Japan’s agriculture industry is facing a labor shortage, creating opportunities for foreign workers to join as farm assistants, crop pickers, and livestock helpers. Under Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker Visa (SSW) and Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), foreigners can legally work in farming with visa sponsorship.
Job Overview
Foreign farmworkers in Japan help with:
- Planting and harvesting crops (potatoes, lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, melons).
- Feeding and cleaning livestock (cows, chickens, horses).
- Milking, cleaning farm machinery, and maintaining sheds.
- Growing cut flowers and ornamental plants.
Salary & Benefits
- Average Salary: JPY 150,000 – 250,000 per month (varies by region/employer).
- Accommodation: Many employers provide shared housing.
- Flight Support: Some companies cover one-way or return airfare.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available under SSW or TITP programs.
(Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan, job boards like GaijinPot & WeXpats)
Who Can Apply
- Foreign applicants with interest in farming.
- No formal degree required, but physical fitness is important.
- Japanese language basics (N4 level) are preferred but not always mandatory.
Where to Find Jobs
- Daijob.com
- GaijinPot Jobs
- Jobs in Japan
- WeXpats Jobs
- Tokyo Connections
Application Process
- Search for “Farming Jobs” on the above portals.
- Filter by Visa Offered.
- Apply directly with your CV.
- Once hired, the employer will sponsor your work visa.
- Prepare for relocation (flight arrangements, accommodation confirmation).
Things to Keep in Mind
- Farming work is physically demanding and often in rural areas.
- Seasonal variations mean long hours during harvest seasons.
- Learning basic Japanese greatly improves chances of selection and daily communication.
Conclusion:
Farming jobs in Japan offer a pathway for foreigners seeking work abroad with visa sponsorship, housing, and travel benefits. While the work is challenging, it provides valuable experience, cultural exchange, and stable income. To succeed, apply through trusted portals, confirm benefits directly with employers, and prepare for the unique lifestyle of rural Japan.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
How do I apply for a job in Japanese agriculture?
Who can participate in the “Farm Labor in Japan” program?
You must have the ability to obtain a Working Holiday visa.
To be able to comprehend job instructions, you must possess conversational Japanese language skills.
It is expected that you have a genuine interest in and drive for farm labor. -
Japan: Is agriculture in demand?
Japan: Is agriculture in demand?
Japan’s agriculture industry is on the rise due to a rise in domestic and international demand for high-quality agricultural products. However, the industry is not devoid of problems. In the event of a natural calamity, agriculture, which is highly climate-dependent, may experience a decline in productivity. -
Is Japan suitable for farming?
Even though only about 20 percent of the land area of the island nation is suitable for cultivation, it is intensively farmed, with rice paddies and fields occupying most of the countryside.
