What Is a Rirekisho?

The rirekisho (履歴書) is the standard resume document used in Japan. Unlike Western-style CVs, the rirekisho follows a strict, formalized format — and deviating from it can raise red flags with Japanese employers. Whether you're applying to a hotel in Susukino, a tech startup in Odori, or a retail position in Sapporo's shopping districts, you'll almost certainly need one.

Where to Get a Rirekisho Template

There are two common ways to obtain a rirekisho form:

  • Convenience stores — Lawson, FamilyMart, and Seven-Eleven throughout Sapporo sell printed rirekisho pads for a few hundred yen.
  • Digital templates — The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (厚生労働省) provides a standardized downloadable template on its official website, which is widely accepted by employers.

For most professional roles, the digital version is increasingly acceptable. However, some traditional companies still prefer handwritten documents, so check the job listing carefully.

Key Sections of the Rirekisho

1. Personal Information (基本情報)

Fill in your name (in both kanji and furigana), date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Attach a recent passport-style photo (typically 3cm × 4cm) in the designated box — this is standard in Japan and not considered unusual.

2. Education History (学歴)

List your educational background in chronological order, starting from your earliest qualification. Write the full name of each institution and your graduation year. Use the Japanese era calendar (e.g., Reiwa, Heisei) or Western years — both are generally acceptable.

3. Work History (職歴)

List every job you have held, in order. Include company names, your role, and the period of employment. Gaps in employment are noticed, so be prepared to explain them at interview.

4. Qualifications & Licenses (資格・免許)

Include any relevant certifications — Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) level, IT qualifications, driver's license, or industry-specific credentials. For Sapporo employers, a driver's license can be a significant asset given Hokkaido's winter road conditions.

5. Reason for Application (志望動機)

This short paragraph explains why you want this specific job at this specific company. Avoid generic statements. Research the company and connect your background to their mission.

6. Self-Promotion (自己PR)

Briefly highlight your strengths and what value you bring. Keep it honest, specific, and relevant to the role.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Leaving fields blank — Write 「なし」 (none) rather than leaving a section empty.
  2. Using correction fluid on handwritten forms — A mistake means starting over on a fresh form.
  3. Using a casual or unprofessional photo — Dress formally and use a plain background.
  4. Forgetting to proofread — Typos on a rirekisho signal carelessness to Japanese employers.

Tips for Foreign Applicants in Sapporo

If Japanese is not your first language, be honest about your proficiency level. Many Sapporo employers — particularly in tourism, IT, and international trade — actively seek bilingual or multilingual staff. Submitting a rirekisho in Japanese demonstrates effort and commitment, even if imperfect. Consider asking a Japanese-speaking friend or a career advisor at Hello Work (ハローワーク), Sapporo's public employment office, to review your document before submission.

Final Checklist

  • ✅ Recent, formal photo attached
  • ✅ All dates accurate and in consistent format
  • ✅ No blank fields — write なし where applicable
  • ✅ Motivation section tailored to the specific company
  • ✅ Document signed and dated

Getting your rirekisho right is the first and most important step in your Sapporo job search. Take your time with it — this document is your first impression.