Yokohama

A. Working Hours

• Standard Working Hours:
  • The standard working hours in Japan are 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
  • Employers must provide at least one day off per week or four days off in a four-week period.
• Breaks:
  • Employees working more than 6 hours are entitled to a minimum 45-minute break.
  • For shifts exceeding 8 hours, a minimum 1-hour break is required.
• Flexible Work Arrangements:
  • Some companies in Yokohama may offer flexible working hours or telecommuting options, but these are not mandatory unless specified in the employment contract.

B. Minimum Wage

• Yokohama Minimum Wage:
  • As of October 2023, the minimum wage in Kanagawa Prefecture (which includes Yokohama) is 1,112 yen per hour.
  • This is higher than the national minimum wage, reflecting the cost of living in the region.
  • Employers are legally required to pay at least this amount, regardless of the employee's nationality or job type.

C. Overtime Pay

• Overtime Regulations:
  • Any work exceeding 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week is considered overtime.
  • Overtime pay rates are as follows:
    • 25% extra for regular overtime.
    • 35% extra for overtime between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM (night work).
    • 50% extra for overtime exceeding 60 hours per month (applicable to large companies; small companies are exempt until 2025).
• Holiday Work:
  • If an employee works on their designated day off, they are entitled to 35% extra pay.

D. Paid Leave

• Annual Paid Leave:
  • Employees are entitled to 10 days of paid leave after working for 6 months, provided they have an attendance rate of at least 80%.
  • The number of paid leave days increases with years of service, up to a maximum of 20 days.
• Special Leave:
  • Some companies may offer additional leave for personal reasons, such as bereavement or marriage, but this is not legally mandated.

E. Workplace Harassment

• Types of Harassment:
  • Power Harassment (Pawa Hara): Abuse of authority in the workplace.
  • Sexual Harassment (Seku Hara): Unwelcome sexual advances or behavior.
  • Maternity Harassment (Mata Hara): Discrimination against pregnant employees or those on maternity leave.
• Legal Protections:
  • Employers are required to take measures to prevent workplace harassment under the Act on the Promotion of Measures to Prevent Power Harassment.
  • Victims can report harassment to their employer, labor unions, or labor offices.

F. Termination and Resignation

• Termination:
  • Employers must provide at least 30 days' notice or pay 30 days' worth of wages in lieu of notice.
  • Dismissals must be based on valid reasons, such as poor performance or company restructuring, and cannot be discriminatory.
• Resignation:
  • Employees are required to give at least two weeks' notice before resigning, unless otherwise specified in their contract.

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3. Costs and Procedures for Filing Complaints

If you believe your rights have been violated, you can take the following steps:

A. Consult with Your Employer

• Start by discussing the issue with your employer or HR department. Many companies in Japan have internal grievance procedures.

B. Contact the Local Labor Standards Inspection Office

• The Yokohama Labor Standards Inspection Office (労働基準監督署) is the primary government body for addressing labor law violations.
  • Address: 1-1-2 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0011
  • Phone: 045-211-7350
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM
  • Services: They handle complaints related to unpaid wages, overtime violations, workplace harassment, and unsafe working conditions.

C. Seek Assistance from Labor Unions

• Labor unions in Japan, such as the General Union or Rengo Kanagawa, can provide support and representation.
  • Rengo Kanagawa (Kanagawa Prefectural Federation of Trade Unions):
    • Address: 2-23-2 Tsuruyacho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 221-0835
    • Phone: 045-324-2121
    • Website: Rengo Kanagawa
  • Labor unions can help negotiate with employers and provide legal advice.

D. File a Complaint with the Kanagawa Prefectural Labor Bureau

• The Kanagawa Prefectural Labor Bureau oversees labor standards in the region.
  • Address: 1-1-2 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0011
  • Phone: 045-211-7350
  • Website: Kanagawa Labor Bureau

E. Legal Assistance

• If the issue cannot be resolved through labor offices or unions, you may need to consult a labor lawyer. The Kanagawa Bar Association can help you find legal representation.
  • Website: Kanagawa Bar Association

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4. Cultural Considerations

• Workplace Hierarchy: Japanese workplaces often have a hierarchical structure. Respect for seniority and polite communication are highly valued.
• Overtime Culture: While overtime is common in Japan, employees are not obligated to work beyond their contracted hours unless agreed upon.
• Language Barrier: Most labor-related resources are available in Japanese, but some offices and unions offer support in English or other languages. Consider bringing a translator if needed.

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5. Tips for Employees in Yokohama

• Understand Your Contract: Ensure you fully understand your employment contract, including working hours, salary, and benefits.
• Keep Records: Maintain records of your working hours, pay slips, and any correspondence with your employer.
• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with Japanese labor laws to avoid exploitation.
• Seek Help Early: If you experience issues, seek assistance promptly to prevent escalation.

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By understanding your rights and the resources available, you can ensure a fair and positive working experience in Yokohama. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!