Monozukuri and Physical-Mental Balance: A Qualitative Study of Indonesian Students Working in Japan’s Manufacturing Sector

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the experiences of Indonesian students working in Japan’s manufacturing sector in balancing academic demands, the work culture of monozukuri, and their physical and mental well-being. The phenomenon of working students in Japan reflects the complexity of dual roles shaped by economic pressures, academic responsibilities, and a work culture that emphasizes precision, discipline, and commitment. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach and conducted interviews with 10 Indonesian students working in Japan’s manufacturing industry, who were selected through purposive sampling. The findings showed that monozukuri was internalized as a work ethic that fostered discipline and responsibility, but it also contributed to physical and mental fatigue, including burnout resulting from demanding workloads and academic responsibilities. Students experienced role imbalance due to shift-based work schedules and therefore adopted coping strategies such as time management, prioritization, and social support. These findings indicated that monozukuri functioned both as a means of character development and as a potential source of pressure. The findings imply the need for more adaptive workplace and academic support systems to help working students maintain physical and mental balance while managing their dual roles.