Tech Jobs in Tokyo, Japan

26,678 open positions · Updated daily

Tokyo’s tech scene thrives on a blend of cutting‑edge research and vibrant entrepreneurship, especially in districts like Shibuya, Akihabara, and Roppongi. The city’s R&D budget tops 10% of GDP, attracting global investors and startups alike. Coupled with local incentives such as the Tokyo Startup Visa, talent from around the world sees Tokyo as a launchpad for innovation.

Leading companies in Tokyo span automotive, consumer electronics, fintech, gaming, and AI. Toyota’s R&D center, Sony’s interactive division, SoftBank’s Vision Fund, Rakuten’s e‑commerce platform, and LINE’s messaging ecosystem dominate the landscape. Global giants—Google Tokyo, Amazon Japan, Microsoft Japan—have regional headquarters that offer diverse product and cloud roles. The city’s startup ecosystem hosts over 1,200 tech ventures, many headquartered in the burgeoning Shibuya and Shinjuku districts.

Living costs in Tokyo are high: a one‑bedroom apartment in central wards averages ¥150,000–¥200,000 per month, and utilities add another ¥15,000–¥20,000. Salary transparency becomes essential, allowing candidates to benchmark offers against the market, negotiate benefits that cover housing allowances, and ensure their compensation aligns with the city’s living standards.

Executive Chef

Company: Department of the Air Force - Pacific Air Forces

Location: Kadena Air Base Okinawa, Japan

Posted Jul 14, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of tech jobs are available in Tokyo, Japan?
Tokyo offers a broad spectrum of roles: software engineers (front‑end, back‑end, full‑stack), data scientists, AI/ML engineers, cybersecurity specialists, DevOps engineers, product managers, UI/UX designers, blockchain developers, fintech analysts, and gaming developers. Many positions focus on automotive electronics, consumer electronics, fintech, AI, IoT, and cloud services.
How are remote vs. on‑site work trends shaping Tokyo tech roles?
While multinational firms like Google and Amazon increasingly support remote or hybrid models, local Japanese companies—Sony, SoftBank, and LINE—still favor on‑site presence for collaboration. Hybrid arrangements are common, with core meetings in the office and flexible working from home. The trend is shifting toward more remote options for roles that can be performed digitally, such as cloud infrastructure and data analysis.
Which major employers dominate the Tokyo tech sector?
Key employers include SoftBank Group, Rakuten, Sony, Toyota Motor Corporation, LINE Corporation, Mercari, CyberAgent, Amazon Japan, Google Tokyo, and Microsoft Japan. These firms offer roles in R&D, product development, cloud services, and fintech, and many provide relocation packages and language support.
What salary expectations should tech candidates anticipate in Tokyo?
Average annual salaries for tech roles in Tokyo vary by function: software engineers earn ¥6–10 million, AI/ML engineers ¥8–12 million, data scientists ¥7–11 million, and product managers ¥10–15 million. Senior and specialized roles can command above ¥15 million. These figures typically include bonuses, housing allowances, and health benefits, reflecting Tokyo’s high cost of living.
What advice is there for relocating to Tokyo for tech work?
Start by securing a work visa—many companies sponsor the highly skilled professional visa. Research neighborhoods: Shibuya and Minato are popular for expats, offering international schools and convenient transit. Use local job boards and attend meetups in Roppongi Hills or the Tokyo Tech Hub. Prepare for housing costs by negotiating a monthly allowance, and consider shared apartments or company‑sponsored housing to reduce expenses. Learning basic Japanese will ease daily life and strengthen workplace relationships.

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