5 Books to Better Understand Japanese Work Culture blog.gaijinpot.com

Japanese work culture can be many things: diplomatic, hierarchical, conformist, machine-like, even suffocating. Globally, Japan is known for its hard-working salarymen who work long hours for recognition from the company and little extra pay. Often, they put their jobs before family, friends, and much-needed sleep!

Negative stories about Japan’s work-culture are taboo because they go against the country’s narrative of a strong work ethic. But you can look to these Japanese novels to learn what it can be like to work for a Japanese company.

These workplace protagonists come from all walks of life, from traditional white-collar salarymen to quirky part-time convenience store workers and blue-eyed foreigners. Here are five of the best five books to better understand the Japanese work culture.