Internships in Tokyo for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide

Embarking on an internship in Tokyo opens doors to a world of professional and cultural experiences. Tokyo, a global epicenter for industries ranging from technology to fashion, offers vast prospects for international students. This guide aims to be your essential companion for navigating the complexities of interning in Tokyo.

Choosing Tokyo for your internship offers an array of unparalleled advantages that go beyond mere work experience. If you need convincing, here are 4 good reasons to get you started:

With numerous multi-national companies headquartered in Tokyo, the city offers a global platform that is unparalleled, enriching your CV with international experience.

Whether your interest lies in business analytics, environmental conservation, or contemporary arts, Tokyo has a multitude of companies and institutions where you can develop your expertise.

Japanese work culture is renowned for its focus on precision, discipline, and respect. Such an environment is perfect for nurturing both your technical and soft skills.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts, blending centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovations. Cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies or Matsuri festivals will enrich your stay beyond the professional scope.

Home to stock markets and a plethora of international banks, Tokyo is a magnet for finance enthusiasts. From risk analysis to portfolio management, the city has it all. Learn more about our business and finance internships in Tokyo.

Tokyo is home to veritable giants of the tech industry, most of which offer tech internships focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and software development. 

These internships often come with mentorship programs and project responsibilities, so can be the experience that kick starts your career in tech. 

Whether you’re interested in graphic design, photography, or digital marketing, Tokyo’s lesser-known creative sector is burgeoning. 

It’s a bit more of a tiered process than other industries – small agencies offer hands-on experience, while bigger companies provide a structured internship programme. Both have their respective benefits, and we encourage you to learn as much as you can beforehand.

Tokyo, a city of ceaseless action and stories waiting to be told, serves as fertile ground for internships in journalism and media.

Whether your passion lies in investigative journalism, public relations, or multimedia production, Tokyo’s diverse media landscape offers a wide array of opportunities that can help hone your skills and broaden your perspective.

Internships in Japan are generally classified as a ‘volunteering activity’, therefore foreign interns do not usually need a visa. You must first apply at the Japanese Embassy in the country of your citizenship/long term residence. The cost of the visa is estimated at ¥3000.

The visa exemption period for most countries is 90 days, and interns looking to take programs that are longer than 90 days will need to leave Japan and re-enter. This is a straightforward process that involves a short flight to Korea (typically return flights start from USD $120). 

Of course. Please do not worry about the visa; our Admissions team have specialist knowledge in all visa types, and will be able to guide you through the process. We will be able to evaluate and confirm your eligibility during your admission interview with us.

Learn more about how we can help you get your visa for interning in Tokyo here.

Apartments, while convenient and more spacious, require hefty deposits and sometimes a Japanese guarantor to secure, whilst share houses are a more affordable and social option. These are fully furnished and often include utilities as part of the rent.

Japanese apartment leases often require a commitment of at least 6-12 months, although share houses are generally more flexible.

At Beyond Academy, we make accommodation one less thing to worry about, and we work with a few carefully selected partners in Tokyo. 

Mainly student accommodation and share houses, we only provide options that meet our safety, quality and cleanliness standards. You’ll be living with fellow Beyond Interns, students and some young professionals. So it’s a great way to integrate with the local community for those traveling from overseas.

A lot will depend on what you decide to do whilst out in Tokyo, but in general your most consistent and significant cost of living considerations will include daily expenses for food & groceries, transportation costs, and insurance

Expect to pay around ¥1,000 for a modest meal. Groceries can cost up to ¥40,000 per month if you plan to cook at home.

A monthly metro pass ranges from ¥13,000 to ¥20,000, depending on the areas you need to access for your internship.

Health insurance is mandatory in Japan. You can expect to pay between ¥2,000 and ¥5,000 per month for a basic health insurance plan. We know this can be the most daunting step for prospective Tokyo interns, so at Beyond Academy we have partnered with Safety Wing to ensure you are fully protected abroad. 

Learn more about your Insurance options here.

Understanding Japanese etiquette is essential for social and professional interactions. Always bow when greeting someone, and never tip in restaurants or taxis. Japan is a high-context culture, meaning non-verbal cues are crucial. Do a bit of research beforehand, learn to read the room, and to be respectful of hierarchies.

Basic Japanese language skills are highly recommended. Although your workplace might operate primarily in English, day-to-day activities like grocery shopping or taking public transport could be challenging without a grasp of basic Japanese.

Groups like the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan or Tokyo Tech Meetup offer excellent networking opportunities.

Workshops and seminars are regularly held in English, covering a variety of topics from blockchain technology to effective communication.

With Beyond Academy, get regular invites to curated professional networking events – a great way to build up your global contacts. Get in touch today to learn more.

Interning in Tokyo is not merely a job but an enriching experience that can have a big impact on your career and personal growth. 

Global and Diverse Opportunities: Tokyo offers a broad range of internship prospects across various sectors like tech, finance, and the creative fields. The city serves as a global platform for enriching your CV with international experience and diverse skill sets.

Visa and Accommodation: Visa requirements are generally straightforward for internships under 90 days. For accommodation, Beyond Academy offers vetted options, such as apartments and share houses, that adhere to high standards of safety and cleanliness.

Cost of Living: Daily expenses, transportation, and mandatory health insurance are the primary cost considerations. Beyond Academy has partnerships to help you navigate insurance options.

Cultural Sensitivity and Language: Familiarity with Japanese etiquette and basic language skills are highly recommended for both professional and day-to-day interactions.

Networking and Skill Development: Tokyo’s professional environment offers ample opportunities for networking through groups like the American Chamber of Commerce and skill enhancement through various English-speaking workshops.