In 1995 I got my first full time contract to teach at a Junior College. I was told I had to enroll in Shakai Hoken. I told the college that because I wasn’t intending to stay in Japan for much longer I did not want to enroll. They replied that it was the law and I couldn’t refuse. I then replied that “I definitely refuse to join shakai hoken”. But in the end they were paying my salary and they said I had no say in the matter.

I felt dejected, this stupid Japanese system. I thought avoiding it was the best option. I was wrong.

Wind the clock forward to 2026. Shakai Hoken helped me pay for my family’s health insurance, helped me secure a home loan, paid for my wife’s health insurance and National Pension, and now I am entitled to my Japanese employee pension.

I am so lucky that my employer made me join Shakai Hoken, back when I didn’t realize how important it was, and detrimental it is for workers if employers try to avoid enrolling you. My advice to all is you should definitely enroll for yourself, your family and your future.

C.F