Just what is a “salaryman”?
A fabled idea from an anime, perhaps. A guy sits alone in a ramen shop. He’s been working hard all day. He works hard everyday and at night goes out to eat and drink alone. Staring into his creamy steaming noodles, piled high with sliced pork and green onion, his hashi pause above the steaming bowl. He’s mildly depressed and would like to chat. But the cook has already moved on to the salarymen rowdily entering through the sliding doors: “Itarashai!”, he cries.
As legendary as the term may sound, salarymen are still today as synonymous with Japan’s bustling corporate culture as they have ever been. In Tokyo (and other large cities in Japan), especially at lunchtime and rush hour, you will see the ubiquitous suited and booted white-collar workers. These guys are the everyday-heroes who who are still the backbone of the country’s economy and a defining feature of its urban landscape. And yes, they are still usually men.
A Brief History of the Japanese Salaryman
This era saw the birth of the salaryman archetype—a diligent, loyal employee who dedicates his life to the company. The salaryman’s identity became intertwined with Japan’s economic success, symbolising the country’s rapid transformation into a global economic power.
The concept of the salaryman emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, during Japan’s post-World War II economic boom. As the nation rapidly industrialised, there was a significant shift from agricultural and artisanal work to corporate work in offices. Companies began offering lifetime employment and seniority-based promotions, fostering a culture of loyalty and dedication among their workers.
The Culture of the Salaryman
The life of a salaryman is marked by long working hours, often extending well beyond the official end of the workday. This commitment is driven by a strong sense of duty and loyalty to the employer, reflecting a broader cultural emphasis on collectivism and group harmony (和 wa).
Socialising after work is another integral part of salaryman culture. Nomikai (drinking parties) and enkai (banquets) are common, where colleagues bond over drinks and informal conversations. These gatherings play a crucial role in fostering camaraderie and team spirit, blurring the lines between professional and personal lives.
Despite the rigorous demands, many salarymen find a sense of purpose and identity through their work. The company is often seen as an extended family, and career success is a significant source of pride and social status.
Little-Known Facts About Japanese Salarymen
- Shushoku Katsudo (Job Hunting): The journey to becoming a salaryman starts early. University students begin shushoku katsudo, or job hunting, in their third year. This period is marked by attending job fairs, interviews, and often wearing the traditional “recruit suit.”
- Morning Exercises (Rajio Taiso): In many companies, salarymen participate in rajio taiso, a set of morning exercises broadcasted on the radio. This practice dates back to the early 20th century and aims to promote physical fitness and prepare employees for the day ahead.
- Office Uniforms: Many companies require salarymen to wear specific uniforms or adhere to a dress code. This uniformity reinforces a sense of unity and reduces visible distinctions between employees, promoting equality.
- Company Songs: Some traditional Japanese companies have their own anthems or songs that employees sing together during gatherings or meetings. These songs often encapsulate the company’s values and history, strengthening corporate identity.
- Public Sleeping: Inemuri, or sleeping on the job, is often tolerated and even seen as a sign of dedication. It indicates that the employee has been working hard and is so committed that they sacrifice personal rest.
- Retirement and Second Careers: Although lifetime employment has waned in recent years, many salarymen still retire from their first job in their early 60s. However, it’s common for them to start second careers, often in less demanding roles, to stay active and continue contributing to society.
Challenges and Changing Trends
While the salaryman has long been a symbol of stability, this lifestyle comes with significant challenges. Long working hours and the pressure to conform can lead to stress and health issues. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need for work-life balance and mental health support.
The rise of women in the workforce, technological advancements, and shifts in economic conditions are slowly transforming the salaryman culture. Flexible working hours, remote work, and a focus on individual achievements are gaining traction, reflecting broader societal changes.
The Japanese salaryman is more than just a corporate worker; he is a cultural icon representing Japan’s post-war economic miracle and the collective spirit that drove it. Understanding the history, culture, and little-known aspects of the salaryman’s world offers valuable insights into Japanese society and the values that continue to shape it. As Japan evolves, so too does the role of the salaryman, adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the modern era.
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