Resume and CV guide for Japan

Japan employers usually ask for a CV — commonly written as “履歴書 (Rirekisho)”. What that document looks like locally differs from the generic advice you will find elsewhere, so the details below describe practice in Japan specifically.

At a glance

• Document: 履歴書 (Rirekisho) (CV)
• Typical length: 1–2 pages
• Date format: YYYY.MM.DD
• Phone format: +81 90 1234 5678
• Photo: commonly included
• Page size: A4 (210 × 297 mm)
• Most common language of application: ja

Length expectations in Japan

Two documents are often sent: a 履歴書 and a 職務経歴書.

Photos

A photo with your name and the date written under it is part of the traditional format.

Professional summary

Prefer a short motivation statement over a long personal summary.

Education

State the faculty and whether you completed the programme.

Work experience

List employment periods precisely; gaps should be explainable.

Format and delivery

A4 paper, Japanese-style dates, and keep entries within the conventional column layout.

Common sections used in Japan

• Summary
• Experience
• Education
• Skills
• References

General career guidance based on common practice — not legal, immigration or hiring compliance advice. Expectations vary by employer, industry and seniority.

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