In Japan, Napping at Work Is Seen as a Sign of Hard Work

In many professional environments, dozing off at your desk is a fireable offense, but in Japan, it can be viewed as a badge of honor. The practice, known as inemuri (居眠り), translates to "sleeping while present." Far from being a sign of laziness, it is often interpreted as evidence of extreme diligence—proof that an individual is so committed to their job that they have worked themselves to the point of exhaustion. This cultural acceptance is deeply tied to the nation's notoriously long working hours and the high value placed on dedication and self-sacrifice for the company.

However, this acceptance isn't without its own subtle etiquette. True inemuri requires one to remain upright, giving the impression of momentary rest rather than deep slumber in a public space like a meeting or on a train. It’s a performance of fatigue that respects the shared environment. Furthermore, social standing plays a role; a senior manager nodding off is seen as having earned the right through years of hard work, whereas a new employee doing the same might be judged more harshly. It is a nuanced social signal, communicating commitment within a culture that has historically prized grueling effort.