Sample resignation letter Japan (6)

In this guide, we will see some Sample resignation letters in Japan (letter template) and some tips on how to write your letter (and the basic format).

Sample resignation letter Japan

If you are looking for a sample resignation letter in Japan this means you are considering or you are certain you would like to end your employment with them.

If you are resigning from a Gaishikei company, most likely you will need to write a resignation letter.

Delivering your resignation letter is a formality and will be added to your employee file, so remember to keep it professional and avoid burning bridges.

Your resignation letter must include your intended last day of employment and the name of your current job role.

In Japan, the standard notice period is one month. Your resignation letter should be kept brief and straightforward.

In addition, you can include positive statements about the time you spent working for them and a thank you statement for the opportunity they gave you.

Consider how for some employers and especially if it is your first contract, a two weeks’ notice is enough, generalunion.org recommends “giving as much notice as the employer desires…This is because of a conflict between the Labor Contract Act, the Civil Code, and the possibility of being sued for damages.”

Resignation tips

• Despite the reason or situation that may have contributed to your decision of leaving the company, there is no need to include any negative comments or experiences. Keep it professional, polite, and grateful for the opportunity even though it may have been a negative work experience.
•  You don’t have to disclose where you are going, especially if you are leaving to go to a new job opportunity at your company’s competitor and certainly you don’t need to share any information about your next employer if you already have one.
• Give enough notice. Check your employment contract and make sure you are giving enough notice as stated in your employment agreement. Some companies may ask you to work during your notice period and some others will give you an early release but pay you for it.
• Be prepared for counteroffers. 
• Submit a formal resignation letter in a business format making sure you include your intention to leave, your last day of employment, a thank you statement, and a warm closing.
• You are not obliged to give a reason for your resignation. According to the law, you don’t need to justify your resignation to anyone. It is customary in Japan to use “personal reasons” as the reason why you are leaving.
• Your company may have a template you can use to fill out when resigning if they don’t actually have one you can ask your boss for guidance (the term would be “Taishoku Negai”).

Sample 1

Example from careercross.com:

“Dear (manager name),

I hereby tender my resignation from my position as Sales Director.

My last day will be on August 21st, one month from today, as outlined in our contractual agreement.

Sincerely,

(your name)”

Sample 2: relocation

Example from careercross.com:

“Dear (manager name),

This resignation letter is to inform you that my last day at (company name) will be June 15th, one month from today. I will be relocating to Osaka to pursue a new endeavor.

I have appreciated the opportunities and experiences that have been provided to me during my 4 years of service for (company name). If there is anything I can do to be of assistance during the transition, please let me know.

Sincerely,

(your name)”

Sample 3

Example from careercross.com:

“Dear (manager name),

I am writing to you to officially tender my resignation from (company name) effective Thursday, July 17th, 2018.

Working for (company name) has been a wonderful experience. I could not ask for a better group of colleagues. I have grown in many ways here and will always treasure the opportunities provided for me by (company name).

I will be accepting a position as (position) with (company name). While I will miss my friends here at (company name), I feel that it is time for a new challenge and experience.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.

Best Wishes,

(your name)”

Sample 4

Example from consulting-japan.com:

“Manager’s Name, Title

XYZ Company

Address

Date of Submission

Dear Mr. / Ms. (Manager’s name)

I am writing to notify you that I am resigning from my position as your position with XYZ Company. My last day of employment will be xxxx (note: be sure to give as much notice as indicated on your contract), as per the responsibilities under the terms of my employment contract.

I appreciate the opportunity I have been given at XYZ Company and the professional guidance and support with which you have provided me. I wish you and the company success in the future.

If I can be of any assistance during the transition, please do not hesitate to ask.

Best Regards,

Signature

Your Name”

Sample 5

Example from generalunion.org:

“To [name of company],

Please accept this document as notice of my resignation, effective as of [last day of employment].

I anticipate that any outstanding salary shall be paid in full within seven (7) working days of my final day of employment.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]”

Sample 6

Example from roberthalf.com.au:

“(Current date)

Manager’s name

Company Name

Address

Dear (Manager’s name)

Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from (Company name). My last day with the company will be (date).

Before I leave, I will ensure that all my projects are completed as far as possible, and I am happy to assist in any way to ensure a smooth handover to my replacement.

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work at (company) for (years of service). During this time I have thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere within the team and I will miss our interactions.

While I am excited by the new opportunities that I will be pursuing, I will always remember my time at (company name) with affection. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information after I leave, and I would be delighted if you stay in touch.

Kind regards,

(Your signature)

(Your printed name)”

References 

Careerscross.com: “Resignation Guide”

Roberthalf.com.au: “Resignation letter templates”

Consulting-japan.com: “Resignation Tips”

Generalunion.org: “How To Resign (With Template Letter)”