Ministry of Foreign Affairs Inspects Innovative Care Facility for Foreign Workers

Insight into the Visit by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Recently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs conducted an inspection at the 'My Home Harumi' facility, operated by the Hon'yuukai Social Welfare Corporation located in Setagaya, Tokyo. This visit provided a valuable opportunity for officials to observe firsthand the impressive efforts made by Hon'yuukai in accepting and nurturing foreign care workers.

During the inspection, the ministry representatives expressed their admiration for the high Japanese proficiency and care skills of the foreign staff, saying, "Everyone's Japanese is incredibly good, and they are truly exceptional."

Hon'yuukai's Role as a Pioneer in International Talent Development

Hon'yuukai was established in 1999, driven by the philosophy that enhancing the local community will lead to societal improvements. With this mission in mind, it has consistently aimed to provide a nurturing environment for individuals, irrespective of their country of origin.

In 2013, they began fully implementing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to welcome foreign caregivers into their workforce. By May 2025, they have successfully integrated 403 foreign care workers, particularly in facilities across Tokyo. The caregivers come from diverse nationalities, including Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Korea, and they work diligently towards obtaining the national qualification of Certified Care Worker while making meaningful contributions in Japanese care settings.

Why Foreign Care Workers Choose Hon'yuukai

Hon'yuukai prides itself on creating a work environment that is conducive for foreign caregivers, emphasizing accessibility and personal development:

- Intensive Japanese Language Training and Examination Preparation:

- Dedicated study time during work hours.
- Classes tailored to various language levels (N1 to N3).
- National examination preparation conducted by specialized instructors.
- Support for examination fees.

- Consideration for Daily Life, Culture, and Religion:

- Private housing available (235 units nationwide).
- Understanding of religious practices like Ramadan and flexible shift adjustments.
- Immediate assistance through communication platforms like LINE and Slack.

- Career Advancement Support:

- Fair evaluation systems parallel to Japanese employees.
- Numerous opportunities for promotions to leadership roles.
- Career support upon returning to their home countries, including plans for establishing local offices.

Leading the Way to an Inclusive Care Environment

At 'My Home Harumi,' the facility that was inspected, an Indonesian EPA care worker is currently thriving in a leadership position. This demonstrates Hon'yuukai's commitment not just to securing talent, but also to fostering an environment where foreign workers can take on central roles. Their initiatives have attracted attention both domestically and internationally.

The landscape of caregiving is undergoing significant changes. Hon'yuukai aims to turn language and cultural differences from mere barriers into valuable assets, fostering a society where individual uniqueness is celebrated and utilized.

Overview of Hon'yuukai

- Corporation Name: Hon'yuukai Social Welfare Corporation
- Chairman: Hiroshi Katori
- Headquarters Address: 1-4-15 Komazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo, 154-0012
- Number of Employees: 2,988 (of which 403 are foreign nationals)
- Number of Facilities: 159 (including nursing homes, group homes, and daycare services)
- Website: Hon'yuukai