The kalzumeus article about business in japan, that was on HN recently, really was eye opening. I imagine maybe some of this is an extension of the parental nature of management structures in japan? Or is it just cynical "traditionally it's passed on to family, we'll just make you family".. If my boss asked to adopt me, that conversation would not go well.
http://www.kalzumeus.com/2014/11/07/doing-business-in-japan/