rififi1976@lycos.com wrote:
> My visa is a "specialist in humanities" work visa valid for three
> years.
> I also have a multiple re-entry permit.

In which case I don't thing you would be likely to receive a new
landing permit on return unless you were returning to the same
job/employer, had documentation regarding the reason for the extended
absence, and had either 5 years plus in Japan or family here. OTOH you
*may* get lucky, so it would be worth contacting immigration in advance
to find out. You don't need to contact the tax office, because all
depends on the visa in any case.