> Most Japanese get around 3 weeks of annual leave per year - but each day expires after 24 months. > It is quite common for leave to expire.

Japan has the same problem as the US in this case, your worth is tied to your work, the more it appears you're working hard, the more worth (and self-worth) you feel you have.

Here in Brazil, if the company let it expire, they have pay you the double.

Here in Uruguay, if you don't take your leave, the company has to compensate you (pay it as an extra worked day). Same if they fire you.

Time to move to Australia or Uruguay!

Or Denmark