Do you need to write a resume to apply for a job in Japan?
In Japan, some companies have their own resume format, but for part-time jobs, any general format resume (sold in hundred-yen stores or bookstores) is fine.
Today, let’s learn together how to prepare to write a resume and how to write it in Japanese.
This article is divided into two parts: Part-1 shows you where to find resumes and where to get your photo taken; Part-2 shows you what to write in each section of your resume; the link to Part-2 is at the bottom of this article.
I suggest you read both articles from your computer!
Where Can I Find a Resume?
You can purchase resumes in the stationery section of the following types of stores
- Hundred-yen stores
- Bookstores
- Convenience stores
- University Co-op (convenience store in the university)
You may find two types of resumes: A4 and B5. A4 is larger and easier to write on in Japanese, so choose A4 if you can find it.
When writing by hand, use a black ballpoint pen (erasable pens are not acceptable). If you do not have one, don’t forget to buy one with your resume.
Other templates are also available online. Excel and Google Sheets are convenient to type in on your computer. Even if you don’t have a printer at home, you can easily print them out at convenience stores.
Template List
Excel
Word
Google Sheets
履歴書テンプレート（リクナビNEXTジャーナル）
*Click [Use this template] or when the spreadsheet opens, click [File] in the upper left corner of the screen, and then click [Make a copy].
PDF for handwriting
How to use online printing at convenience stores
At 7-Eleven:
Services at Convenience Stores
At Lawson, FamilyMart, and Poplar:
If you need to attach a photo
Write your name on the back of the photo before you stick it on.
This is to make sure that the employer will know whose photo it is in case it comes off. Usually, write your full name, but if you are concerned about privacy, just write your last name. This is just a kind of etiquette in Japan, so you won’t be rejected just because you forgot to write your name on the back. Do not worry!
Have your photo taken at a photo studio
You can have your photo taken right away for about 1,500 to 2,500 yen at some chain stores. There are also plans that include digital data.
(Recommended for full-time job hunting.)
カメラのキタムラ (Japanese only)
パレットプラザ (Japanese only)
Take a photo at an ID photo machine (証明写真機)
You can find them at train stations, convenience stores, and shopping malls. It usually costs about 700-800 yen, but those with retouching for beautiful skin cost about 1,000 yen. Make sure your hair does not cover too much of your face and be careful about the size of the photo. Select「履歴書（3cm x 4cm)」size.
Print out a photo taken with your smartphone
Using an app called Pic-chan, you can print out photos taken with your smartphone at major convenience stores for 200 yen. See the official website for more details.
Convenience store ID photos ¥200 | Pic-chan
Link to Part-2 for how to fill out each field on the resume
For how to fill out each field on the resume, please read “How to write a resume in Japanese | Part-2”! (This link will be available on August 20th, 2021.)
Related articles:
How to Find a Job in Japan (From the Perspective of a Former Recruiting Agent)
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