What’s driving this surge? Not just love for anime or sushi. It’s smart career moves, solid pay, and a quiet strategy by Japan to deepen ties with India. One 26-year-old from Delhi got her spot after running student exchanges involving 300+ Indians and Japanese. Another from Arunachal Pradesh? She’s chasing deeper cultural insight; and a salary that beats most entry-level jobs back home. Japan’s betting big on people-to-people bonds, especially as 2027 marks 75 years of India-Japan diplomacy. And the cherry on top? Most of this year’s cohort? Women. Not just participating; leading. If you’re young, fluent or learning Japanese, and want global exposure plus financial stability; this might be your next big leap. The quietest career shift is turning into India’s biggest classroom abroad.