For foreign entrepreneurs aiming to start a business in Japan, the language barrier is one of the biggest challenges. While Japan is becoming more globalized, Japanese remains the dominant language in business. Especially when conducting business with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or in rural areas, proficiency in Japanese is often required, in addition to English. This article delves into the situations where foreign entrepreneurs face the language barrier and provides specific approaches for overcoming it.

1. The Challenge of Business Japanese

One of the most difficult aspects for foreign entrepreneurs is mastering business Japanese. Unlike everyday conversations, business situations frequently require expressions based on honorifics and business etiquette. These honorifics are divided into forms such as “respectful language,” “humble language,” and “polite language,” and you need to know which form to use depending on your position in the conversation. For example, when speaking with clients or business partners, you need to use language that elevates them while humbling yourself or your company. This is not just a linguistic issue but one deeply rooted in cultural values, making it particularly challenging to grasp. Additionally, contracts and business documents use specialized terms and set phrases. Legal and financial documents in Japan are filled with legal jargon and technical terms, requiring a high level of Japanese proficiency to fully understand, even if you can speak the language. Especially during contract negotiations, misinterpretations can lead to significant problems, making it essential to pay close attention.

2. Challenges in Internal Communication

Internal communication can also be a language barrier for foreign entrepreneurs. Japan’s corporate culture is hierarchical, and proper use of honorifics is essential when giving instructions to subordinates or communicating with colleagues. Smooth communication in Japanese is crucial for maintaining employee motivation and providing appropriate feedback. Miscommunication with Japanese employees can lead to misunderstandings or, in some cases, undermine trust. Moreover, Japan’s unique “reading the air” culture can also contribute to the language barrier. In Japan, there are many situations where people are expected to understand the feelings and circumstances of others without explicit verbal communication. To appropriately navigate these situations, it’s necessary to not only know the language but also understand the cultural context behind it.

3. Approaches to Overcoming the Language Barrier

So, how can foreign entrepreneurs overcome the Japanese language barrier? Here are some specific approaches that can help.

3.1. Learning Business Japanese

The first step is learning business Japanese. To master the specific expressions and honorifics used in business, it is recommended to use materials or programs that focus on business Japanese. In particular, practicing role-playing exercises simulating real business situations can be very effective. By preparing for meetings, presentations, emails, and phone conversations through practice, you can build the practical skills needed for real-world business situations.

3.2. Utilizing a Mentor

Next, finding a mentor who can teach you business Japanese and Japanese business etiquette is also crucial. Ideally, this mentor should be a Japanese person with substantial business experience. They can provide advice not only on language but also on Japanese business culture and customs, serving as a valuable guide for overcoming language barriers. This is something that can be achieved through Japagrit’s Business Japanese Coaching Program. Since the program offers one-on-one sessions with experienced business trainers, it provides the right environment to develop these skills effectively.

3.3. Continuous Learning and Adaptability are Key

Overcoming the Japanese language barrier requires time and effort. However, by continuously learning and adopting a mindset that embraces Japan’s business culture, you will undoubtedly see results. In addition to learning the language, understanding Japanese culture and business etiquette and building trust with local business partners and customers are key steps toward success. Mastering business Japanese will smooth negotiations with clients and partners, significantly contributing to business expansion. For foreign entrepreneurs to succeed in Japan, it is essential not to be intimidated by the language barrier but to actively learn and practice Japanese. That effort will ultimately be the key to unlocking broader business opportunities in the Japanese market. At Japagrit, we offer a Business Japanese Program specifically tailored for foreign entrepreneurs starting businesses in Japan. This program provides one-on-one sessions and emphasizes practical business Japanese through role-playing exercises based on real business scenarios.