Doing a Part-time Job in Osaka, Japan

"Doing a part-time job is very common among students in Japan"

Almost every student in Japan has experience working as a part-timer, no matter their social status or financial ability. There are many benefits to working part-time, such as gaining work experience, expanding one's circle and network, and also receiving additional income. A couple of months ago, after arriving in Japan, I collected information about part-time jobs from my classmates and church members. Most of them suggested I work at a convenience store, such as Family Mart and Lawson – common modern markets in Japan.

Photo 1. Taking a selfie photo with my co-worker from Sri Lanka after a long day work at a restaurant in Osaka.

As I knew, if one of you wants to get a part-time job in a convenience store, at least you have to know basic Japanese common phrases for daily conversations and basic kanji words – some employers require applicants to show their JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) certificate to prove their Japanese language skills. Because my Japanese language was not good enough, I needed to find a job that would not require me to speak often. After some time looking for a part-time job, my friend offered me a job at a hotel as a bed-keeper – located near Universal Studios in Osaka.

I made an appointment with one staffer to meet him in the early morning. After a brief talk, he accepted me to work at that hotel. I worked there for around three months and chose to leave because I had one important reason. Less than one month after my resignation, one bureau on my campus introduced me to a student who worked at a German-Japanese Bar Restaurant. He helped me to work there by convincing the owner and helping me to fill out the job application in Japanese. The location is near Umeda Station. In total, I worked there until I graduated from my campus. This work experience was really valuable and memorable that has enriched my life.

Here are some key points about my experience as a part-time worker in Japan:

1. Speaking and writing in the Japanese language is mandatory,

2. For a newcomer, you might get a low wage for three to four weeks,

3. Monthly enkai (party) among workers is important to be closer with other members,

4. Senpai (senior) is a title for an experienced person. Kohai (junior) is often labeled for newcomers,

5. There are many strict rules about part-time jobs for foreigners. One important rule is that they are not allowed to work more than 28 hours/week, and

6. Always bringing a small notebook and a pen is important because it will help you note new Japanese phrases or words, especially Kanji.

Ultimately, there is a proverb that says, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” I encountered new work ethics that I had never known in Indonesia, such as honoring daily routines, making improvements from small things, and respecting seniors. Also, your knowledge, curiosity, and appreciation of Japanese culture and environment will help you to be smoothly immersed in Japanese society.