If you’re studying in Japan and looking for a part-time job, restaurants are one of the most popular and beginner-friendly choices. Many international students start here because shifts are flexible, Japanese practice is built-in, and employers are often used to hiring foreigners.

But before you apply, it’s important to know the rules:

How Many Hours Can You Work on a Student Visa?

With a valid “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted” stamp on your Residence Card, you can:

• Work up to 28 hours per week during school terms.
  
• Work up to 40 hours per week during long school breaks (spring, summer, winter holidays).
  

⚠️ Important: Nightlife jobs like bars, hostess clubs, or pachinko are strictly prohibited for student visa holders. Always stick to approved workplaces like restaurants, convenience stores, or cafes.

Restaurant Jobs Students Can Do Legally

Here are the most common restaurant positions that welcome international students:

1. Hall Staff (ホールスタッフ) – Customer Service

This role puts you in direct contact with customers. You’ll seat guests, take orders, bring food, and clear tables. It’s fast-paced, but also the best way to practice conversational Japanese in real situations.

Example tasks:

• Saying “いらっしゃいませ！” (Welcome!) when customers arrive.
  
• Taking simple food and drink orders.
  
• Handling payments at the register.
  

💡 Tip: Many chain restaurants provide training manuals and scripts, so even if your Japanese isn’t perfect, you’ll know what to say.

2. Kitchen Staff (キッチンスタッフ) – Behind the Scenes

If you’re shy or still building your Japanese, working in the kitchen is a great choice. Duties often include food prep, washing dishes, and helping chefs with basic cooking tasks.

Example tasks:

• Cutting vegetables or preparing side dishes.
  
• Washing pots, pans, and tableware.
  
• Assembling bento or set meals.
  

💡 Tip: Communication is more about speed and teamwork here. Even beginners with limited Japanese can manage well.

3. Dishwasher (皿洗い) – Entry-Level Work

Dishwashing is usually the easiest position to land because it requires almost no Japanese ability. Many students start here, then move to hall or kitchen staff once they gain confidence.

Example tasks:

• Using dishwashers to clean plates and cups.
  
• Sorting kitchen tools.
  
• Helping with simple cleaning.
  

💡 Tip: Even though it’s simple work, showing reliability can open the door to better positions in the same restaurant.

4. Fast Food Crew – Quick Service Chains

Japan’s big fast-food brands like McDonald’s, MOS Burger, and Sukiya often hire international students. The tasks are standardized, and training is provided step by step.

Example tasks:

• Preparing burgers or rice bowls.
  
• Serving food at the counter.
  
• Handling cash registers with easy-to-use POS systems.
  

💡 Tip: Fast food shops are busy, but they’re also a good way to learn common Japanese phrases quickly since everything is repetitive.

5. Café or Bakery Staff

If you like a calmer vibe, cafés and bakeries also hire students. These jobs involve brewing drinks, serving pastries, and sometimes light cooking.

Example tasks:

• Making coffee or tea.
  
• Explaining menu items to customers.
  
• Cleaning and arranging tables.
  

💡 Tip: These jobs can be a great match if you want a more relaxing environment compared to crowded restaurants.

Why Choose a Restaurant Job as a Student?

• Flexible schedules that fit around classes.
  
• On-the-job Japanese practice with native speakers.
  
• Opportunities for growth—many students start part-time and later move into more skilled roles.
  
• High demand—restaurants always need staff, especially during evenings and weekends.
  

Final Thoughts

Working at a restaurant in Japan is not only legal for students (with the right permit), it’s also one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture while earning money. Whether you’re greeting customers, serving ramen, or preparing meals in the kitchen, every shift is a chance to improve your language skills and build confidence.

👉 Tip for applicants: Always mention your availability for weekends or evenings during interviews—restaurants value that highly.