>> since it depends on the willingness of your employer to allow them when you want them.
In Japan employers cannot refuse requested holidays unless it would damage the business (for low ranked people with no authority, this is not a problem). It is the peer pressure and subtle bullying in traditional organizations that keeps people from taking holidays.
In theory, yes. But in reality, they can pressure you not to take too long of a vacation, limiting your opportunities to go abroad on vacation, for example.
In Japan employers cannot refuse requested holidays unless it would damage the business (for low ranked people with no authority, this is not a problem). It is the peer pressure and subtle bullying in traditional organizations that keeps people from taking holidays.