How to Write a Resignation Letter in Japan

Resigning from a job in Japan follows specific customs and legal requirements that differ significantly from Western practices. This guide covers the two types of resignation documents, the correct format, legal obligations, and the growing trend of resignation agencies.

Taishoku-Todoke vs. Taishoku-Negai

Legal rule: Under the Civil Code, permanent employees can resign with just 2 weeks' notice. Fixed-term employees generally cannot resign mid-contract except for compelling reasons.

How to Write a Taishoku-Todoke

Format

Traditionally written vertically (tategaki) on A4 white paper with black pen. Horizontal writing is also acceptable in modern workplaces.

Structure

1. Title: 退職届 (Taishoku-Todoke)
2. Body: States resignation due to personal reasons, effective on the specified date
3. Resignation date: Agreed upon with supervisor
4. Submission date: The actual date of submission
5. Department and full name: With personal seal (inkan)
6. Addressee: Company president's full title and name

The Resignation Agency (Taishoku Daikou) Trend

Over 50,000 people per year now use resignation agencies — services that handle the resignation process on your behalf. Cost: ¥20,000-50,000.

When people use them:

• Unable to face their supervisor
• Workplace harassment situations
• Company refuses to accept resignation

What NOT to Do

• Don't resign only by email — Hand-deliver the written document
• Don't resign without notice — 2 weeks is the legal minimum
• Don't badmouth the company — Consider future references and industry relationships
• Don't skip the handover — Professional courtesy matters

Using Remaining Paid Leave

After submitting your resignation, you have the right to use remaining paid leave days. The company cannot refuse this.

Key points:

• Take paid leave during the notice period
• Social insurance continues during paid leave
• Some companies may offer to buy out remaining days

Securely Sharing Your Draft

Sometimes you want a trusted friend or mentor to review your resignation letter before submitting it.

LOCK.PUB tip: Save your resignation letter draft in a LOCK.PUB secret memo and share the password only with your reviewer. Unlike sending it via iMessage or email — where it could be seen by the wrong person — LOCK.PUB ensures only password holders can access the document.

Post-Resignation Checklist

• Switch health insurance (voluntary continuation or National Health Insurance)
• Pension transfer procedures
• Apply for unemployment insurance
• Confirm resident tax payment method
• Collect withholding tax certificate

• Create a secure memo on LOCK.PUB

This article reflects laws as of March 2026.