Labor shortage in Japan and what that means for you Part 4: Japan’s growing job-hopping trend
For decades, Japan’s labor market was defined by stability. Workers joined companies straight out of school and often stayed until retirement. But as the accompanying graph shows, that era is fading, and fast.
From 2013 to 2019, the number of workers changing employers each year steadily increased, peaking at around 3.5 million. Although the pandemic years saw a temporary dip, the trend has resumed, with job-hopping numbers climbing again in 2022 and 2023.
This shift is happening in parallel with Japan’s deepening labor shortage. As the population ages and birth rates decline, companies are struggling to fill roles. At the same time, younger workers are increasingly willing to leave jobs that don’t meet their expectations for growth, flexibility, or purpose.
Why Are More Japanese Workers Job-Hopping?
Changing Values: Younger generations are less tied to traditional notions of loyalty and more focused on personal development.
Workplace Evolution: Remote work, digital tools, and global exposure have made career mobility more accessible.
Frustration with Hierarchy: Many workers feel stifled by rigid corporate structures and are seeking environments that value their input.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
In a tight labor market, retaining talent is just as important as recruiting it. Employers must rethink how they engage, develop, and support their teams. That means:
Creating clear career paths
Offering flexible work arrangements
Fostering inclusive, communicative cultures
Recognizing and adapting to generational and cultural shifts
Whether you're an HR manager, or business owner, understanding Japan’s evolving employment landscape is key. Job-hopping is no longer a red flag—it’s a reflection of a changing economy. The companies that thrive will be those that embrace this change and build workplaces people want to stay in.
What does this mean for you?
If you are interested in working for a Japanese company abroad or in Japan itself, and especially if you speak some Japanese, this means you have better prospects than ever before. If you want to prepare for such a job, why not get some additional training!
Want to know more? At Japan Consulting Office, we specialize in equipping professionals to thrive in cross-cultural environments. Whether you’re looking for group training or one-on-one sessions, we’ve got you covered!
If you want to learn more about bridging language and cultural gaps in Japanese business, why not join one of our sessions! Here’s the link to upcoming sessions (make sure to select your timezone
