Internships Abroad in Japan

Set Goals

Setting clear goals for your internship in Japan will give you the most out of your experience and help you gain valuable skills. Consider what you aim to achieve, some examples are:

• Improve language proficiency and cultural understanding. Take the time to learn about Japan’s history, culture, and present-day outside of the internship.
• Focus on and hone a skill that is important to your professional development.
• Take the time to develop relationships and network while working on being a reliable employee.
• Research and develop skills that are highly valued in a global job market both locally and globally.

Understand the Benefits

Interning in Japan offers numerous benefits! Here are a few professional takeaways—don’t forget there are plenty of others outside of work, too!

• Exciting new ways of operations. Exposure to advanced technology and innovation in most fields.
• Professional culture. Gain hands-on experience in a highly regarded professional-oriented country.
• Networking in larger markets. With a larger economy, there are more connections to make.
• Build your resume or portfolio. Enhance your professional standing and skills with international experience.

Things to know

No matter what you do in Japan, there are a few things that anyone traveling there should be aware of! Some of the most common are:

• Language
  A basic understanding of Japanese is helpful for deeper connections with the company, the culture, and the people, making your experience more rewarding.
• Cultural Etiquette
  Familiarity with Japanese business and social etiquette helps you stand out. Taking plenty of notes during meetings, for instance, shows interest and professionalism.
• Visa Requirements
  Make sure you have the correct visa for your internship. This may require a re-entry permit, and don’t forget to look into health insurance and other essential documentation.
• Living Costs
  Living in major cities can be expensive, so budget carefully or consider a paid internship. Rural areas are often cheaper but may lack certain amenities; financial aid options, such as those from GoAbroad, can also help.