same story for one of my friend, he left to work in Japan for sony in 1999 and he is still holding a working visa even after 16 years
Then he told me rhe status of residence does not exist in Japan
Your friend has to apply for status change to permanent resident.
Here are steps! It's not that hard!
Application for Permanent Residence
Btw @jhungary , when your friend received approval for permanent resident, a requisite for naturalization is that he or she must live in Japan for 5 years, have financial ability to survive, must know Japanese language and he or she must denounce his or her other nationality. There is no dual nationality in Japan nor does the Japanese government recognize it. After these requisites are satisfied, naturalization happens.
Now the person becomes Japanese National. Also, he or she must take up a Japanese Name.
There is no guangdongguo. It's Guangdong Province.
Kindly remind you to watch your words. It's about the accuracy that a PhD should take care or it will lead to a trick as you know.
BTW, very fantastic picture.
I apologize for the improper use of wording , I meant Guangdong Province / Prefecture .