Tokyo Minimum Wage Rises to ¥1,280 an Hour from 1 October 2026

Tokyo’s regional minimum wage rises to ¥1,280 per hour on 1 October 2026. The increase is ¥54 an hour.

Who does the Tokyo minimum wage cover?

The regional minimum applies to workers employed in Tokyo, subject to the normal legal rules. Tokyo Labour Bureau guidance also reminds employers that probation and training periods must not fall below the applicable minimum wage.

When does the new rate start?

The new ¥1,280 hourly rate takes effect on 1 October 2026. Until then, the previous Tokyo minimum remains in force.

What should newcomers check?

If you work in Tokyo, check the hourly equivalent of your gross pay, especially if you are paid monthly, work part-time or have a fixed overtime component in your contract.

Japan’s minimum wages are regional, so the Tokyo rate is not the national rate for every prefecture. If you work outside Tokyo, check the labour bureau for that prefecture.

For more practical information, see Babylon’s Japan country guide.

Official sources

• Tokyo Labour Bureau
• Hello Work Tokyo: 2026 minimum wage notice