Minimum Wage in Japan: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Japan?

As of 2026, Japan's national average minimum wage is approximately ¥1,118 per hour, and regional rates generally ranging from around ¥1,023 to ¥1,226 per hour (approximately USD 7.6–9.1/hour, depending on exchange rates). However, this rate varies by region, with Tokyo having the highest minimum wage at ¥1,226 per hour, and other prefectures such as Osaka, Kanagawa, and Aichi following closely behind. In contrast, rural areas like Akita and Okinawa have lower minimum wages, though all prefectures now exceed ¥1,000 per hour.

These rates reflect a 5.1% increase from the previous year, marking the largest annual rise in Japan's minimum wage in recent history. The increase aims to address inflationary pressures and improve workers' purchasing power.

Minimum Wage in Japan Based on Region

Average vs Reasonable vs Typical Minimum Wages

Average Minimum Wage: On average, the minimum wage across Japan is ¥1,118 per hour. This figure provides a baseline for employers to comply with, but many regions, especially large cities, will exceed this rate.

Reasonable Minimum Wage: Reasonable minimum wages are generally higher than the average and are typically adjusted according to regional cost-of-living factors. For instance, in Tokyo, the reasonable minimum wage would be much higher due to the increased living costs compared to rural regions.

Typical Minimum Wage: The typical minimum wage in Japan ranges between ¥1,000 to ¥1,200 per hour, depending on the region. For example, workers in urban centers like Osaka or Tokyo will generally earn above the typical wage rate, while rural areas may offer wages closer to the national average or slightly below.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers In Japan?

Japan's minimum wage law applies uniformly to all workers, though there are specific nuances depending on the worker type.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in Japan are guaranteed the minimum wage for their work. While the wage is fixed nationally, regional differences in pay exist, meaning workers in cities like Tokyo or Osaka may see wages above the base level.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees are also entitled to the same minimum wage as full-time workers in Japan. There are no specific wage reductions for part-time work, and employers must comply with the national or regional wage standards, depending on the location of employment.

Interns and Trainees

Interns and trainees may or may not be entitled to the minimum wage depending on their program structure. If the internship or training involves work that contributes to the employer's business, they are entitled to the minimum wage. However, internships or training periods that are purely educational or voluntary may not fall under minimum wage requirements.

Expats

Expatriates working in Japan are also entitled to the same minimum wage as local employees. The minimum wage laws apply equally to foreign workers, and they must receive at least the regional minimum wage, irrespective of their nationality.

Minimum Wage for Top Paying Roles In Japan?

 
• Doctors: For doctors in Japan, especially those employed full-time in hospitals, monthly earnings are typically well above average wage levels. Once fully qualified and experienced, many doctors earn the equivalent of around ¥1,000,000 or more per month, far exceeding the national minimum wage. While early-career doctors may start lower during training years, income rises steadily with experience and specialization.
• Engineers: Engineers, particularly in technology and software-related fields, commonly earn between roughly ¥500,000 and ¥1,000,000+ per month, depending on experience, role, and employer. These earnings are significantly higher than standard minimum wage levels, especially for mid-level and senior professionals
• Lawyers: Lawyers in Japan typically earn salaries well above minimum wage benchmarks, with many earning the equivalent of approximately ¥580,000 to ¥1,000,000 per month or more, depending on experience, firm size, and area of specialization. Even at entry level, legal salaries generally sit far above statutory wage floors.