The rirekisho (履歴書) is Japan’s standard job application form — and it’s nothing like a Western CV. Fixed format, handwritten in many cases, with sections that would be unusual to ask for in Western countries.

What Is a Rirekisho?

A rirekisho is a standardized Japanese résumé on a single A3 sheet folded in half. Unlike a Western CV where you design your own layout, Japanese companies expect a specific format — either handwritten or typed using official templates.

It covers: personal info, photo, education history, work history, qualifications, reasons for applying (志望動機), and self-promotion (自己PR).

Do Foreigners Need to Write It in Japanese?

For most Japanese companies: yes. Even for international roles, a Japanese rirekisho is usually expected.

For foreign companies with Japan offices, or roles on job sites targeting foreigners: English is often acceptable — check the listing.

Where to Get the Template

  1. Convenience stores — ¥100 at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson
  2. Download and print — search 履歴書 テンプレート; JIS standard format is safest
  3. Apps — 履歴書カメラ or Yagish let you fill out and print from your phone

How to Fill Out Each Section

氏名 (Name)

Write in katakana as it appears on your residence card.

証明写真 (Photo)

  • Size: 3cm × 4cm, taken within last 3 months
  • Business attire, plain background, no hats
  • Photo booths at convenience stores cost around ¥700–900

学歴 (Education)

Chronological order. For foreign degrees, write university name in katakana and note the country.

職歴 (Work History)

Chronological. End each company with 一同退職 (resigned) or 現在に至る (currently employed). Close with 以上.

免許・資格 (Qualifications)

JLPT level, driver’s license, TOEIC score if relevant.

志望動機 (Reason for Applying)

The section recruiters actually read. 3–5 sentences: why this company, what you bring, what you want to contribute. Research the company and show it.

本人希望記入欄 (Preferences)

Write 貴社規定に従います if you have no special requests — the safe standard answer.

Handwritten vs. Typed

Traditional companies (manufacturing, government, smaller firms): handwritten is expected. Mistakes require starting over — buy extra forms.

Modern/international companies: typed is fine using the standard template.

Common Mistakes

  • Inconsistent date format — use all Western or all Japanese era calendar throughout
  • Correction fluid — not acceptable on handwritten forms; rewrite the whole form
  • Weak 志望動機 — “I want to improve my Japanese” is not a hiring reason
  • Leaving preferences blank — write 貴社規定に従います