More and more foreign workers are getting cleaning jobs in Japan. People want to work in Japan because it is a safe, developed, and well-organized place. Japan is known for being clean, and people take hygiene very seriously in their daily lives. Because people in this area value cleanliness so much, there is always a high need for cleaning staff.
Hotels, hospitals, offices, shopping malls, factories, train stations, and public buildings all need cleaners. Cleaning jobs in Japan are not seasonal; they are steady and available all year long.
Why Cleaning Jobs in Japan Are in High Demand
There are several reasons why Japan continues to hire foreign workers for cleaning jobs:
Aging Population
Japan’s population is getting older, and a lot of people there would rather work in an office or in technology. This is why companies hire foreign workers to do cleaning and maintenance work.
Growth in Tourism
Japan’s tourism is on the rise again, especially in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Hotels and guesthouses need more people to clean and do housekeeping.
Large Number of Facilities
Japan has a huge number of factories, office buildings, hospitals, and public facilities that must be cleaned daily to meet strict hygiene standards.
Strong Cleanliness Culture
Cleanliness is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Even small details matter, which makes cleaning an important and respected job.
Because of these reasons, the demand for cleaners in Japan is expected to continue in 2026 and beyond.
Popular Cleaning Jobs in Japan
There are different types of cleaning jobs depending on the workplace. Each role has specific duties.
1. Hotel Cleaning Jobs in Japan
Hotel cleaning is one of the most common jobs for foreign workers.
Main duties include:
- Cleaning guest rooms
- Changing bed sheets and pillow covers
- Replacing towels
- Cleaning bathrooms
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
Hotel cleaners must work efficiently, especially during check-out and check-in hours.
2. Office Cleaner Jobs
Office cleaners usually work early in the morning or in the evening.
Tasks include:
- Cleaning desks and work areas
- Mopping floors
- Emptying trash bins
- Cleaning toilets
- Wiping glass and surfaces
Office cleaning jobs have a more regular schedule and less pressure compared to hotels.
3. Hospital Cleaning Jobs
Hospital cleaning requires extra care and responsibility.
Responsibilities include:
- Sanitizing patient rooms
- Cleaning medical areas
- Proper disposal of waste
- Following strict hygiene and safety rules
Attention to detail is very important in hospital cleaning jobs.
4. Factory Cleaner Jobs in Japan
Factories also employ cleaning staff to maintain safety and hygiene.
Work includes:
- Cleaning production areas
- Removing industrial waste
- Cleaning around machines
- Following workplace safety guidelines
Factory cleaning can be physically demanding.
Salary for Cleaning Jobs in Japan (2026)
Salaries depend on the city, company, and type of work.
Average hourly wage:
¥950 – ¥1,300 per hour
Average monthly salary:
¥160,000 – ¥220,000
Cities like Tokyo usually offer higher pay, but living costs are also higher.
Some employers provide:
- Transportation allowance
- Health insurance
- Uniforms
- Paid leave
Free accommodation is not common, but some companies help workers find shared housing.
Working Hours and Conditions
Most cleaning jobs in Japan follow this schedule:
- 8 hours per day
- 5 or 6 working days per week
Overtime is paid according to Japanese labor laws.
Japanese work culture is disciplined and rule-focused. Punctuality, respect, and responsibility are very important. Cleaning work is physical, but the environment is generally safe and well-organized.
Basic Requirements to Work as a Cleaner in Japan
To work legally in Japan, you usually need:
- Valid passport
- Clean criminal record
- Good physical health
- Basic English communication skills
Japanese language skills are not always required, but learning basic Japanese greatly improves job opportunities.
Education is not very important for cleaning jobs. Experience is helpful but not always required.
Japan Work Visa for Cleaning Jobs
You cannot work in Japan without a legal work visa.
General visa process:
- Get a job offer from a company
- Employer applies for Certificate of Eligibility
- Apply for visa at Japanese embassy
- Travel to Japan
Some workers apply through the Technical Intern Training Program or the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa.
The process usually takes 1 to 3 months.
Note: Always apply through legal and verified channels. Never pay money to unknown agents.
Cost of Living in Japan
Before moving, it is important to understand expenses.
Average monthly costs:
- Shared room rent: ¥30,000 – ¥60,000
- Food: ¥20,000 – ¥35,000
- Transport: ¥5,000 – ¥15,000
With good money management, many workers are able to save part of their income.
Benefits of Cleaning Jobs in Japan
Many foreign workers choose Japan because:
- The country is very safe.
- The pay is steady and comes on time.
- The workplace is well-organized.
- Important work experience abroad
- Low crime rate and good public transport
Challenges You Should Know
Cleaning jobs are honest but not easy.
Common challenges include:
- Long hours of standing
- Early morning shifts
- Language barrier
- Strict work rules
- Cold winters
Mental strength and discipline are important.
Career Growth Opportunities
With hard work and good performance, career growth is possible:
Cleaner → Senior Cleaner → Team Leader → Supervisor
Learning Japanese can open doors to better positions in the future.