Even 15 minutes overtime is paid: Indian reveals 6 Japanese workplace rules

An Indian professional who has spent a decade working in Japan has shared the workplace habits that surprised him the most. From punctuality and teamwork to being paid overtime even for 15 minutes, CEO train commutes and elevator etiquette, his Instagram video offers a glimpse into the everyday culture of Japanese offices.An Indian professional who has spent a decade working in Japan has shared the workplace habits that surprised him the most. (Instagram/@ankit_purohit_japan)Landing a job in Japan is only part of the journey. According to an Indian professional who has spent the last 10 years working there, understanding the country's workplace culture matters just as much."Finding a job in Japan isn't difficult, but understanding the office culture is crucial," said Instagram creator Ankit Purohit (@ankit_purohit_japan) in a recent reel explaining the everyday habits that shape Japanese offices. His post has caught the attention of people considering Japan for work or higher studies."Working in Japan is more than just having a job; it's about becoming part of a culture that values discipline, respect, responsibility, and teamwork," he wrote.WHAT STOOD OUT AFTER 10 YEARS IN JAPANAccording to Purohit, these are some everyday Japanese workplace habits that surprised him the most:Be early, not just on time. If work starts at 9 am, employees are expected to be at the office before then.Even CEOs take the train. Daily commuting is not seen as a status symbol.Lunch is personal time. Most employees eat convenience-store bento boxes instead of bringing lunch from home.Elevator etiquette matters. The person nearest the buttons holds the door until everyone exits and leaves last.Every minute counts. Even 15 minutes of overtime is paid.Work ends when you log out. Managers generally don't call with extra work after office hours or on days off."These small habits not only make you a better employee but also help you grow as a person," Purohit noted. QUALITY OVER SPEEDPurohit says Japanese workplaces value teamwork over individual recognition.According to him, communication is expected to be proactive, employees are encouraged to keep learning new skills, and companies place greater importance on doing a job well than simply finishing it quickly. He also highlighted work-life boundaries, saying employees are paid for overtime and managers generally avoid contacting staff after they have logged off or on their days off.Reflecting on his decade in Japan, Purohit said these habits have influenced him beyond the workplace."These small habits not only make you a better employee but also help you grow as a person."His video has prompted discussions among viewers, with many praising Japan's discipline, professionalism and respect for employees, while others said these practices were exactly why they hoped to work there one day.- EndsPublished On: Jul 22, 2026 11:42 IST