HOOK 2026/27: Hands Off Our Koma
Every year, universities decide next year’s koma (コマ, teaching slots/classes) long before teachers hear a word about it. HOOK—Hands Off…
Shakai Hoken and Retirement – A Member’s Story
In 1995 I got my first full time contract to teach at a Junior College. I was told I had…
Why am I worth 20% less than yesterday?
For many workers in Japan, turning 60 is no longer the end of their working lives. With retirement ages rising…
When Retirement Comes with a Hitch
When will a university teacher be asked to retire? At one university, the answer depends on the type of contract…
Missing Pension Contributions Can Cost You for Life
When people think about social insurance (shakai hoken, or 社会保険), they usually think about health insurance or the deductions from…
Understanding Japan’s Pension System: Are You Building Your Retirement Security?
Japan’s pension system is designed around one basic idea: people build pension coverage throughout much of their adult lives so…
Retirement in Japan: Understanding Your Pension and Planning for the Future
The pension you receive in retirement is being built throughout your working life. Knowing how the system works, when you…