Japanese Business Glossary

ぶどうっ子 (budokko) refers to a product made from grapes, typically a type of confectionery or snack, in Japan. The term combines "ぶどう" (budo), meaning grape, with "っ子" (kko), a diminutive suffix often used affectionately. These grape-based products can vary widely, including items such as grape-flavored candies, dried grapes (raisins), or grape jellies. Budokko is popular as a sweet treat and can be found in various forms in stores across Japan. They are enjoyed by people of all ages and are often packaged attractively, making them a popular choice for gifts or souvenirs. The appeal of budokko lies in its sweet, fruity taste and the convenience of having a grape-based snack that can be easily enjoyed anytime.

仕掛品 (shikakehin) refers to work-in-progress (WIP) inventory in Japan. This term is used in manufacturing and production contexts to describe items that are in the process of being produced but are not yet completed. Shikakehin includes raw materials that have been partially processed and components that are in various stages of assembly. These items are not ready for sale or use because they have not yet undergone all the necessary production steps. Managing shikakehin is crucial for efficient production planning and inventory control, as it helps companies monitor the progress of their manufacturing processes, allocate resources effectively, and minimize production delays. Proper accounting of shikakehin also plays a significant role in financial reporting and cost management.

領収 (ryoshu) refers to the act of receiving or acknowledging receipt, often used in the context of financial transactions in Japan. It typically involves the issuance of a receipt or proof of payment, confirming that a specific amount of money has been received by the seller, service provider, or payee from the buyer or payer. A ryoshu (ryoshusho) is the document that serves as this receipt, detailing the amount received, the date of the transaction, and other relevant information. This practice is crucial for maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring transparency in transactions, and providing documentation for accounting and tax purposes. Proper issuance and management of ryoshu help prevent disputes and facilitate smooth business operations.

株主 (kabunushi) refers to a shareholder or stockholder in Japan. A kabunushi is an individual or entity that owns shares in a corporation, thereby holding a partial ownership stake in the company. Shareholders have certain rights and responsibilities, including the right to vote on important corporate matters, such as electing directors and approving major business decisions. They may also receive dividends, which are distributions of the company’s profits. The number of shares a kabunushi holds typically determines the extent of their influence and their share of any distributed profits. Being a kabunushi means participating in the financial success of the corporation, but it also involves the risk of losing invested capital if the company performs poorly.

介護医療保険 (kaigo iryo hoken) refers to long-term care and medical insurance in Japan. This type of insurance is designed to provide financial support for individuals who need long-term care due to age, illness, or disability, as well as covering general medical expenses. The system aims to ensure that elderly and disabled individuals receive necessary care services without imposing a significant financial burden on them or their families.

介護保険 (kaigo hoken), or long-term care insurance, specifically covers services such as in-home care, nursing home costs, and rehabilitation. It is typically funded through mandatory contributions from individuals aged 40 and over, along with government subsidies.

医療保険 (iryo hoken), or medical insurance, covers a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital visits, treatments, surgeries, and medication. This insurance is usually part of the national health insurance system, which requires all residents to enroll and pay premiums based on their income.

Together, kaigo iryo hoken provides comprehensive coverage to support the health and well-being of individuals, particularly the elderly and those with chronic conditions, ensuring they have access to necessary medical and care services.

保守的 (hoshuteki) is a Japanese word that means "conservative" in English.

It is used to describe someone or something that is traditional, cautious, and resistant to change or innovation.

In a broader sense, it can refer to political conservatism, conservative approaches in business, or even personal behavior that favors maintaining the status quo.