Tokyo lags behind the U.S., Singapore, Australia, and other countries when it comes to IT, is witnessing a growing demand for bilingual back-end developers. is witnessing a growing demand for bilingual back-end developers. This surge is fueled by the city's expanding global business landscape and the need for diverse teams that can navigate both Japanese and international markets. In this article, we explore the opportunities, challenges, and rewards for bilingual back-end developers in Tokyo.

The Rising Demand in Tokyo's Tech Scene

Tokyo's tech industry is booming, and with it, the need for skilled back-end developers who can communicate in both Japanese and English. Service like those featured on Arigato Work are at the forefront of this trend, seeking developers who can bridge the gap between local and global tech environments.

Skills and Expertise

A successful bilingual back-end developer in Tokyo typically possesses a strong foundation in programming languages such as Java, Python, Ruby, and PHP. Knowledge of database management, server architecture, and cloud services is crucial. Additionally, being able to speak both Japanese and English at a business level or above is an important requirement, enabling developers to work effectively in diverse teams and handle international projects.
Many companies require Japanese language proficiency to be at least N3 or above.
However, some companies do not require Japanese at all. For example, developer for Ruby on Rails, mobile app engineers, airplane engineers, etc.

The Work Environment

Working in Tokyo as a bilingual back-end developer offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese work culture and modern, flexible tech environments. Companies often provide hybrid work models, combining remote and office-based work, and emphasize a balance between work and personal life.

Salary and Benefits

Salaries for bilingual back-end developers in Tokyo are competitive, reflecting the high demand and specialized skill set required. According to recent data, salaries range from ¥7 million to ¥14 million annually, depending on experience and expertise. Benefits often include health insurance, paid vacations, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Opportunities for Career Growth

Tokyo offers a dynamic and innovative tech landscape, providing ample opportunities for career advancement. Bilingual back-end developers can find themselves working on cutting-edge projects, leading teams, and even moving into higher management roles.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the main challenges faced by bilingual back-end developers in Tokyo is navigating the cultural and language barriers. However, many companies offer language training and cultural orientation programs to help international employees integrate smoothly into the Japanese work environment.

Conclusion

Tokyo presents a vibrant and rewarding landscape for bilingual back-end developers. With competitive salaries, a supportive work culture, and numerous opportunities for growth, it's an ideal location for developers looking to make a significant impact in the global tech industry.
In the past, many companies required candidates to have Japanese language skills, but recently, more and more companies are hiring candidates with English language skills and skill sets rather than Japanese language skills.