12 Best Internships in Tokyo for English Speakers

Tokyo is one of the most exciting destinations in the world, its popularity growing among a diverse array of travelers. What’s drawing people to Japan? Perhaps the distinct culture, traditions, temples, and tea ceremonies, or it could be the futuristic cities and transportation, the popular culture of anime, manga, and Japanese cuisine.

An abundance of internships in Tokyo for English speakers also doesn’t hurt. Tokyo is at the epicenter of Japan, its largest urban center and a dichotomy of culture and nature—hidden temples are dwarfed by modern skyscrapers, made small in turn by towering Mount Fuji.

If you can picture yourself strolling amid the cherry blossoms in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, or meeting friends in picturesque Inokashira Park, consider an internship in Tokyo for international students!

Are there paid internships in Tokyo for international students?

Internships in Japan are diverse and not always similar to what you might consider a “typical” internship experience in your home country. Short-term internships could be more like networking events while some longer-term internships are considered part of the company's onboarding process and may not be available to those who would need a visa.

Internships in Tokyo for international students, particularly internships in Tokyo for English speakers, are relatively competitive, but it’s worth going the extra mile. Japan has one of the world’s fastest growing economies, and as a world capital of business, Tokyo is the perfect place to be as an ambitious, curious, open-minded traveler. Get searching as soon as possible to secure a paid internship in Tokyo!

12 best internships in Tokyo for English speakers

Tokyo is a vibrant city full of possibilities for international students. Check out these 12 best internships in Tokyo for English speakers!

1. Tokyo Internships with Beyond Academy

• Why it’s the best: Did you know Tokyo is home to over 50 Fortune Global 500 companies? It’s seriously the place to be, and Beyond Academy guarantees a professional internship in your chosen industry! Their career development program offers a vibrant local community, personalized 1-to-1 career coaching, immersive business workshops, CV support, curated online courses, and invitations to exclusive networking events. When you’re not busy amping up your professional portfolio, join a day trip to Mount Fuji, visit Tsukiji market with fellow interns, or take a sushi cooking class.
• What? A wide range of fields including business, marketing, engineering, fashion, and many more.
• Duration? 1 month to a full year
• Read Beyond Academy reviews

2. Social Media Marketing (Community Development) with Institute for Global Studies

• Why it’s the best: Choose from two distinct tracks—working with a designated social media company that contracts out to businesses and works with industry experts to help their clients, or working with a traditional company to expand their social media presence in-house. Track one offers you the chance to hone your skills and utilize the latest social technology while track two could provide the opportunity to work with major sports teams, ecotourism companies, and exciting venues.
• What? Marketing, advertising, and PR.
• Duration? Varies
• Read Institute for Global Studies reviews

3. Teach English Abroad in Japan with a TEFL/TESOL Certification and Paid Internship with International TEFL Academy

• Why it’s the best: Are you looking for a way to travel, learn, and make a difference? Teaching abroad may be the best fit for you! You’ll come out of the experience with a TEFL/TESOL certification, teaching experience, and unforgettable moments with students, fellow teachers, and new friends. Teaching is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time in Tokyo!
• What? Education.
• Duration? 6 to 12 months
• Read International TEFL Academy reviews

4. Intern in Tokyo with Absolute Internship

• Why it’s the best: This all-inclusive program offers 24/7 onsite support, high-quality central housing, cultural activities, and group dinners. You’ll gain experience in a field of your choosing depending on your interests. Absolute Interns will help you stand out from your peers and grow professionally through career development workshops. You’ll also get to explore Tokyo with after-work activities, and Japan on day and weekend trips!
• What? Over 30 fields to choose from, including art history, civil engineering, fashion design, and more!
• Duration? 5 weeks to a full year
• Read Absolute Internship reviews

5. Internship Program in Japan by ICC Consultants

• Why it’s the best: This internship program is the best for those looking for university credits, gap year opportunities, and a fulfilling, meaningful travel experience. You’ll have the support you need while gaining experience at your dream job!
• What? A variety of fields including health sciences, economics, international relations, media, tourism, and more.
• Duration? 1 to 6 months
• Read Internship in Japan reviews

6. Tokyo Internship with Meiji Internships

• Why it’s the best: With an extended partner network, Meiji Internships offers something for everyone. You can create your journey based on your current skill set and future goals. On this internship you’ll experience all that Tokyo has to offer—from fashionable Shibuya to international Roppongi Hills. Visit ancient shrines in Asakusa and enjoy Akihabara’s “Electro City,” all while growing professionally and personally.
• What? All major industries with hundreds of host companies! From computer science to international trade.
• Duration? 2 weeks to multiple years
• Read Meiji Internships reviews

7. International Internships in Tokyo with The Intern Group

• Why it’s the best: You’ll be sure to enhance your career prospects with The Intern Group! They partner with a range of companies, organizations, and NGOs to ensure you’ll have the best possible internship in Tokyo for international students. You’ll join a network of 10,000+ alumni across the globe and have access to real-time career talks from global business leaders even after your experience.
• What? A variety of fields offered, from social work to web design.
• Duration? 1 month to a full year
• Read The Intern Group reviews

8. Internship in Japan with Asia Internship Program

• Why it’s the best: Asia Internship Program (AIP) is an award-winning provider that offers tailor-made internships based on your career interests and educational background. You’ll gain experience in an international work environment, benefit from mentoring sessions and exclusive networking events, and have the opportunity to be placed in a fully furnished apartment close to the company where you work.
• What? A wide range of options from psychology to ecology!
• Duration? 3 to 6 months
• Read Asia Internship Program reviews

9. Japan Internship Program with GoAbroad China Ltd.

• Why it’s the best: You’ll be going on a journey of self discovery with GoAbroad China Ltd! Get school credit from a GoAbroad China partner university, or just opt for personal and professional growth without worrying about the credits. A global network and unlimited support make this program a great option for anyone looking for an internship in Tokyo for international students!
• What? Fields vary, from hospitality to sports, technology, and more.
• Duration? 1 month to a full year
• Read GoAbroad China Ltd. reviews

10. Summer Global Internship in Tokyo, Japan with CIEE

• Why it’s the best: Enjoy all that Tokyo has to offer with CIEE! Spend weekends taking in a baseball game at a nearby stadium, exploring historical sites such as Meiji-jingu shrine and Senso-ji Temple, and sampling local cuisine at restaurants and food stalls throughout the city. Interested in fashion or design? Check out the latest trends in fashion districts such as Harajuku and Ginza while completing your fashion-focused internship! If architecture and engineering is more your thing, Tokyo is home to some of the most innovative contemporary architecture in the world.
• What? Communications, mathematics, science, humanities, and more!
• Duration? 1 to 3 months
• Read CIEE reviews

11. Affordable, Comprehensive Study and Intern Abroad Programs with CIS Abroad

• Why it’s the best: CIS Abroad offers affordable and comprehensive internship programs in Tokyo. This program provider goes the extra mile, offering insurance, housing, social activities, and even airport pickup! Some packages also include transportation passes and extensive off-site excursions. Whether you’re looking for a short-term program or long-term immersive experience, CIS Abroad is a great option for an internship in Tokyo for international students.
• What? A wide range of fields are offered, from accounting to theater!
• Duration? From intensive language programs for a couple of weeks to a full year
• Read CIS Abroad reviews

12. Gain invaluable life experiences as an intern in Tokyo! with CRCC Asia

• Why it’s the best: Award-winning internships in over 18 career fields at 1,000+ companies make CRCC Asia a great program provider to travel with as an intern. “89% of participants obtain a graduate-level job within three months” according to CRCC Asia—alumni also become part of a 9,000-strong professional network! Tokyo is one of the must-see cities in Japan, and living and working there for a longer period of time will allow you to explore all it has to offer, from the samurai museum to the national sumo stadium.
• What? Law, real estate, development, political science and politics, plus a multitude of other fields.
• Duration? 1 to 3 months
• Read CRCC Asia reviews

Can’t pick? Sign up for MyGoAbroad and compare these programs side-by-side for FREE

An internship in Tokyo will be a competitive addition to your resume

Internships in Tokyo for English speakers are your ticket to living in this vibrant Japanese city.

Internships in Tokyo for international students offer hands-on experiences in a city known for being business savvy, powerful, and modern. A paid internship in Tokyo will look great to hiring managers, administration offices, and prospective employers. Plus, you’re sure to create a global network, meaningful connections, lasting memories, and perhaps pick up a second language.

Being able to communicate cross-culturally is of critical importance in today’s world and increasingly valued by employers.The experiences and skills you pick up in Tokyo will continue to provide you with the tools you need to succeed in whatever your future holds.