a Working Holiday Visa on projects involving a paid job like this one, it is strongly recommended to take Japanese classes upon arrival (4 weeks of intensive courses) to broaden your job search options.

In fact, most jobs in retail, services, or the hospitality industry require an intermediate level of Japanese.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

aussie specialist
international mobility committee
afnor certification
WYSE LOGO
ICEF Agency Status
EAIE
Certified B Corporation

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