KUROFUNE Launched a Training Camp for Foreign Truck Drivers in Japan

KUROFUNE Launches Training Camp for Foreign Truck Drivers in Japan

KUROFUNE, a company dedicated to supporting foreign workers in Japan, recently held an entrance ceremony for a training camp aimed at specific skills workers, specifically truck drivers. This event took place at the Akita North Auto School, marking a significant step in addressing Japan’s growing labor shortage in the trucking industry.

Established in February 2018, KUROFUNE focuses on creating a supportive environment for foreign nationals. The additional pressure for skilled laborers, particularly in Japan’s logistics sector, is evident, with the number of foreign workers soaring to 2.57 million as of October 2025. The specific skills visa program introduced in 2019 has led to a surge in foreign workers, with the trucking industry being a new inclusion from 2024.

For workers pursuing the specific skills visa, passing both the Japanese Language Proficiency Test and a skills assessment is mandatory. Moreover, it is required to hold a valid Japanese driver’s license to commence work as a truck driver. To mitigate challenges for foreign workers in obtaining this license, KUROFUNE has established a comprehensive training structure in partnership with the Akita North Auto School. This program not only offers training but also provides accommodation in traditional houses owned by KUROFUNE.

The Entrance Ceremony

On May 15, 2026, two Indonesian nationals will officially begin their journey at the training camp. During the entrance ceremony, these prospective drivers expressed their determination to study diligently and succeed in their new roles. KUROFUNE is committed to guiding them through the process of obtaining the necessary visa status and helping them build a sustainable living and working environment.

Strategies to Address Labor Shortages

KUROFUNE's initiative is a response to Japan's trucking labor shortage challenge, which is increasing as many companies seek capable drivers. The company has also been chosen for various regional government projects, establishing a base in Odate City, where there is a significant number of vacant houses available for use as accommodation for trainees.

In addition, KUROFUNE has been collaborating with active seniors in the area to foster support systems where local citizens can provide assistance to foreign workers. The program aims to not only combat the labor shortage but also revitalize the local community by utilizing these empty houses for training purposes.

Goals of the Initiative

KUROFUNE’s multifaceted approach aims to tackle three core issues:
1. The shortage of truck drivers across Japan.
2. The problem of empty houses in Akita's Odate City.
3. Creating new employment opportunities for active seniors in the same region.

Future Plans

KUROFUNE aspires to expand this program nationwide, actively seeking partnerships with various auto transportation companies to train qualified drivers. The vision extends to transforming Odate City into a reputable training hub for foreign truck drivers, supported by local communities and resources.

KUROFUNE has also developed two key applications: the KUROFUNE app, which assists foreign workers in securing employment in Japan, and the KUROFUNE PASSPORT app, focusing on legal support and retention strategies for specific skills workers. By facilitating comprehensive support, KUROFUNE aims to ensure foreign workers settle into their new roles and communities successfully, affirming its mission to create an inclusive environment akin to what they experience in their home countries.

The entrance ceremony at Akita North Auto School is not just a start; it represents a broader strategy to address pressing societal issues while enabling individuals to thrive in their new roles.

For further information about KUROFUNE and its programs, visit their official website: KUROFUNE.