When applying for jobs in Japan, submitting a properly formatted Japanese resume (履歴書 – rirekisho) is essential. Unlike Western resumes that highlight achievements and creativity, the Japanese resume format follows a strict structure with standardized sections. Understanding this format shows respect for Japanese workplace culture, improves your professional image, and increases your chances of getting shortlisted.
If you're planning to work in Japan or apply to Japanese companies in India, learning how to prepare a professional rirekisho is just as important as improving your language skills.
Learn more in our MEXT Scholarship Indian Students Japan Guide: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/mext-scholarship-indian-students-japan-guide/
A Japanese resume, known as a rirekisho (履歴書), is the standard document used when applying for jobs in Japan. Unlike Western-style resumes that emphasize achievements and personal branding, a rirekisho highlights accurate personal details, a clear chronological timeline, and a formal, structured layout.
Japanese employers value consistency and professionalism, so most applicants use a pre-designed rirekisho template, which is easily available online or at stationery stores in Japan. Following this format shows that you understand Japanese workplace expectations and business etiquette, a key factor in making a strong first impression.
Now that you understand what a rirekisho is, let’s break down the key components of the Japanese resume format and what each section should include.
This section includes your basic identification details:
Purpose: Helps employers quickly identify and contact you.
Explore our NAT Japanese Test Coaching insights: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/nat-japanese-test-coaching/
A passport-style professional photo is mandatory.
Tip: A neat, professional photo reflects seriousness and respect for Japanese hiring customs.
List your academic background in chronological order, starting from high school.
Include:
Learn respectful speech in our Japanese Honorifics Guide: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/japanese-honorifics-guide/
Your employment history should also be in chronological order.
For each job, include:
Japanese resumes focus more on career stability and role clarity than long achievement lists.
Mention all relevant qualifications, such as:
Check fees in our Japanese N5 Course Fees in Delhi post: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/japanese-n5-course-fees-in-delhi/
This is one of the most important sections.
A short paragraph describing your:
Explain:
Employers evaluate your cultural fit, attitude, and communication ability here.
Check the schedule in our JLPT Exam Date 2026 post: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/jlpt-exam-date-2026/
This shows your practical readiness to join the company.
Using formal and polite expressions in your rirekisho adds a professional touch and shows respect for Japanese business culture. Here are some commonly used phrases you can include in different sections of your Japanese resume:
| Japanese Phrase | Meaning |
| ○○大学 卒業 (○○だいがく そつぎょう) | Graduated from ○○ University |
| ○○会社に入社 (○○かいしゃ に にゅうしゃ) | Joined ○○ Company |
| 一身上の都合により退職 (いっしんじょう の つごう により たいしょく) | Resigned due to personal reasons |
| ○○に貢献したいと考えております (○○ に こうけん したい と かんがえて おります) | I would like to contribute to ○○ |
| 日本語能力試験N2取得 (にほんご のうりょく しけん N2 しゅとく) | Obtained JLPT N2 Certification |
These phrases help your Japanese resume sound natural, respectful, and aligned with employer expectations in Japan.
Discover top training in our Trusted Japanese Language Institute in Delhi for JLPT post: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/trusted-japanese-language-institute-in-delhi-for-jlpt/
Using the correct Japanese resume format (rirekisho) isn’t just about a neat presentation, it shows that you understand and respect Japanese workplace culture. Here’s why it makes a real difference:
1. Standardization
Japanese resumes follow a uniform structure, making it easier for employers to compare candidates fairly and efficiently.
2. Professionalism
A properly formatted rirekisho reflects your attention to detail and respect for Japanese business etiquette, both highly valued traits in the workplace.
3. Strong First Impression
Before you even attend an interview, your resume speaks for you. A clear, well-organized rirekisho increases your chances of moving to the next stage.
4. Cultural Expectations
Japanese employers expect specific sections and formal language. Missing key details can make your application seem incomplete or careless.
5. Easy Evaluation
Recruiters often review many applications quickly. A structured resume helps them understand your education, experience, and qualifications at a glance.
Following the standard rirekisho format shows that you’re not only qualified you’re also prepared to work in a professional Japanese environment.
Get help with visas in our Japan Visa Assistance for Students guide: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/japan-visa-assistance-for-students/
Dreaming of building a career in Japan? Strong Japanese language skills and a solid understanding of workplace culture can make all the difference. That’s where TLS – The Japanese Language School in Delhi helps you stand out.
At TLS, students receive practical, career-focused training, including:
Whether you're aiming to study, work, or settle in Japan, TLS provides the language foundation and career support you need to succeed.
Visit Us
2/81-82, 2nd Floor, Lalita Park, Gali No - 2, Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi - 110092
Call Us
+91 8700956038
Email Us
tls@teamlanguages.com
Learn how to apply in our MEXT Scholarship 2026 Application Process guide: https://www.japaneselanguageclasses.com/blog/mext-scholarship-2026-application-process/
1. What is the difference between a rirekisho and a Western resume?
A rirekisho follows a fixed, formal structure and focuses on factual information like education, work history, and personal details. Western resumes are more flexible and highlight achievements, skills, and personal branding.
2. Is a photo mandatory on a Japanese resume?
Yes. A professional passport-style photo is a standard requirement and should show you in formal attire with a neat appearance.
3. Can foreigners use a rirekisho format?
Absolutely. In fact, using the correct Japanese resume format is highly recommended when applying to Japanese companies, as it shows cultural awareness and professionalism.
4. Should a Japanese resume be handwritten?
Handwritten resumes were once preferred, but today typed resumes are widely accepted especially in international companies, IT firms, and modern workplaces.
5. What is the most important section in a rirekisho?
The Self-Promotion (自己PR) and Motivation (志望動機) sections are extremely important. Employers use them to understand your personality, strengths, and reasons for applying.
6. How long should a Japanese resume be?
Most rirekisho are 1–2 pages long, following the standard template format.
7. Do I need Japanese language certification?
While not always mandatory, having a JLPT certification (N3–N1) significantly improves your job prospects and proves your language ability.
8. Can a language school help with job preparation?
Yes. Institutes like TLS – The Japanese Language School offer resume writing guidance, interview training, and business Japanese lessons to prepare students for working in Japan.
9. Should I include part-time jobs or internships?
Yes, especially if they are relevant to the job you’re applying for. They show work experience, responsibility, and skill development.
10. How do I explain a gap in my employment history?
You can briefly mention the reason in a neutral, professional way, such as further studies, skill development, or personal circumstances.
11. Is it necessary to write my name in kanji?
If you have a registered kanji version of your name, you can use it. Otherwise, write your name in katakana or romaji clearly and consistently.
12. Can I customize my rirekisho for different jobs?
The format usually stays the same, but you can tailor your 志望動機 (motivation) and 自己PR (self-promotion) sections to match the company and role.
13. What should I avoid in a Japanese resume?
Avoid informal language, exaggerated claims, decorative designs, or missing sections. Keep the layout clean, formal, and easy to read.
14. Do Japanese resumes include references?
References are not typically listed on a rirekisho unless specifically requested by the employer.
15. How can I improve my chances of getting hired in Japan?
Along with a well-prepared rirekisho, strong Japanese language skills, JLPT certification, and interview preparation are key. Training at institutes like TLS – The Japanese Language School can help you build these skills effectively.
Mastering the Japanese resume format is your first step toward building a successful career in Japan. Combine the right structure, formal language, and strong Japanese skills to stand out professionally.
