🇯🇵How to Write a Resume for Japan
Japan is one of the few markets that expects two separate documents: the 履歴書 (rirekisho), a standardized personal-history form, and the 職務経歴書 (shokumu keirekisho), a detailed work-history document. The rirekisho follows a fixed template and includes an ID photo, while the shokumu keirekisho is where you actually prove your experience and results. Employers weigh your motivation for applying (志望動機, shibou douki) and your potential for long-term commitment heavily, so a polished, complete pair of documents makes the first impression.
Language
Japanese
Resume conventions
Dual documents: 履歴書 (rirekisho) + 職務経歴書 (career history)
Top job boards
LinkedIn · Wantedly · Green · doda
Format & structure essentials
履歴書 (rirekisho)
A fixed-format form covering name, education, qualifications, and your reason for applying (志望動機), accompanied by an ID photo. Digital submission via standard templates is now common.
職務経歴書 (shokumu keirekisho)
A detailed, role-focused account of your career, projects, and results — this is the document where you demonstrate your actual capability.
Tone
Be precise rather than boastful; polite phrasing and fact-based descriptions build the trust Japanese recruiters look for.
What to emphasize in this market
Common mistakes when applying to Japan
❌ Submitting only the rirekisho and skipping the shokumu keirekisho
✅ The rirekisho alone is not enough — always prepare the 職務経歴書 alongside it to show your real track record.
❌ Writing a generic, boilerplate reason for applying
✅ Spell out why this specific company and this specific role, backed by concrete reasons rather than platitudes.
❌ Ignoring the expected format and polite conventions
✅ Japanese hiring genuinely evaluates presentation — stick to the standard template and a courteous, respectful tone throughout.
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Resume guides by role
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Related free tools & guides
Hiring norms vary by company and over time, so check the employer’s guidance before you apply. For a specific review, try a free AI resume review.