Potential Issues You May Face During an Internship in Japan

Doing an internship in Japan is definitely a culturally enriching experience. Not only are you going to be exposed to different word environments and methods, but also you are going to be learning about Japan and her culture. Japan has some of the most quality conscious and efficient organizations in the business world today. So, you are going to have a memorable experience of an internship with Japanese professionals. However, there are some possible problems you may encounter when doing an internship in Japan.

The most common of these problems is culture shock. You are going to be exposed to an old culture and an extremely rich and varied heritage so different from your own. You are also going to be exposed to different social rules, norms, beliefs and traditions. But once you have got over the initial shock of “this is so different from what we do under such circumstances back home,” you are going to find yourself settling down happily and enjoying a brand-new culture altogether.

Cost of living — the Japanese enjoy a very high standard of living, and that is why you may find yourself shocked at the high prices of commodities (although prices have become much cheaper in the last 10 years). So, you have to take this into consideration, before you decide to go to Japan for your internship.

A possible problem before your internship application goes through is the payment of an enrolment fee in the initial stages. This fee can be anywhere between $50-$500, which may also include the fee for processing of your documents. Some organizations refund this fee, if you are not selected for the internship program. Other organizations don’t charge any fees at all, so you should try to seek these organizations out where possible.

Your ticket to Japan can cost you as much as $2000. And once you are here, you have to worry about food, travel, accommodation and leisure expenditures. Unpaid internships are most likely going to come with free lodging and food. If not, accommodation charges are up to $200 per week. That is why it is sensible to look for other interns, who are willing to share accommodation costs with you. Choose somebody with which you can share your accommodation peaceably!

Some interns find problems with the business environment in Japan. They cannot understand that there is a definite hierarchy, with due respect given to older employees and senior ranking officials. Besides this, one has to know about the Japanese working environment, and working possible late hours. Many interns from the West cannot understand why Japan does not work 9-to-5, with weekends off. Well, a successful intern is one who understands the highly successful and profitable work environment of Japan.

Another possible problem is “losing face.” Never ever go into confrontation mode with your seniors, because you find some of their requests unreasonable. The Japanese are extremely polite. They are going to disregard your impolite behavior. Yet, you have “lost face” because you did not learn the ABC of proper Japanese behavior in the office and in society.

It is extremely essential that you learn about “losing face” before you take up your internship in Japan. It is extremely essential that you never get into such a confrontational situation, ever, to keep relationships between your two peoples (and companies!) peaceful and cordial!

Vegetarians are going to find the going hard in matters of vegetarian cuisine and diet. You can make do with the rather expensive fruit and vegetables, but the much more sensible option is to cook your own vegetarian meals while you’re there.

An internship in Japan will be an extremely rewarding experience. As long as you are aware of potential issues which may occur, hopefully it will help you to avoid them all!

Potential Issues You May Face During an Internship in Japan