{"id":11437,"date":"2025-11-03T15:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-03T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/onecoinenglish.com\/hireme\/?p=11437"},"modified":"2025-11-11T08:30:59","modified_gmt":"2025-11-11T08:30:59","slug":"rirekisho","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/onecoinenglish.com\/hireme\/rirekisho\/","title":{"rendered":"Rirekisho Basics: How to Write a Japanese Resume"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re starting job hunting in Japan, one of the first things you’ll encounter is the rirekisho<\/b>, the Japanese resume. If you’ve written a CV<\/b> or curriculum vitae<\/b> before, you might assume the process is similar. But the rirekisho<\/b> has its own rules, structure, and even cultural expectations that make it unique.<\/p>\n\t

Whether you’re new to job hunting in Japan or just curious about how it works, this guide will walk you through what a rirekisho<\/b> is, how it differs from other countries’ resumes, and how to write one that employers will take seriously.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\"pexels-olly-3760072\"\n\t

What is a Rirekisho?<\/b><\/h2>\n\t

The rirekisho<\/b> is the standard resume format used in Japan. Almost every employer will request one, whether you’re applying for a part-time position, a full-time role, or even an internship. Unlike a Western resume<\/b> or CV<\/b>, the rirekisho<\/b> emphasizes formality and consistency. Employers value the standardized structure because it makes it easier to compare candidates.<\/p>\n\t

Typically, you can buy blank rirekisho<\/b> forms at convenience stores or download digital versions. These forms have various sections to fill in, such as personal information, education, work history, and skills. Handwritten resumes are still common in Japan, as they show effort and seriousness, but typed versions are becoming more acceptable.<\/p>\n\t

Key Sections of a Rirekisho<\/b><\/h2>\n\t

Here are the most important parts of the rirekisho<\/b> and tips for filling them out:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Personal Information<\/b>
    \n<\/b> You’ll need to include your full name, address, phone number, and sometimes your seal (hanko). A professional ID photo is also required. The photo should resemble a passport photo, with neutral clothing and background.
    \n<\/li>\n
  2. Education and Work History<\/b>
    \n<\/b> List your educational history in chronological order, starting from high school, followed by university and any graduate studies. Include the years you attended and the names of institutions. This differs from many Western CV<\/b>s, which often skip high school unless it is relevant.
    \n<\/li>\n
  3. Licenses and Qualifications<\/b>
    \n<\/b> Include any certifications, language tests, or special qualifications that support your application. For example, teaching certifications, TOEFL, or JLPT scores can strengthen your resume for education-related positions.<\/li>\n
  4. Reason for Application (\u5fd7\u671b\u52d5\u6a5f \/ Shib\u014d D\u014dki)<\/b>
    \n<\/b> This is where you write why you’re applying for the job. It’s best to keep it concise but specific, mentioning the company’s values, your interest in Japan, or your passion for the field.
    \n<\/li>\n
  5. Commute and Availability<\/b>
    \n<\/b> A unique section in the rirekisho<\/b> is how long it takes you to commute to work. You’ll also note when you’re able to start.<\/li>\n
  6. Optional Sections<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Some rirekisho<\/b> forms include additional sections for hobbies, health status, or references. These are not always necessary, but including hobbies that demonstrate teamwork, discipline, or cultural understanding can add a subtle personal touch.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\"scott-graham-OQMZwNd3ThU-unsplash\"\n\t

    How a Rirekisho Differs from a Western Resume or CV<\/b><\/h2>\n\t

    If you’ve only written a Western resume<\/b> or CV<\/b>, the rirekisho<\/b> might feel unusual. Here are some of the biggest differences:<\/p>\n