The number of visitors to Japan in 2025 reached approximately 42.68 million, setting a new record. Inbound demand continues to support growth in the accommodation industry, while recruitment of foreign talent supporting operations is also accelerating. Successful workplaces focus on three areas: understanding statuses of residence, respecting diversity and clearly articulating the corporate philosophy.
The number of visitors to Japan in 2025 was approximately 42.68 million, surpassing 40 million for the first time. Inbound demand remains a vital source of growth for the accommodation industry, and the number of foreign personnel supporting operations is also increasing year by year.
The author explains that facilities achieving results in their operations share a common approach, with three points being particularly important. The first is an appropriate understanding of statuses of residence and keeping up with the latest developments. Screening has become stricter even since the Specified Skilled Worker status was introduced. The status of residence for the restaurant industry, where demand is high at accommodation facilities, is capped at 50,000 people, and admissions are sometimes temporarily suspended once that limit is reached.
The second is respecting diversity and focusing on people's strengths. It takes time for personnel from different cultural backgrounds to adapt to Japanese workplace culture, but facilities that have succeeded in retaining them accept cultural differences and focus on their willingness to make a positive contribution.
The third is clearly articulating the corporate philosophy and rules. When a company clearly communicates its principles, credo and expectations regarding initiative, foreign personnel can perform to their full potential without losing sight of the direction, which also helps reduce work-related stress.