Hotel jobs in Japan are expanding rapidly, creating a high demand for skilled hospitality professionals.
If you are looking for hotel jobs in Japan for foreigners, this is the ideal time to enter the field.
Industry Overview
Japan consistently ranks as one of the most visited countries in the world, with over 30 million tourists arriving annually before the pandemic.
The hospitality sector is struggling to fill vacant positions, increasing the number of available hotel jobs in Tokyo and other major cities.
Hotels are investing in foreign talent, offering language support, housing discounts, and work visas.
Those interested in hotel jobs abroad will find Japan to be one of the most attractive destinations due to its strong economy and competitive salaries.
Benefits
The industry provides stable earnings, competitive salaries, and long-term career opportunities.
Many hotels offer discounts on accommodation, meal allowances, and annual bonuses, making it financially attractive.
Some even provide hotel jobs abroad with free visa and tickets, making relocation easier for qualified applicants.
Main Japanese Hotels
Japan has a diverse range of hotel chains catering to different markets. Each category has its own hiring needs and salary structures.
Luxury Hotels
Luxury hotels prioritize high salaries and advanced training programs, making them an excellent choice for experienced professionals.
- Imperial Hotel: A historic five-star hotel offering world-class service.
- Hotel New Otani: A prestigious hotel with locations in Tokyo and Osaka.
- The Okura Tokyo: A high-end hotel known for its sophisticated accommodations.
Business Hotels
Business hotels provide stable earnings and hire many foreign workers for front desk and housekeeping roles.
- APA Hotels: Affordable business hotels with locations across Japan.
- Dormy Inn: Mid-range hotels offering comfortable stays and amenities.
- Toyoko Inn: A budget-friendly hotel chain popular with domestic travelers.
Ryokan (Traditional Inns)
Ryokans require staff with strong customer service skills and often provide on-the-job training. Some also offer free accommodations.
- Hoshinoya: A luxury ryokan blending tradition with modern comfort.
- Nishimuraya: A historic ryokan specializing in Japanese hospitality.
- Gora Kadan: A high-end onsen resort in Hakone.
International Chains in Japan
International hotel chains are the best option for those seeking relocation assistance.
- Hilton Tokyo: A globally recognized hotel with opportunities for foreigners.
- Marriott International: Known for hiring multilingual staff.
- Hyatt Regency: A luxury chain with diverse job openings.
Types of Hotel Jobs in Japan
There are many career paths in Japan’s hotel industry, each with different salary expectations and responsibilities.
Front Desk & Concierge
- Handles guest check-ins, room bookings, and concierge services.
- Requires Japanese language skills and customer service experience.
- Offers monthly salaries between ¥200,000–¥280,000.
Housekeeping & Maintenance
- Responsible for room cleaning and facility upkeep.
- Housekeeping jobs offer steady earnings with minimal experience required.
- Salaries range from ¥180,000–¥250,000 per month.
Food & Beverage
- Jobs include waiters, bartenders, and chefs.
- Higher wages for experienced chefs in fine dining.
- Many positions provide free meals and employee discounts.
- Monthly wages range from ¥190,000–¥270,000.
Management & Administration
- Includes roles in human resources, finance, and marketing.
- Higher salaries for experienced professionals.
- Monthly earnings range from ¥300,000–¥600,000.
Requirements & Qualifications
Following these will increase your chances of getting a hotel job in Japan.
Language
Most hotel jobs in Japan for foreigners require at least basic Japanese skills.
Some international chains hire English-speaking staff, but conversational Japanese is a significant advantage.
- Most hotel jobs require at least basic Japanese proficiency (N4-N3 on the JLPT).
- Customer-facing roles need conversational Japanese (N3-N2), while some back-end jobs accept English speakers.
- Free resources:Duolingo, NHK Easy Japanese, JLPT prep books.
Education & Certifications
A degree in hospitality management is preferred for higher-paying roles. Culinary jobs may require a chef’s certificate.
- Hospitality Schools: Tsuji Culinary Institute (Osaka), Le Cordon Bleu Tokyo.
- Online Courses: Coursera, edX (Hospitality Management courses).
- Many hotels offer on-the-job training for entry-level positions.
Work Visa & Eligibility
Many hotels sponsor work visas for skilled employees. Working holiday visas allow young foreigners to work for short periods.
- Japan Immigration Office: Apply for Work Visa (Humanities/International Services) or Specified Skilled Worker Visa (SSW).
- Recruitment Agencies: Workport, Hello Work, and Nihon Agent help with job placements and visa applications.
How to Apply
There are four main options to apply for hotel jobs in Japan, each with different steps.
Option 1: Apply Through Online Job Portals
Best for: Foreigners applying from abroad.
- Search for Jobs – Use job sites like GaijinPot, Rikunabi, Indeed Japan, and Jobs in Japan.
- Create a Japanese Resume – Format it in Rirekisho (Japanese resume format).
- Submit Applications – Apply to multiple hotels that offer work visa sponsorship.
- Attend Interviews – Some may be online, others in person.
- Sign Contract & Apply for Visa – Once hired, the employer sponsors your work visa.
Option 2: Apply Through Recruitment Agencies
Best for: Those needing job placement support and visa help.
- Register with Agencies – Use Pasona Global, Daijob, Workport, and Nihon Agent.
- Submit Your Resume & Preferences – Specify job type, location (Tokyo, Osaka, etc.), and salary expectations.
- Attend Screening & Interviews – Agencies match you with suitable employers.
- Get a Job Offer – If selected, sign the contract.
Option 3: Direct Applications to Hotel Websites
Best for: Applying to major hotel chains.
- Visit Hotel Career Pages – Check jobs on Hilton Tokyo, Marriott Japan, Hyatt Regency, and Imperial Hotel websites.
- Apply Online – Follow their recruitment process and submit the required documents.
- Prepare for Interviews – Expect a mix of Japanese and English questions.
- Visa Processing – If selected, the hotel applies for your work visa.
Option 4: Apply While in Japan (Hello Work & Networking)
Best for: Those already in Japan (student visa, working holiday visa, etc.).
- Visit Hello Work (Government Job Center) – Offices in Tokyo, Osaka, and all major cities.
- Check Walk-in Interviews – Some hotels hire immediately.
- Network with Hotel Recruiters – Attend career fairs, LinkedIn events, and industry meetups.
- Apply & Interview – Direct interviews may lead to faster hiring.
- Convert Visa (If Needed) – Some jobs may allow a visa status change to a work visa.
Conclusion: Hotel Jobs in Japan Today
Japan’s hotel industry is growing, offering stable earnings and career opportunities. Many hotels provide job sponsorships, housing discounts, and other perks.
Japan is a top destination if you are searching for hotel jobs near me or considering hotel jobs abroad.
Start your application today and take the first step toward a successful career in Japan’s hospitality industry.
