Internships in Japan

Internships in Japan
Published on: 16 May 2025
Updated on: 16 May 2025

Internships in Japan 

Many of you may be fascinated by Japan but have you ever thought about work and travel in Japan? Indeed, the country is renowned for its quality for its precision and innovation. Some of Japan’s biggest companies are also world leaders in fields such as electronics, AI, and renewable energies. 

But Japan is also hosting unique and diversified wildlife offering magical scenery. The country offers a perfect blend of cutting-edge innovation, deep respect for ancestral traditions and natural beauty.

 

What are the main industries for internships in Japan?

Technologies and It

Japan is a major player in the global AI race and has been working for many years with advanced technologies, making it one of the most automated countries in the world. 

As industries continue to expand, Tokyo has become a hub for international companies and innovation, creating numerous internship opportunities. Startups are also offering placements, particularly in fields like software development and cybersecurity.

 

Engineering

Japan also has a strong engineering heritage, rooted in its manufacturing background. Industries such as automotive, construction, and energy are reinventing themselves to align with a more sustainable future. 

These sectors remain highly competitive and offer internships across a wide range of technical specialties. The country is investing heavily in green energy and eco-friendly urban development. 

Past natural disasters have significantly influenced how cities are designed and you could be part of this transformation.

 

Research and innovation

In Japan, it’s not just about progress, it’s also about purpose. In line with global sustainability goals, the country is aiming to become carbon neutral by 2050. 

These ambitions are reflected in research and development, where many topics are being explored, offering opportunities for students to find something they’re truly passionate about. 

Tsukuba Science City, one of Japan’s leading research hubs, regularly welcomes international students for internships to help them grow their knowledge and bring fresh perspectives on ongoing projects.

 

Impactful internships

There are many internship opportunities in Japan, and some of them allow you to contribute to meaningful projects that benefit both the environment and local communities. 

Japan is home to rich biodiversity and unique traditions, both of which deserve protection. As a biodiversity hotspot, the country hosts a wide range of endemic species, but it has also lost over 70% of its original vegetation. In response, the Japanese government is making significant efforts to preserve ecosystems, particularly through the development and protection of national parks.

 

Main locations in Japan

Rural location

Called Inaka, exploring rural locations could be a great idea to make your own and different idea of Japan and take the opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience deep immersion in Japanese traditions. 

Prefectures such as Hokkaidō, Nagano or Tottori are home to a unique fauna and flora, offering spectacular landscapes and a complete change of scenery. This wildlife is subject to many protection projects to avoid the disparage of some endemic species. The country is also rich in regions with distinct identities, each carrying a strong historical and cultural heritage, where customs and traditions remain deeply rooted in local communities.

 

Tokyo

The biggest Japanese city is also known for being one of the safest and cleanest in the country. Discover a city full of contrasts  vibrant, modern, and innovative, yet also deeply rooted in tradition, offering peace and serenity at every corner. 

Opportunities are endless, and Japanese culture will never leave you indifferent. This city is constantly evolving, growing, adapting, and living; you'll never get bored exploring the hidden treasures of this megacity. 

Tokyo has also become Asia’s most important stock exchange hub, attracting major multinational companies and offering an increasing number of job opportunities for international people seeking a new professional environment.

 

Kyoto

While Tokyo lives and evolves continuously, one city feels suspended in time: Kyoto.

It is the Japanese city with the highest number of temples and shrines, where tradition is preserved in every corner of the metropolis. 

Not only is the traditional architecture protected from the passage of time, but crafts, ceremonies, and worship practices also remain an integral part of Kyoto’s society. However, Kyoto is still a major player in industries such as technology, gaming or tourism. 

 

Internships in Tokyo

Tokyo is the economic and cultural center of Japan and has a worldwide influence. So, doing an internship there is the great idea to improve your network and meet new people and opportunities.

In architecture, Japan is renowned around the world for its authenticity, simplicity and use of natural materials. The mix of traditional technique of construction and modern commodities create a unique urban use of the space that many architecture students from all over want to inspire. 

But there is many others popular internships for international students in Tokyo such as:

  • Advertising, communication and marketing 
  • Banking and financial sectors 
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Technologies and computer science 
  • International business and relation

 

Japanese companies often have markedly different policies, corporate cultures, and ways of delivering services, which are relevant across all types of training and business sectors.

 

Work culture in Japan

Language

Japan uses what they called “Keigo” which typically means very formal and polite language, to maintain social harmony within the company, avoiding conflict and disagreement. As they are usually very attached to process and hierarchy, it could be frowned upon to express a different opinion directly to your superior. Showing respect for associates and clients is a central point of Japanese language culture. 

 

Etiquette

As a good employe or intern Japan have codes that will dictate your day-to-day including:

  • strict, dark and very formal dress codes
  • strict punctuality
  • humility and respect for colleagues and clients 
  • being discreet
  • being invited to do things and not the contrary 

 

Those are examples of etiquettes that will be followed by every person willing to work in Japan.

Cost of living 

In Japan salaries usually evolve slowly and young employees often live a simple life especially in big cities, where they normally share a house to reduce costs. Japanese tend to favor comfort and stability over fast progression. BIg companies prefer seniority and inflexible contracts over performance and fast promotion. 

 

Gap year in Japan

Choosing a gap year can also be the perfect opportunity to explore Japan and immerse yourself in its culture. 

A gap year allows you to combine different projects and take the time to discover new possibilities. 

There are multiple ways to spend your gap year, but you will certainly develop or strengthen skills in fields that are relevant to you. Being immersed in an international environment is a valuable step in preparing for your future career, no matter which field you want to work in.

 

Programs in Japan by RealStep

Ecology Internship in Japan

Engage yourself in a sustainable tourism internship in Japan to work in some of the most exclusive atmospheres. This ecotourism internship is the perfect opportunity to explore differently the natural wealth of the country while boosting your English and even Japanese or other competences such as digital communication for exemple. 

More information over here!

 

Conservation Internship in Japan

Our animal health internship with black bears program allows you to work up close to black bears in their natural habitats. You will be helping the local team to keep the bears out of the city and the dangers linked to human consumption.

And at the same time, raising the awareness of the local population about the presence and the importance of bears in the Japanese ecosystems.

More information over here!

 

Animal Internship in Japan 

Join our sea turtle conservation internship in Okinawa  programs if you want to contribute to the saving of an endangered species by participating in hatching sessions, night patrol or beach clean-up. The objective is to allow turtles to lay their eggs in better conditions. This internship in Okinawa gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture while having a lasting impact on wildlife diversity.

More information over here!

 

Study and Work in Japan

This study and work program aims to allow you to work and stay for one year in Japan by having real local support. Having an international immersion is the guarantee to improve your English and your knowledge in the field of your choice. This program aims to get you a remuneration to finance your travel, discoveries and other miscellaneous projects.

More information over here!

 

FAQs

Can international students apply for internships in Japan?

Of course, international students could apply for internships in Japan depending on their competences and fields of action. In collaboration with local partners we will be able to propose different opportunities for English speakers.

 

What is the monthly budget for students in Japan? 

Most guides recommend a monthly budget of around ¥200,000 (approximately €1,200) to live in big cities such as Kyoto, Nagoya, or Yokohama. While rural areas are usually slightly cheaper, the difference is not very significant. However, Tokyo is known for its high cost of living, and a monthly budget of around ¥300,000 (about €1,800) is often necessary.

 

Do I need to speak Japanese to do an internship in Japan?

Most of the jobs in Japan used to be in japanese but more and more multinational companies create english speaking offers and international opportunities in Japan get more common. Our programs  help you find opportunities in english that favor your integration and allow more people to immerse in Japanese culture.

 

Do I need special competences to participate ? 

Only motivation is required, those programs will expect from you implication and participation but not a particular formation or competences. A certain English speaking level will also be necessary to assure a good communication with the local structure. A non-conventional internship if your objective is not included in your studies.  

 

Can I stay in Japan after the end of my internship ? 

As long as your visa is still currently valid you can stay and enjoy the different resources of Japan. For visa options and information we invite you to find out more on the government website of your country. 

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