Teaching English in JapanBack to Tefl World

Why Teach in Japan?

Japan offers more than cherry blossoms, ancient temples, and cutting-edge technology—it's a country with a deep respect for education and a long-standing tradition of welcoming English teachers. Teaching opportunities exist throughout the country, from ultra-modern cities like Tokyo and Osaka to historic Kyoto, coastal areas, and peaceful rural communities nestled in mountains and countryside.

You'll find that Japanese students often arrive with strong grammar foundations and reading skills but may be hesitant to speak. Your role is to build their confidence and fluency through conversation practice and creating a comfortable, low-pressure environment where making mistakes is part of learning. Living in Japan means experiencing a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern life: from bullet trains and robot cafés to traditional tea ceremonies and seasonal festivals.

Whether you're planning a year abroad through the prestigious JET Programme or building a long-term teaching career, Japan offers competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and an exceptionally high quality of life. The country's safety, efficient public transportation, four distinct seasons, and unparalleled culinary experiences make it one of the world's most rewarding places to teach English.

Requirements and Qualifications

Education & Certification

Most teaching positions in Japan require a bachelor's degree in any field. A recognized 120-hour TEFL/TESOL certification will significantly improve your job prospects and earning potential. CELTA qualifications are particularly valued by premium employers.

For public school positions through programs like JET or private dispatch companies, your degree subject doesn't need to be education-related. However, international schools and universities typically require teaching qualifications, education degrees, or advanced credentials (master's or doctorate).

Teaching Experience

Entry-level positions are widely available for first-time teachers, though experienced educators typically command higher salaries and have access to more prestigious positions. Many language schools welcome new teachers and provide training and support.

Language Requirements

Japanese language skills are not required for most English teaching positions, though basic Japanese will dramatically improve your daily life and cultural integration. Programs like JET do not require Japanese proficiency, though it's beneficial. For mainstream teaching positions or university roles, intermediate Japanese may be preferred or required.

Age and Nationality

Most programs have no upper age limit, though some employers prefer younger teachers. Native English speakers from countries like the USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa are typically preferred, though some employers welcome non-native speakers with high proficiency.

Visas & Work Permits

• Instructor Visa (Most Common for English Teachers)
• This is the standard work visa for English teachers in Japan. Requirements include:
• Bachelor's degree (in any field)
• Job offer from a Japanese employer willing to sponsor your visa
• The employer handles most of the visa application process
• Processing time: Typically 1-3 months
• Valid for 1-5 years depending on circumstances
• Renewable as long as employment continues

Specialist in Humanities Visa

For teachers at international schools, universities, or corporate training positions. Similar requirements to the Instructor Visa but may require higher qualifications or specific expertise.

Working Holiday Visa

Available to citizens aged 18-30 (sometimes 18-25) from countries with bilateral agreements with Japan (including UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and others). This visa:

• Allows 12 months in Japan
• Permits part-time teaching work
• Ideal for exploring Japan while gaining teaching experience
• Not renewable or extendable
• Cannot be used for full-time, long-term employment
• Important Note on Visa Sponsorship

Most employers require you to already be in Japan or handle visa sponsorship as part of the hiring package. Programs like JET, major eikaiwa chains (AEON, ECC, Berlitz), and international schools typically provide full visa sponsorship support.

When to Apply

The Japanese academic year runs from April to March, but hiring happens year-round depending on the employer type:

• October-December: Peak hiring season for April start dates (especially for JET Programme and public schools)
• JET Programme: Applications typically open in October/November and close in late January/February, with departure in July/August
• January-March: Second hiring season for April positions
• Year-round: Private language schools (eikaiwas) hire continuously as student enrollment fluctuates
• Summer months: Some hiring for September/October start dates

For JET Programme applicants, start your application process 9-12 months before your desired departure date. For private language schools, you can often secure positions 1-3 months before arrival.

Where to Teach

Tokyo

Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolitan area offers the highest concentration of teaching opportunities. From public schools to prestigious international schools, private eikaiwa chains, corporate business English, and private tutoring, Tokyo has it all. Salaries are higher to offset living costs. You'll have endless access to museums, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural experiences. The large expat community provides strong support networks, though competition for premium positions is fierce.

Osaka

Japan's second-largest city and the heart of the Kansai region, known for its friendly people, incredible street food (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), and vibrant entertainment districts. Teaching opportunities span public schools, language institutes, and universities, with living costs notably lower than Tokyo while maintaining big-city amenities.

Kyoto

Japan's ancient capital and cultural heart, famous for classical Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, imperial palaces, traditional wooden houses, and exquisite gardens. Teaching positions are available in language schools, universities, and international schools, often with a focus on cultural exchange and hospitality English due to high tourism. Perfect for teachers seeking deep cultural immersion.

Yokohama

Just 30 minutes from Tokyo by train, Yokohama offers a more relaxed pace than the capital while maintaining excellent job opportunities and urban conveniences. Lower living costs than Tokyo with easy access to the capital when needed.

Fukuoka

Kyushu's largest city, known for excellent ramen, proximity to beaches and mountains, and a growing international community. More affordable than Tokyo or Osaka, with good teaching opportunities and a reputation as one of Japan's most liveable cities.

Sapporo & Hokkaido

Japan's northern island offers a completely different experience, with heavy snowfall, winter sports, unique cuisine, and stunning natural scenery. Teaching opportunities in cities and smaller towns, ideal for nature lovers and winter enthusiasts.

Rural & Countryside Placements

Many ALT positions place teachers in small towns and rural areas, particularly through the JET Programme. These positions offer deeper cultural immersion, incredibly low living costs (sometimes with subsidized housing as low as ¥20,000/month), and the chance to be the only foreigner in the community. Perfect for adventurous teachers seeking authentic Japanese experiences, though social life may be quieter.

Types of Teaching Jobs & Salaries

Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) - Public Schools

Work alongside Japanese teachers in elementary, junior high, or high schools. Large classes, structured curriculum, school events and activities.

JET Programme ALTs: ¥280,000-330,000/month ($1,900-2,200 USD) with annual raises, comprehensive benefits including flight reimbursement, orientation, health insurance, and strong support network. Considered the gold standard for ALT positions.

Dispatch Company ALTs: ¥230,000-270,000/month ($1,550-1,800 USD), fewer benefits than JET, more variable depending on company.

Private Language Schools (Eikaiwa)

Teach at conversation schools like AEON, ECC, Berlitz, GABA, or Nova. Smaller classes, focus on conversation and practical English, flexible schedules, evening and weekend work common.

Salary range: ¥240,000-300,000/month ($1,600-2,000 USD). Some schools offer performance bonuses. Benefits vary by employer but may include visa sponsorship, training, and flight reimbursement.

International Schools

Requires teaching license and education degree. Smaller classes, international curriculum (IB, American, British), comprehensive benefits packages.

Salary range: ¥300,000-600,000+/month ($2,000-4,000+ USD) depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits typically include housing allowances, health insurance, professional development, and generous holiday time.

Universities & Colleges

Part-time or full-time positions teaching academic English, conversation classes, or English for Specific Purposes. Light teaching loads (10-15 contact hours/week), academic environment, mature students.

Requirements: Master's degree preferred, often PhD for tenure-track positions. Teaching experience and published research highly valued.

Salary range: ¥300,000-600,000/month ($2,000-4,000 USD) depending on qualifications and position type. Generous vacation time (often 3 months annually for full-time positions).

Business English

Corporate training for company employees, typically in groups or one-on-one. Work-related topics like presentations, email writing, phone calls, meetings.

Hourly rates: ¥3,500-6,000/hour ($24-40 USD). Part-time positions common, often supplementing other teaching work.

Private Tutoring

One-on-one or small group lessons. Set your own schedule and rates. High demand in major cities, particularly for exam preparation (Eiken, TOEFL, IELTS).

Hourly rates: ¥3,000-8,000/hour ($20-55 USD) depending on experience, qualifications, and location.

Cost of Living

Living expenses in Japan vary dramatically between major cities and regional areas. Tokyo is Japan's most expensive city, with rent and daily costs significantly higher than other locations. Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama are moderately expensive, while regional cities like Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Sapporo offer better value. Rural and countryside placements can be remarkably affordable, especially with employer-provided housing.

Housing

Rent is typically your largest expense and varies enormously by location. Tokyo city center apartments are premium-priced and notoriously small, while rural placements may offer subsidized teacher housing at a fraction of market rates. Most apartments require substantial upfront costs including key money (reikin), deposit (shikikin), and agent fees—potentially 4-6 months' rent initially.

Many teachers in expensive cities choose sharehouses or guesthouses initially to save money and build community. JET participants and some eikaiwa teachers receive housing support or subsidized accommodation.

Utilities & Internet

Electricity costs vary seasonally—expect higher bills in summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating). Water is often included in rent. Internet is reasonably priced and reliable. Monthly utilities typically manageable on a teaching salary.

Food & Groceries

Eating out at local restaurants is remarkably affordable for Japanese cuisine—ramen, curry rice, teishoku (set meals) often cost ¥600-1,000. Western restaurants and imported foods are expensive. Shopping at local markets, discount supermarkets, and avoiding convenience stores saves significant money. Cooking at home is the most budget-friendly option.

Transportation

Japan's public transportation is world-class, and most employers provide commuter pass reimbursement or allowances. Without employer coverage, monthly passes cost ¥5,000-15,000 depending on distance. Cars are generally unnecessary in cities and expensive to maintain (parking, tolls, insurance).

Overall Budget

As a general guideline, budget ¥150,000-250,000+ monthly for comfortable living in major cities (excluding rent). Regional cities might require ¥100,000-180,000 monthly, while rural areas can be even lower. Your actual costs depend heavily on location, lifestyle, and whether you have employer-provided housing.

Teachers can typically save ¥50,000-150,000+ monthly ($300-1,000 USD) depending on location and spending habits.

Plan Your Budget:

For current, detailed cost-of-living information tailored to specific Japanese cities, we recommend using these resources:

• Numbeo - Japan - Compare costs across Japanese cities
• Japan Guide - Cost of Living - Comprehensive cultural and practical information
• Online expat forums and Facebook groups for real teacher experiences and advice

These tools provide up-to-date figures and allow you to compare your home country's costs with your intended Japanese destination.

Classroom & Cultural Tips

Professional Expectations

Japanese schools highly value punctuality, preparation, and professionalism. Arrive 5-10 minutes early daily—being on time is being late. Dress conservatively and professionally (business casual minimum, often full business attire). Respect the hierarchy in the staff room and use proper honorifics (sensei for teachers, appropriate titles for administrators).

Teaching Strategies

Building Confidence in Shy Students: Japanese culture values group harmony and avoiding mistakes, so students often hesitate to speak. Create low-pressure environments with pair work, role-plays, games, and activities that make speaking fun rather than intimidating. Praise effort, not just accuracy.

Grammar vs. Communication: Students typically have strong grammar foundations but weak speaking fluency. Focus on practical communication, natural conversation, and real-world language use rather than grammar drills.

Encouraging Participation: Japanese students rarely volunteer answers. Calling on students is standard practice, though do so supportively. Some activities work better with group consensus rather than individual responses.

Strategic Japanese Use: While English immersion is the goal, occasional Japanese explanations help beginners grasp complex concepts. However, always encourage students to try expressing themselves in English first.

Cultural Etiquette in Schools

Shoes and Slippers: Change to indoor shoes/slippers when entering schools. Never wear outdoor shoes inside.

Bowing: Learn basic bowing etiquette—light bows for greetings, deeper bows for thanks or apologies.

Staff Room Hierarchy: Respect senpai-kohai (senior-junior) relationships. Defer to experienced teachers and administrators.

Greetings: Students often greet teachers in unison at the start of class (standing, bowing, sitting). Follow established routines.

Cleaning Time (O-soji): Students clean classrooms, hallways, and school facilities daily. This is character education, not punishment.

School Events: Expect participation in sports days (undokai), cultural festivals, field trips, and ceremonies. These are valuable bonding opportunities.

Work-Life Balance

Japanese work culture involves long hours and visible dedication, though teaching positions often have more reasonable schedules. Eikaiwa teachers may work evenings and weekends. ALTs typically have school holidays off but may be required at school during breaks. University positions offer generous vacation time.

Enkai (staff parties) are important for team building—attendance is encouraged and shows commitment to the team. These social events strengthen workplace relationships.

Cultural Integration

Language Learning: Even basic Japanese dramatically improves daily life and shows respect for the culture.

Honne vs. Tatemae: Understand that what people say publicly (tatemae) may differ from private thoughts (honne). Communication is often indirect to maintain harmony.

Gift Giving: Small gifts (omiyage) when returning from trips are customary and appreciated by colleagues.

Avoiding Conflict: Directness is often seen as rude. Learn to read between the lines and communicate diplomatically.

Group Mentality: Decisions are often consensus-based. Individual achievement is downplayed in favor of group success.

Practical Adjustments

Apartments are significantly smaller than Western standards—storage is limited and minimalism is essential. Garbage sorting is complex and strictly enforced. Quiet hours and neighbor consideration are taken very seriously. Summer heat and humidity can be intense, while winter temperatures vary dramatically by region.

Ready to Start Your Japanese Adventure?

Teaching English in Japan combines professional growth with profound cultural immersion. Whether you're drawn to Tokyo's electric energy, Kyoto's timeless beauty, or rural community life, Japan offers rewarding opportunities for qualified teachers. Research program options early (JET applications take nearly a year), prepare your qualifications, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most fascinating countries.