Zangyo is an unavoidable theme when discussing Japanese work styles. It is not just about extra working hours but also reflects history, culture, and social values, making it a focus of international attention.
The Basic Definition of Zangyo
In Japan, zangyo means working beyond the legally established working hours under the Labor Standards Act. By law, the standard is 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. Anything beyond that is considered overtime, and companies must sign a “36 Agreement” with employees to allow it.
Zangyo is classified into four main categories:
| Category | Description | Extra Pay Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Within Legal Limit | Beyond company rules but within legal hours | Regular wage |
| Beyond Legal Limit | Exceeding the legal standard | 25% or more |
| Night Work | From 10 PM to 5 AM | 25% or more |
| Holiday Work | On statutory holidays | 35% or more |
Although the rules appear clear, in practice, issues such as unpaid zangyo and vague labor management often arise.
Cultural Background of Zangyo in Japan
The persistence of zangyo in Japan can be traced back to the postwar high economic growth period. At that time, the belief that “the more you work, the richer the country becomes” spread throughout society. As a result, long working hours were praised as proof of one’s contribution to the company.
In addition, traditional employment practices such as lifetime employment and seniority-based promotion encouraged more overtime. Workers often avoided leaving before their boss or stayed late to support colleagues, creating strong pressure to engage in zangyo.
Thus, overtime became more than just extended hours. It was treated as a symbol of loyalty and responsibility.
Modern Japan and the Zangyo Problem
Excessive working hours developed into a serious social issue. The word karoshi (death from overwork) became internationally known, symbolizing Japan’s challenges.
In response, the government introduced the Work Style Reform policy, placing limits on zangyo. In principle, 45 hours per month and 360 hours per year are the maximum. Even during busy periods, the annual limit is 720 hours.
Yet problems persist. Unpaid zangyo, hidden overtime during remote work, and conflicts between performance-based evaluation and time reduction remain unresolved. Therefore, it is not enough to simply regulate time—companies must also improve efficiency and review evaluation systems.
Zangyo in International Comparison
Japan does not necessarily have the longest working hours in the world. However, the way time is used is distinctive. Lengthy meetings and coordination tasks reduce efficiency, which in turn leads to zangyo.
The table below compares working hours and productivity in major countries:
| Country | Annual Avg. Working Hours | Productivity (GDP per hour) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | ~1600 | Medium | Hours decreasing, but efficiency is low |
| Germany | ~1350 | High | Focus on efficiency and leaving on time |
| South Korea | ~1900 | Low | Chronic long working hours |
| Netherlands | ~1400 | High | Strong emphasis on work-life balance |
This comparison shows that Japan’s main issue is not just the length of work but low efficiency.
Actual Zangyo by Industry
The situation of zangyo varies greatly across industries.
| Industry | Features | Reasons for Zangyo |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Peaks during busy seasons | Production schedules |
| IT | Chronic long hours | Labor shortage, strict deadlines |
| Service | Irregular shifts | Customer demand and flexibility |
| Foreign firms | Relatively little overtime | Performance-based, efficiency-oriented |
Thus, both industry characteristics and company culture strongly affect whether zangyo occurs.
Efforts to Reduce Zangyo
Both the government and companies are implementing measures to reduce zangyo.
| Initiative | Description | Expected Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Flextime | Flexible start and end times | Better work-life balance |
| Remote work | Work from home | Shorter commutes, higher efficiency |
| No Zangyo Day | Mandatory early leave | Correcting long-hour culture |
| AI utilization | Automating tasks | Improved efficiency |
These efforts are not just about reducing hours but about improving the quality of work styles.
How Foreigners See Japanese Zangyo
Foreign workers and researchers often express surprise at Japan’s time-based evaluation rather than results-based evaluation. For many outside Japan, working longer hours is not considered proof of dedication.
At the same time, Japan’s strong sense of responsibility and teamwork can leave a positive impression. However, in an increasingly globalized world, Japan needs to shift toward efficient and flexible work styles to remain competitive.
The Future of Zangyo and Japanese Society
Due to an aging and shrinking population, Japan cannot sustain a work system dependent on zangyo. Younger generations now value work-life balance more than previous ones and tend to reject excessive overtime.
With advancing technology and shifting values, zangyo is expected to decrease. In the future, overtime may become an exception rather than the norm.
Conclusion
Zangyo has been deeply rooted in Japanese society. It has long been seen as a symbol of diligence, but at the same time criticized as a symbol of inefficiency. While legal regulations and corporate reforms are progressing, cultural and habitual influences remain strong.
Japan’s challenge is to move away from treating zangyo as a virtue. Building a work culture that values efficiency and allows people to live healthy and fulfilling lives will be key to shaping the future of Japanese society.
