Employment law issues in Japan are often difficult for foreign companies to resolve as Japan’s employment law is very unique and employee-friendly.  Also, given the personal and individual nature of employment matters, it is important to understand the cultural issues as well as the labor practices involved in drafting employment contracts and work rules, dealing with the termination of low performing employees, and resolving labor disputes.  With recent employment law reforms, compliance with newly amended laws and regulations have become more critical, especially with regard to employee overtime and harassment matters.