Tokyo
Many international firms have increased the number of Bengoshi in their practices over the last few years, which has enabled them to continue growing. This growth has, in turn, created opportunities for the lateral hire of international lawyers. As international firms are able to make use of the Japanese language skills of their Bengoshi, these skills are not essential for all positions in Tokyo, although candidates with business level Japanese are at a distinct advantage. International firms are also keen to see a specific motivation for making the move to Tokyo (having family there, for example). The main areas in which we have seen recruitment over the last year are banking/finance, corporate, energy/projects and litigation.