Live & Work in Japan

Although Japan's economy has been seen to falter in recent years it is still one of the most prosperous countries in the world, with a GDP second only to that of the United States. Younger Japanese people may be less insular than their parents yet the country remains largely unwesternized so it is essential that anyone wishing to live and work there, even if only for a short while, should understand a little of the Japanese way of life before they go. This second edition of the highly respected Live & Work in Japan is a complete guide for anyone planning to spend some time working in this fascinating country. The section on working in Japan covers recruitment agencies and the other ways of finding jobs, the many opportunities for teaching English as a foreign language, the status of foreign employees, salaries, benefits and perks, working hours and conditions, and women in work. It also explains how to start a business there for the prospective entrepreneur, with ideas for new businesses and advice on buying an existing business and on how to do business with the Japanese. The section on living in Japan covers everything from the visa, residence, and work permits needed to enter the country to finding accommodation and essential information on aspects of daily life including the Japanese language and how to learn it, taxation, the health system, social life, education, social welfare, the status of women, and, most importantly, etiquette. This is illustrated with first-hand case histories of people who have already lived and worked in Japan. This is a must read book for anyone thinking about going to live and work in Japan.