Fresh Graduate Salaries Rise to Reach Rp40 Million per Month, But This is in Japan!

The rise in fresh graduate salaries in Japan has become an increasingly evident trend in recent years. The tightening labour market has compelled companies to compete more aggressively for the best candidates. The start of the new fiscal year last week marked a significant moment. Many companies held welcoming ceremonies for new employees, reflecting new dynamics in the working world. Behind these ceremonies lies a major factor driving change: the persistent shortage of labour. “This gradual labour shortage is increasing starting salaries for new employees,” as quoted from an NHK report on Tuesday, 7 April 2026. The impact on salary levels is quite significant. Several companies have begun offering starting salaries well above average to attract young talent. As one example, a company offers up to 400,000 yen, or about US$2,500 per month, to some new employees, while the general starting salary for new employees is around 340,000 yen, or about US$2,100. Converted at an assumed exchange rate of Rp17,000, these figures equate to approximately Rp42.5 million per month for the highest offers and Rp35.7 million for the average. An interesting initiative comes from a major electronics retail company in Tokyo that has implemented a new salary scheme. This scheme does not apply to everyone. Only candidates with certain experience can receive higher salaries. “This scheme provides higher starting salaries to new employees who have worked part-time at the company for at least one year before joining as permanent staff. They must have experience in store operations and in-depth knowledge of the products sold by the company,” the report states. Due to the quite specific requirements, the number of beneficiaries remains limited. “Only 25 out of more than 500 new employees at this company qualify for the higher salary.” Nevertheless, this strategy is considered effective for retaining talent that is already familiar with the company from the start. With this new scheme, the company hopes to continue recruiting outstanding part-time student workers as full-time employees after graduation.