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If you’re working or planning to work in Japan, one of the first documents you’ll receive from your employer is called a “Rodo Joken Tsuchisho” (労働条件通知書). This document plays an important role in protecting your rights as a worker.
In this article, we’ll explain what it is and what you should check before signing or starting your job.
What Is a “Rodo Joken Tsuchisho”?
In Japan, companies are required by law to provide this document when hiring a worker.
Unlike in many countries, a written employment contract is not always mandatory in Japan, but providing this notification is.
Usually, it’s a simple one or two-page document. By issuing this, the company is formally informing you about your main working conditions.
Contract Period (Duration of Employment)
The document will state:
- Whether your contract is permanent or fixed-term
- If fixed-term, the start and end dates
- Whether contract renewal is possible
Example:
Contract Period: From April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026 (renewal possible depending on performance and company needs)
This helps you know how long your job will last and if it can be extended.
Working Hours and Break Time
It will clearly state:
- Start time
- End time
- Break time
Example:
Working Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Break Time: 60 minutes
This tells you when you’re expected to work each day and how long your rest period is.
Salary and Allowances
The document will mention:
- Your base salary (basic pay)
- Any additional allowances (commuting allowance, housing allowance, etc.)
- Overtime pay rates
In some cases, the exact overtime pay rate is not written in the notice, and you may be told to check the company’s work rules (“Shugyo Kisoku”).
If you’re unsure about overtime pay, ask your HR department or request a copy of the work rules.
Holidays and Leave
It will describe:
- Your regular days off
Example:
Saturdays, Sundays, National holidays, and New Year holidays (December 29 – January 3)
- Your entitlement to paid leave (annual paid leave / “Yukyu Kyuka”)
- Other special leaves (for example, bereavement leave, marriage leave, etc.)
Extra Tip: Moving to a New Place for Your New Job?
Changing jobs in Japan often means moving to a new city or even a different prefecture.
If you’re planning a move, it’s smart to compare estimates from different companies to find the best price and service.
One recommended option is Hakobu Moving Service (ハコブ引っ越しサービス).
They offer free estimates via phone or online, giving you clear pricing and optional services beforehand.
Hakobu welcomes competitive comparison with other companies, so you can easily weigh their offer against others.
While Hakobu isn’t a multi-company comparison platform, their low-cost and transparent service makes them a solid choice—especially if you’re moving within the Tokyo area .
If you’re juggling resignation paperwork and preparing for a new job, Hakobu’s no-pressure estimate process can help your move go smoothly.
Final Tip
Before starting your job in Japan, carefully check your Rodo Joken Tsuchisho.
If something is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for an explanation in simple Japanese or English.
It’s an important document to protect your rights and avoid future problems at work.
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