For a foreigner with almost no Japanese language skills who wants to come to Japan and start earning money, the best approach is to find a job that doesn't require Japanese skill while also balancing work with Japanese language study. Here are some suggestions.

Jobs Which Require No Japanese Ability

Jobs for Non-Japanese Speakers

English Teaching (ALT or Conversation Schools):If you speak English fluently, teaching English is one of the easiest jobs to secure without needing Japanese. Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) positions in public schools or private conversation schools often do not require Japanese proficiency.

Tour Guide for Foreign Tourists: Working as a tour guide for foreign visitors in Japan, especially in English or your native language, is another job where Japanese skills are not mandatory.

International Restaurants or Cafes: Many restaurants or cafes in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or tourist areas hire staff who speak English or other languages. In these jobs, you may not need much Japanese, especially if the establishment caters to foreigners.

Warehouse or Factory Work: Some manual labor jobs in factories or warehouses do not require strong Japanese skills, as long as you can follow simple instructions and do physical tasks.

Online or Freelance Jobs

Remote Work: If you have skills in areas like translation, web development, graphic design, or content writing, you can work remotely and earn money online, where Japanese is not necessary. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or other freelancing websites can connect you with global clients.

Content Creation: Blogging, YouTube, or social media content creation, especially in your native language or for an international audience, can also provide income without needing Japanese.

How Many Hours Should You Work and Study Japanese?

Work Hours

Initially, it’s recommended to start with a part-time schedule (around 20–30 hours a week) to leave time for adjusting to life in Japan and focusing on language study.

Study Hours

Dedicate 1–2 hours a day for Japanese study. As you get more comfortable with your job and daily life, you can adjust your workload and study time based on how much progress you’re making with the language.

Recommended Study Approach

Beginner Japanese Classes

Look for online or local beginner Japanese classes. These can be structured courses that help you build a foundation in the language. Apps like Duolingo, LingoDeer, or Busuu can help with daily practice.

Language Exchange or Practical Usage

Join in language exchange programs or practice with co-workers and in daily life. This will help you to get used to workplaces.

Ideal Timeline

First 3–6 Months

Focus on learning essential phrases, survival Japanese, and basic grammar. Aim for part-time work during this period to maintain a good balance between earning money and learning.

Beyond 6 Months

Once you have a basic grasp of the language, you can consider working more hours or transitioning to jobs that require more Japanese.

Conclusion: The Key Is to Find a Balance

By combining work with steady language learning, you’ll be able to adapt more quickly and open up more opportunities for different jobs in Japan. The key is to find a balance that allows you to earn money while steadily improving your language skills, whether through part-time jobs in customer service, more structured employment, or even freelance work. As your Japanese level improves, so too will your ability to communicate and engage in everyday life and professional settings. This will not only make your experience in Japan more enriching but also help you transition into more advanced roles, where higher levels of Japanese proficiency are required.