Types of teaching jobs in Japan
There are 4 main types of English teaching jobs in Japan with varying application requirements and hiring seasons. Keep reading to see which one is right for you and your teaching goals!
The JET Programme
The Japanese government has been running the JET programme since the late ‘80s. (JET stands for Japan Exchange and Teaching.) Native English speakers are placed as Assistant Language Teachers in public schools across Japan. JETs usually work a 35 hour week from Monday to Friday, and you will need a bachelor’s degree to be considered. The hiring calendar varies by the home country of applicants.
English teachers in Japan can earn an annual salary of about $27,000 during their first year in the JET programme. From there, your pay increases every year you renew your contract.
Private language academies/schools
Companies like AEON and ECC are constantly looking for teaching staff. Many of these positions involve relatively long hours, and some will require you to work evenings and weekends. With these private companies, there is a higher likelihood (than with JET) that you will be placed in a large city. You will need a bachelor’s degree to be considered. The hiring calendar varies by company.
Public schools
Some public schools recruit privately or source teachers through organizations such as Interac. A 30-35 hour workweek is common. Leave entitlements can vary significantly depending on the individual school or company you are recruited through. Some public schools prefer their teachers to have a CELTA/TEFL qualification and/or teaching experience. You can apply to work year-round, however, peak hiring season is January through April.
Private lessons
Many foreign nationals give private lessons, often teaching in cafes one-on-one with students. There are no qualifications required for this, though you will need to ensure any work you do is compatible with your immigration status. There is more potential business in the large cities, particularly for anyone looking to do this as a full-time job.
Average salary and benefits
On average, English teachers in Japan can expect to earn a salary between $1,700 - $5,000 USD monthly. The salary you earn while teaching in Japan typically depends on your experience, the type of school you’re working at, and your credentials.
For example, university positions tend to be the highest paying, but require stricter qualifications such as a TEFL certification, master’s degree, or prior teaching experience.
Common teacher benefits
Compared to other major teaching destinations, Japan is known to have some of the best and most comprehensive benefit packages. Below are some of the benefits you can expect while teaching English in Japan:
- Housing
- Flight reimbursement
- Transportation passes
- Cell phone SIM cards
- Free meals (at the school)
Read more: How Much Money Can You Save Teaching Abroad?
Cost of living in Japan
It’s no secret that Japan is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Living costs are high, but with the generous salaries and benefits, it's still possible to have a reasonable standard of living! The following is an estimation of how much it will cost you to live per month, based on your personal preferences and lifestyle:
- Food: $80 - $100 (depends on how much you eat out or spend on groceries)
- Transportation: $68 for a monthly public transportation pass
- Entertainment (movies, bars/clubs, etc): $50
- Housing: ~$769 one bedroom apartment in the city center
Source: Numbeo
Where to teach English in Japan
As with starting a job in any new country, it's important to do your research before coming to Japan. Start by exploring these major teaching cities in Japan.
Tokyo
Teachers in Tokyo are in high-demand, with Japanese schools requiring children to learn English, as well as many top companies encouraging their employees to take English lessons. Living and teaching in Tokyo is sure to be an exciting experience, packed with plenty of things to do and see, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife scene!
Osaka
Being Japan’s second largest metropolitan area as well as the country’s street food capital, Osaka is a popular destination for both tourism and teachers looking to teach English in Japan. Compared to Tokyo, teaching jobs are not as competitive, although having prior teaching experience or a TEFL certification is still highly recommended.
How to get a job teaching English in Japan
Ready to start searching and applying for teaching jobs in Japan? Getting a teaching job abroad can be competitive. Below we've outlined all you need to know to prepare for application season and learn how to become an English teacher in Japan.
When to apply
When applying for teaching jobs in Japan, aim to apply around March-April, and in August, as those are the start of public school semesters and hiring season. For private language schools, you can apply year-round!
Working visas in Japan
A working visa is generally required to teach English in Japan. Many language schools will sponsor your visa application, and you will usually need a bachelor’s degree to be granted a working visa. Some countries also have arrangements whereby you can obtain a working holiday visa, which allows you to teach part-time. To learn more about Japanese visas, visit VISA HQ.
Common qualifications to teach in Japan
The requirements to teach in Japan may vary depending on the school you’re applying to teach at, however, most employers look for candidates with the following qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree is essential for any formal teaching job in Japan, but any major will suffice!
- Native English speaker: You must be a native English speaker from one of the following seven countries: U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa.
- CELTA/TEFL qualification: Some public schools and private recruiters prefer candidates with a CELTA/TEFL qualification, and it is encouraged if you want higher pay or are looking to apply to a more competitive school. Getting certified can also boost your confidence as a teacher!
- Previous teaching experience: Not a must, but definitely preferred by some schools!
- International driver’s license: This may not apply to every teaching job in Japan, but you may notice some schools require their teachers to have driving licenses, since teachers may be asked to drive company cars to different branches of the school.
Read more: What are the Requirements to Teach English Abroad?
Classroom culture in Japan
As an ESL teacher abroad, it’s essential that you take the time to research the country’s etiquette and classroom culture, as it can be vastly different from what you’re used to at home! Remember that you’re a visitor in the country you’re teaching in, so come in with respect and curiosity!
Here are a few important tips to know before teaching English in Japan:
- If you are teaching adults, you may be able to socialize with them outside lessons, though some private companies prohibit this.
- Some high schools and private companies will require you to dress up and wear a suit when you teach lessons. Those who teach elementary school students are usually able to dress more casually, though.
- While teaching English in Japan, you'll be exposed to a different culture, work environment, and social customs, such as bowing, gift-giving, and style of compliments. It will take some time to adjust to, and nobody will expect you to get everything right the first time, but you will be expected to make an effort.
- The Japanese workplace tends to be formal and punctual -- professionalism is important!
Ready to find your dream teaching program in Japan?
Start researching and comparing teaching jobs here at Go Overseas, in the Teaching Programs in Japan section below.
Want to read more? Get started with these articles:
- Why Should I Teach in Japan?
- How to Get a Job Teaching English in Japan
- The 7 Best Cities to Teach Abroad in Japan
FAQs
How much does teaching English in Japan make? ›
As an ESL teacher in Japan, you can expect to earn anywhere between 200,000 and 600,000 Yen ($1,700 - 5,000 USD) per month. Hourly tutoring rates hover around 3,000 Yen ($28 USD) per hour. Like in China, Japan often offers teachers flights, accommodation, and training included in their salary packages.
Is it hard to become an English teacher in Japan? ›Higher Education
There are many English teaching jobs available in universities throughout Japan. However, acquiring these jobs can be difficult, especially if you are outside of the country. Many of these jobs will require a master's degree or higher for consideration.
Japan has been a popular destination for teaching English abroad for many years. This is mainly due to the country's vibrant culture, the great food and friendly locals. Japan has a lot to offer and it can be overwhelming to find the ideal city to move to.
How in demand are English teachers in Japan? ›There's high demand for ESL teachers in Japan, and plenty of students need teachers, but not at any cost. TEFL certification will, in Japan or anyone else, provide demonstrable proof to schools that you have the skills for a job teaching English.
What country pays English teachers the most? ›- South Korea ($1,150-$2,650 USD a month)
- China ($1,200-$2,600 USD a month)
- Japan ($1,700-$2,600 USD a month)
- Taiwan ($2,000-$3,000 USD a month)
- Gulf Arab States ($2,000-$5,000 USD a month)
- Honorable Mention: Vietnam ($1,500-$2,000 USD a month)
Living in Japan is about three times as expensive as living in the US. Living costs in the main cities are significantly higher than in the more rural side. Japan is in the top 10 of the most expensive countries to live in.
What qualifications do I need to teach English in Japan? ›To teach English in Japan, you will need a TEFL certification and a 4-year college degree. You must be a native English speaker without a criminal record. You can expect an average salary of about $2,500 - $3,000 USD per month.
Can I teach English in Japan without knowing Japanese? ›You don't need to speak Japanese to teach English in Japan. Your classroom will be held entirely in English to fully immerse your students. However, you can learn Japanese if you wish, and many schools offer free Japanese lessons for teachers.
How many hours do English teachers work in Japan? ›Japan TEFL Hours
Schools in Japan offer approximately 20 to 30 hours of classroom work per week plus additional hours for prep time. This allows for plenty of time to travel and explore.
Most first-time English teachers in Japan get paid between 247,700 and 286,200 Yen ($2,250 - $2,600 USD) per month. First-year participants teaching English in Japan on the JET Program earn an average monthly salary of 280,000 Yen ($2,550 USD) per month with yearly wage increases.
Are teachers in Japan respected? ›
Respect for Teachers in Japan
Teachers and school administrators are held in very high esteem in Japan.
The Japanese Salary Range. The average monthly salary for employees in Japan can range from approximately 130,000 JPY (1,128 USD) to 2,300,000 JPY (19,963 USD). Note: The upper range of salaries is the highest average and not the maximum salary Japanese people earn.
Is a TEFL certificate worth it? ›Is TEFL Certification worth it? Yes. If you want to get a good teaching job and be an effective teacher for your students, then it is definitely worth it. Remember, most schools worldwide require a TEFL certification; and once you're certified you can the ball rolling on applying and interviewing for jobs.
How old do you have to be to teach English in Japan? ›There's no age limit for obtaining a work visa to teach English. However, older teachers may struggle to score a contract at a local school or institute. In Japan, most people retire at the spritely young age of 60—much earlier than in the West.
How long can you teach English in Japan? ›Normally teaching contracts in Japan last anywhere from six months to a year. But, if you're not ready to commit to living there that long, you can always start out small with a short-term summer job in Japan to get a real feel for living and teaching overseas.
Which country needs teachers the most? ›China. Based on many studies, China runs at the top of the list. China has continued to be the most sought-after teaching destination right now because it has almost 300 million English learners.
Is TEFL difficult? ›Generally speaking TEFL is not hard to pass. Face-to-face courses generally have interviews and strict admission requirements so if it is not likely to complete or pass the course, they will not be admitted in the first place.
How quickly can I get a TEFL Certificate? ›Typically, a fully accredited TEFL certification course will last anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months. Shorter, 4-week long courses will generally run full-time (30-40 hours per week) and are very demanding.
Is it cheaper to live in America or Japan? ›The average cost of living in Japan ($1171) is 45% less expensive than in the United States ($2112). Japan ranked 43rd vs 6th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.
What is the cheapest city to live in Japan? ›Kyoto and Kawasaki are among the cheapest places to rent in Japan, and Tsushima city and Fukuoka boast some of the lowest living costs for utilities, groceries, and eating out.
How much is a Coke in Japan? ›
| Restaurants | Edit |
|---|---|
| Cappuccino (regular) | 434.66¥ |
| Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) | 151.10¥ |
| Water (12 oz small bottle) | 111.76¥ |
| Markets | Edit |
Working in Japan without a degree
It is possible to work in Japan without a degree, but it makes things a little difficult and requires you to hustle and network, which are more appealing to some personality types than others. However, for those willing to put in the effort, it can be a good opportunity.
Teach in Japan
It is possible to get a job in Japan as a non-native speaker, but it's not easy. If you can prove you've received twelve consecutive years of English-only education, and you have a four-year college degree (in English), you may be eligible for a job in Japan.
IELTS Vs TEFL
However, the two English teaching certificates are not mutually exclusive. To put it simply, having an IELTS does not mean you shouldn't get a TEFL and vice versa. In my experience, holding both a TEFL and IELTS is a powerful combination to get hired and find students.
Working, living, and traveling in Japan without speaking Japanese is feasible, and there are countless examples of foreigners doing so. Having said that, learning Japanese will put you at an exceptional advantage in both your professional life and daily life.
Is it easy for foreigners to live in Japan? ›The process of moving to Japan is easy as long as you are prepared. In general, expats can move most household goods into the country without a problem. It is a good idea to have an itemized list in both English and Japanese.
Can an English speaker live in Japan? ›Yes, you can live in Japan without speaking JapaneseBased on various experiences, you can live in Japan without speaking Japanese. In fact, the majority of the foreigners living in and enjoying Japan today came into the country with little or no knowledge of the Japanese language.
Do English teachers get free housing in Japan? ›Countries Where Some (But Not All!) Schools Provide Free Housing or a Housing Stipend for English Teachers. Asia: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and in limited cases in other Asian nations as well.
Can you live off of being an English teacher in Japan? ›English teachers in Japan can expect to make a base salary of ¥250,000 per month. (106 yen is currently roughly $1; xe.com offers a good online currency converter). Depending on what type of housing you choose, your monthly housing can range from ¥50,000–¥80,000 including utilities.
How can I teach English in Japan without a degree? ›- A college degree.
- Native English proficiency.
- Teaching experience.
- A TEFL certificate.
- An outgoing, positive, and energetic personality.
Do Japanese English teachers make good money? ›
Most first-time English teachers in Japan get paid between 247,700 and 286,200 Yen ($2,250 - $2,600 USD) per month. First-year participants teaching English in Japan on the JET Program earn an average monthly salary of 280,000 Yen ($2,550 USD) per month with yearly wage increases.
What is a good salary in Japan? ›A.
The average monthly salary for employees in Japan can range from approximately 130,000 JPY (1,128 USD) to 2,300,000 JPY (19,963 USD). Note: The upper range of salaries is the highest average and not the maximum salary Japanese people earn.
...
Project-Based Translators.
| LANGUAGE PAIR | YEN/WORD | YEN/HOUR |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese-English | ¥12,65 | ¥3.800 |
| Japanese-Spanish | ¥11,60 | ¥3.620 |
| Japanese-French | ¥11,60 | ¥3,464 |
A Bachelor's degree/diploma from an accredited college or university (4 years in the U.S./3 years in the U.K.) is required to teach English in Japan. This degree does not need to be in Education.
Can you live in Japan as an English teacher? ›A working visa is generally required to teach English in Japan. Many language schools will sponsor your visa application, and you will usually need a bachelor's degree to be granted a working visa. Some countries also have arrangements whereby you can obtain a working holiday visa, which allows you to teach part-time.
Can you live off of being an English teacher in Japan? ›English teachers in Japan can expect to make a base salary of ¥250,000 per month. (106 yen is currently roughly $1; xe.com offers a good online currency converter). Depending on what type of housing you choose, your monthly housing can range from ¥50,000–¥80,000 including utilities.
Do English teachers get free housing in Japan? ›Countries Where Some (But Not All!) Schools Provide Free Housing or a Housing Stipend for English Teachers. Asia: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and in limited cases in other Asian nations as well.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Japan? ›...
Cost of Living Expenses.
| Food | ¥38,257 |
|---|---|
| Other expenses | ¥6,576 |
| Excess entertainment expenses | ¥12,934 |
| Total expenditures | ¥148,351 |
But how do you define a rich person in Japan? According to Atsushi Miura, who last year published a book titled “The New Rich,” the financial industry considers a person to be wealthy if their yearly income is over ¥30 million and they have assets of at least ¥100 million.
How much can a foreigner earn in Japan? ›What is the average salary in Japan? The short answer is very simple. According to Doda, the yearly average salary in Japan in 2021 is 4,530,000 Yen/ 41,000 USD.
Can I work in Japan without speaking Japanese? ›
Can I Really Work in Japan Without Knowing Any Japanese? The short answer is yes, but it's not that simple. You can get a job without needing Japanese, and that job doesn't have to be only an English teacher. You have more limited options, and they depend largely on your skills and the current job market trend.
Which language earns the most money? ›Of all the foreign lingos making headway in the industry, Chinese (Mandarin) is the highest-paid language. A person who speaks Chinese receives as much as an Rs. Million-plus yearly.
Is Japanese language in demand? ›Not only there is a high demand for Japanese specialists, but the competition is also relatively low due to the complexity of the language. Among Foreign languages in India, Japanese language classes in India are one of the most sought after. The scope is immense.
Can you teach English in Japan with tattoos? ›Expectations for dress and appearance will vary by region and culture. If you're planning to teach English in Japan with tatoos, for example, you will find schools that prohibit teachers from having visible tattoos largely due to the cultural association tattoos have with the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia).
Which jobs are in demand in Japan? ›- #1: Web Application Engineer.
- #2: Mobile Application Engineer.
- #3: Data Scientist.
- #4: Infrastructure Engineer.
- #5: DevOps Engineer.
- Reason (1): The evolution of IT technology.
- Reason (2): Declining birth rate and ageing population.
- Reason (3): Backward IT education in Japan.
You do not need a TEFL, CELTA, or TESOL qualification to get a job teaching English in Japan, but it is progressively more important to have one, just as it is worldwide.