Japan is a society in flux. Gender roles are dissolving, work ethics are shifting, and while a shrinking workforce is forcing this homogeneous nation to alter its views on foreign workers, the upcoming Olympic Games mean international visitors must also be welcomed with open arms.
It’s no secret that Japanese workers are known for their commitment to their employers; working long hours is the norm. But with a growing number of people literally working themselves to death, companies and the government are striving to achieve a balance.
Less than 2% of Japan’s population is foreign, and while that figure is rising, discrimination is rife. But with the workforce shrinking, policies are changing to better accommodate foreigners, and Japanese people are slowly realising it’s time to get on board.
With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics approaching, the government has set a goal of attracting 40 million visitors, hoping to promote the country on the global stage and boost the economy in the process. And everyone is pitching in to accommodate international guests.
While gender roles are still clearly defined in Japan, more women are prioritising their careers, heading back to the office after marriage and kids. In turn, the population of ikumen – male caregivers – is slowly growing, and the stigma attached to the idea is vanishing.