Free Rirekisho (履歴書) PDF Template – Download & Learn How to Write It

If you’re job hunting in Japan, the first document every employer will ask for is a Rirekisho (履歴書) — the standard Japanese resume. To make the process easier, we’re offering a free, clean, ATS-friendly Rirekisho PDF template you can download instantly.

This guide also links to our step-by-step tutorials on how to write each section, and introduces our powerful Rirekisho Builder Tool that helps you create a professional Japanese resume in minutes — even if you’re not confident in Japanese.

Download Your Free Rirekisho (履歴書) PDF Template

Our template follows the official Japanese layout used by companies across Japan. It includes:

• Personal Information section
• Education & Work History timeline
• Skills & Certificates
• Reason for Application (志望動機)
• Commute time, dependents, health info, etc.

Click below to download:

Download Rirekisho PDF

How to Write a Japanese Rirekisho (Step-by-Step Writing Guide)

If you’re not confident about how to fill out a Japanese Rirekisho, don’t worry — we’ve created clear, beginner-friendly guides that walk you through each part of the form. These explanations include sample phrases, formatting rules, and examples you can follow even if your Japanese level is still improving.

Currently, we offer two in-depth tutorials:

• How to Write a Rirekisho (Complete Beginner Guide) — Covers every section of the Japanese resume, from personal details to motivations (志望動機), commute time, skills, and more.
• How to Write the Education & Work History Section — Explains how to format dates, list schools and jobs correctly, avoid common mistakes, and present your timeline in the traditional Japanese style.

More guides will be added soon, including templates for Japanese phrases, skill descriptions, and how to write a strong 志望動機. Each guide is designed to help you write confidently and professionally.

Create Your Rirekisho Instantly with Our Online Builder

If you want to avoid writing everything by hand or adjusting PDFs manually, our Online Rirekisho Builder is the easiest way to create a professional Japanese resume from any device. The tool recreates the traditional layout of a Rirekisho, but adds modern features that make the entire process faster, clearer, and beginner-friendly — especially for foreigners.

With our builder, you can:

• Use it on both mobile and desktop with a smooth, responsive interface
• See a visual Rirekisho layout while filling each field — no guessing where things go
• Get section-by-section writing tips that explain what employers expect
• Convert Romaji → Hiragana/Katakana instantly with our built-in tool
• Use guided examples for Education, Work History, and 志望動機 to avoid mistakes
• Export a clean, employer-ready PDF with one click

If you are unsure whether to download a template or use an online builder, we also compare both options here:

• Free Rirekisho Templates vs Online Resume Builder: Which Is Better for Foreigners?

Create Rirekisho Online

Why This Template Helps You Stand Out

Japanese employers are very particular about resumes. Even small formatting mistakes can make your application look unprofessional. That’s why using a properly structured Rirekisho is so important — especially for foreigners who may not be familiar with the traditional Japanese layout.

Our template is designed to give you a strong advantage right from the start. Here’s why it stands out:

• Clean, HR-friendly design: Every section follows the standard Japanese format that hiring managers expect, making your resume easy to read and evaluate.
• Perfect for foreigners: We created this template with international job seekers in mind — the layout is simple, clear, and avoids unnecessary complexity.
• Matches real Japanese Rirekisho rules: From education timeline spacing to address format, everything follows the conventions used in Japanese hiring.
• Fully accepted across industries: Whether you’re applying to konbini, restaurants, factories, IT companies, or global firms, this format works everywhere.
• Compatible with our tools: You can download the PDF and fill it manually or import the same structure into our Rirekisho Builder for easier editing and instant PDF export.

Many foreigners feel lost when writing a Japanese resume, but starting with the correct structure removes the stress and helps you present yourself professionally — even if your Japanese level is still improving.

With this template, you’re not just submitting a document; you’re showing employers that you understand Japanese workplace culture and respect their expectations.

Conclusion

Creating a Japanese Rirekisho doesn’t have to be confusing. Download our free template or build one instantly using our online tool. With guided help, Japanese phrase suggestions, and smart converters, you can create a polished and professional resume even if your Japanese level is still improving.

Start your job journey in Japan with a resume that employers trust.