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When I took off the "lid"
There was growth beyond imagination.
2026.10.30
MARUHOU CO., LTD. in Aichi Prefecture began accepting foreign workers in 2022 and continues to employ them today. This time, we introduce the voices of Mr. Katayama, a director of the company, and three Vietnamese employees. (Interview conducted on July 8, 2026)
Company Profile
| location: | 446-1098 Shimokagamida, Haruki, Togo-cho, Aichi-gun, Aichi Prefecture |
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| Business details: | Various surface preparation work / waterproofing work |
| Number of employees: | 102 people |
| Acceptance status Specified Skills: 7 people (All Vietnamese) |
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| Website: | https://www.maruhou.co.jp/ |
| Initial setup: | Accommodation in dormitories (3 locations, each with a private room) Wi-Fi access |
Salary Image
- Specified Skills (monthly basic salary)
According to our company regulations
*Salary increases are given annually based on performance and other factors. - Technical Intern Training (Monthly Basic Salary)
According to our company regulations
Interview Host Companies
Director, Head of Waterproofing Department
Seiichi Katayama
What are the advantages of hiring foreign talent?
It's about approaching work with a sense of responsibility and a diligent attitude. Initially, I myself had limited their potential, thinking, "This is good enough." However, now we have employees who have passed The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry, and others who are aiming to become foremen or start their own businesses. Seeing their growth, I realize that we don't get to decide their potential.
What was your first impression of me when we met?
I was nervous at first, but I'll never forget what happened the first time they came to the head office. Even though they probably didn't have much money, the three of them chipped in and bought me a juice. I was truly surprised by their thoughtfulness, and it was at that moment that I felt they were trustworthy people.
Please tell me about hiring job changers.
We currently have foreign employees who joined us through job changes. One of them was originally a friend of ours who was Technical Intern Trainee. Although it was in the same construction industry, the job was different, so there were some initial concerns. However, thanks to the foundation he had built on construction sites, he was able to quickly learn the new job. A natural flow has developed where senior foreign employees teach newly hired foreign employees, creating a positive cycle.
Please give a message to companies that will be accepting foreign talent in the future.
Before accepting foreign employees, I was filled with anxiety and concerns about the risks involved, but in reality, I gained far more. Interacting with foreign employees has also made Japanese employees think about how to teach and communicate with them, which has contributed to the growth of the entire company. It takes time and effort at first, but if you approach it with the mindset of growing together, it will become a great asset for the company. I encourage you to take on this challenge with a positive attitude.
Voices from those working on-site
We spoke to three Vietnamese employees of the company about their work and life in Japan, as well as their future goals.
LUONG
When it comes to hand-painting with urethane, I'm second to none!
LUONG 's annual treat is going to see the cherry blossoms in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture. He seemed nervous throughout the interview, but his expression softened slightly when he said, "I'm the most confident in my hand-painting skills in the company." He worked hard with the goal of becoming a foreman and passed The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry. He is currently gaining experience as a team leader and aiming for further growth.
SON
I'm going to start a waterproofing company in Vietnam!
SON aims to start his own company in his home country, where there are few specialized waterproofing companies. He learns by watching his seniors work and actively asks questions about anything he doesn't understand. "Japanese people are kind, both at work and outside of work," he says with a smile. He struggled with questions in areas outside his expertise during The Specified Skills (ii) Evaluation Exam for Construction Industry and failed the first time, but he is determined to "try again to fulfill my future dreams!"
LU
Kanji are difficult. But I want to learn more about my job!
LU came to Japan at the recommendation of a friend and joined Maruho through LUONG 's introduction. He is fluent in Japanese, but smiles shyly and says, "I still have a long way to go." Although he struggles with kanji, he continues to study by watching YouTube videos in order to obtain Specified Skilled Worker (ⅱ). He told us that even after returning to Vietnam in the future, he would like to use the waterproofing skills he acquired in Japan to work.
