Misaki Harada wants to quit her job as a receptionist at a restaurant management company in Tokyo and move into marketing for an apparel-maker.

But the 24-year-old said she wanted more than just a bigger paycheck. Her next employer would need to improve her quality of life.

"If you ask me whether I prefer more money or more flexible working hours, I would choose more flexible working hours," she said. "I want to get married soon and start a family. I want to make sure I have time to take care of my children."