#Japan #Tokyo #WILLER EXPRESS #NAVIS HR #Highway Pilot

Pioneering Project for Highway Pilot Training

In an exciting collaborative venture, NAVIS Human Resource Private Limited, headquartered in Bengaluru, India, has partnered with WILLER EXPRESS—one of Japan's largest highway bus networks. This initiative aims to train and recruit Indian drivers as "Highway Pilots," enhancing the standards of the Japanese transportation system.

On January 16, 2026, WILLER EXPRESS President Koji Hirayama visited NAVIS HR's training facility in India. He extended his heartfelt encouragement to the aspiring candidates aiming for careers in Japan. In an engaging interaction, young Indian drivers in their early twenties conveyed their ambitions fluently in Japanese, eager to embrace the role of Highway Pilots and elevate the quality of transportation in Japan.

The Bridge between India and Japan

The Highway Pilot program aspires to create not just laborers but partners contributing to Japan's transport infrastructure. This initiative aligns with WILLER EXPRESS's ambition to maintain the highest standards, defined as a professional group possessing both advanced skills and customer service mindset known as "Highway Pilots."

WILLER EXPRESS is recognized for its outstanding brand reputation and exceeds 3.36 million annual users. NAVIS HR is firmly committed to developing talent that can fulfill these high expectations while maintaining and enhancing the quality in Japan's bus industry. With prior success in sending the world’s first specific skill truck drivers to Japan in October 2025, they are poised to replicate this success in the bus sector.

A Message of Hope and Commitment

President Hirayama expressed his genuine interest in the dedication shown by the candidates during a lesson observation. "I want you to come to Japan; we need your capabilities," he shared with enthusiasm. This day left a lasting impression on the candidates aspiring to become professionals who will support safety in Japan's transportation sector.

The NAVIS HR’s unique teaching method prioritizes understanding and communication rather than rote memorization. By focusing on dialogue, candidates are encouraged to think critically and express themselves, fostering a deeper understanding of their educational material. The course emphasizes practical knowledge, such as Japan's driving rules and pedestrian priorities from native Japanese instructors, ensuring students are prepared for real-world scenarios.

Comprehensive Training Program for Successful Integration

NAVIS HR conducts an extensive eight-month training program tailored for experienced drivers from India, ensuring they are well-prepared for the Japanese job market. The curriculum emphasizes practical Japanese language skills (N3/N4 level), while also imparting knowledge about Japanese traffic customs and discipline.

Moreover, candidates engage in mindset training aimed at instilling a sense of safety and discipline necessary for professionals upholding Japan’s superior quality standards in transportation. Hirayama's passionate address at the local training center guided candidates to see the vital role they will play in Japan's transportation system.

An Invitation to Transform Transportation

During his visit, President Hirayama directly addressed the candidates, expressing, "We need your help!" He passionately invited them to join efforts in transforming transportation in both Japan and India. NAVIS HR is fully committed to supporting these aspiring Highway Pilots, ensuring they have stable and fulfilling careers in Japan, fostering continuous growth and mutual development.

The commitment to collaboration exemplified a profound connection strengthened like the 'W' symbol held high by candidates in Odisha, where they vowed to work together to transform Japan's transportation landscape.

Insights from Industry Leaders

NAVIS Human Resource Pvt. Ltd. CEO Takako Oshibuchi stated, "We prioritize the development of trustworthy individuals who can collaborate with Japan. Our mission goes beyond merely providing labor; we aim for a mutually beneficial growth relationship between ambitious Indian youth and Japanese employers."

From WILLER EXPRESS, President Koji Hirayama remarked, "Witnessing the sincere aspirations of candidates in Bengaluru confirmed my belief that they will uphold and contribute immensely to Japan's bus industry. Our collaboration aims to provide our customers with the highest quality travel experience, welcoming NAVIS HR's premium-trained drivers as proud Highway Pilots."