Publication Date

2025

Document Type

Restricted

Abstract

This paper examines the lived experiences of labor migrants in Japan’s hospitality sector, focusing on the motivations behind their decision to work in Japan despite linguistic, cultural, and institutional barriers. Based on fieldwork conducted during an eight-week internship as a waitress at a hotel restaurant in Kyoto, the study combines personal diary excerpts with qualitative interviews with foreign managerial staff. By weaving together personal experiences and interview data, the paper offers insight into how foreign workers navigate hierarchy, belonging, and the everyday realities of working in Japan’s service industry.

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The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.