On the 13th, a post on China's SNS Xiaohongshu (RED) titled "After returning (to China) and working for a year, I wanted to return to Japan again" garnered a significant response.

The poster lamented, "I really can't make it work domestically." They obtained a Master's degree in Economics in Japan, hold Japanese Language Proficiency Test Level 1 (N1), and have a TOEFL score of 110. After returning to China, they are reportedly working in investment research, but revealed, "Although the work is not that busy, I don't feel like I'm learning anything. After actually returning to China, I realized that I had overestimated the domestic work environment in China."

They also stated, "I feel that my Japanese conversational skills have declined considerably since returning home," and asked, "In this situation, what should I do to go to Japan again and get a job in the financial industry? I would like to hear any good advice."

In response to this post, Chinese netizens offered advice such as: "It's a good idea to register on job search sites like BizReach and Mynavi and apply directly. Thoroughly research each company and meticulously prepare your entry sheets. If you apply broadly, even slowly, some company will definitely hire you." "There might be demand for finance-related jobs in Japan, but I don't know to what extent you meet the Japanese language level required at work. Foreign-affiliated banks might be easier to get into." "Someone was looking for a job in Japan and found a position that involved a lot of overseas business trips. The destinations were mainly Europe and China. It seemed that not many Japanese employees at that company wanted to go on overseas business trips, but this person, on the other hand, liked business trips. I think such a situation could also work."

Additionally, "Finance-related jobs in Japan would probably be difficult for foreigners to get. Especially since visa policies are being tightened now." "Your English proficiency is sufficiently high. You don't necessarily have to stick to Japan." "If you become fully immersed in a Japanese company, you might be stuck with Japanese companies for life. You might be better off going to an English-speaking company (in another country)," and other opinions suggesting that other countries besides Japan should be considered, were also seen.

Furthermore, "I thought you wanted to live a 'lie-flat' (apathetic) life in Japan, but you want to learn? (lol)" "Japan probably has lower growth potential." "If there's nothing to learn domestically, there's probably even less to learn in Japan. If learning is a condition, you don't necessarily have to go to Japan. If you're not seeking a high salary and just want to live a leisurely life, then Japan might be worth considering," were also among the comments received.

In addition, "What would you do returning to Japan? You'll earn little money and be lonely." "The Japanese work environment is even worse, isn't it? Moreover, the Japanese yen is continuously declining. Money earned in Japan can only really be spent in Japan." "Japanese workplaces aren't that great either. The only good thing is that there are many holidays. Both China and Japan have their pros and cons. If you really want to work in a relaxed manner, it's better to leave East Asia," were also among the views posted.

On the other hand, opinions suggesting that the poster should remain in Japan included: "Only extremely talented people can return (to China) now. Useless people like me can't." "Every time I try to stop people who want to return to China, I can't. They only understand once they go back and work (in China) themselves." "You won't find a good job in China now." "I was working in R&D in Japan, returned to China last month, and am doing the same R&D work, but I have to admit I overestimated my adaptability. I probably think I'll return to Japan in a little while," and many other voices citing the harsh employment situation and work environment in China.

Furthermore, "Only Japan would offer a job to a foreigner without a visa." "I've been spoiled and become useless in Japan, so now I have no choice but to stay here," and other voices citing passive reasons were also prominent. (Translation/Editing: Kitada)