Q: GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

Japan teaching jobs for English speakers are fairly accessible , as the market for ESL teachers is continually growing. Although in recent years there has been a push to include Chinese language instruction, English is still one of the most in-demand languages in Japan. Teaching in Japan provides valuable skills in many different ways depending on the teaching placement. Many international teachers use teaching as a foot in the door to Japanese employment, moving away from education to private industry after their contracts have expired. For candidates with no previous exposure to Japanese culture, it may simply be a chance to test the waters of international English teaching or international travel and education. Whatever has sparked your interest in teaching in Japan, you will discover a thousand more reasons to love this unique island country upon your arrival!

Question 1

intro

Accepted Answer

High-rise, neon-lit cities, or quiet, lakeside forests and mountains? Fast-paced living alongside cutting-edge technology, or taking it slowly in a peaceful town, absorbing the most traditional culture? When teaching abroad in Japan, you can experience the best of both worlds as you integrate into the many contrasting sides of the country. Be overwhelmed by some of the world’s most high-tech cities and relax amongst areas of spectacular natural beauty and tranquility, and take the chance to learn from both the ancient and day-to-day culture of Japan, inside and outside of the classroom.

Question 2

Locations

Accepted Answer

Many people aspiring to teach English in Japan will gravitate towards the larger, more famous cities in Japan, including the capital. However, teaching placements are available all over the country in lesser-known, more rural areas, allowing both students and teachers to make contact with a world they might otherwise never experience. This cultural exchange might be challenging, surprising, and enlightening, and is sure to be a great opportunity for all those involved in learning about a completely new way of living.

Tokyo. Japan’s capital city seems almost impossibly fast-paced. At the heart of the world’s technological revolution, every day in Tokyo brings something new to the table, both in terms of technology and in new experiences for travelers. Getting to know such an enormous city will take some time, but the list of areas to explore (Tokyo has over 1,000 identifiable neighborhoods!) and things to see will mean newcomers will never be bored.

Kyoto. Kyoto is also a sought-after location for expats and travelers. Striking a charming balance between old and new, Kyoto’s roots in tradition play a valuable part in the everyday life of the city. With an abundance of temples, shrines, and traditional landmarks and opportunities to experience traditional Japan at its finest, travelers can make the most of the city that has retained so much of its cultural heritage, from traditional tea ceremonies to artisan crafts, clothes, and food. Here, ESL jobs in Japan will seem like a dream come true.

Akita. The Akita prefecture forms part of the the Tohoku region, in the north of Japan’s main island. This region is known for its ski resorts and natural onsens (hot springs), but isn’t yet filled with tourists, so don’t expect to run into many foreigners while teaching English in Japan. The Akita area combines smaller, but equally-interesting cities, and mountains making up a part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. The region is well-known for its stunning volcanic landscape, hot springs, and for various cultural festivals in and around Akita City.

Question 3

Job Types

Accepted Answer

Typically, teaching abroad in Japan is relegated to teaching English as a Second Language. Not all programs or companies require formal English education degrees to find employment, as the emphasis is often on building conversation skills and honing pronunciation. However, a TEFL certification can make a candidate a more appealing new hire for teaching jobs in Japan.

Public and private schools. Depending on the program, teachers may be placed in middle and high schools, but primary schools and kindergartens are also possibilities. In a private language school, teachers could find themselves teaching children who are not yet school age or teaching adults and senior citizens. However, the biggest demand for English language instruction is in middle to high schools, where students are required to study English as part of the national curriculum.

Business English. Business English is also in high demand in Japan, with many companies requiring their employees to speak a reasonably high level of English. Often, companies will pay for their staff to take English classes, and workers may appreciate the practice to improve their career prospects. However, this type of teaching position is likely to require experience of teaching business English, so inexperienced teachers are more likely to be suited to a school or language institution position.

Question 4

Salaries

Accepted Answer

When you teach English abroad in Japan, teachers’ wages will vary greatly depending on the employer and location, but the average salary ranges from around $1,500 to $5,000 USD per month. The cost of living in Japan can be higher in comparison to the United States, particularly in Tokyo, but generally employers strive to provide teachers with a good living wage. Some programs are set up to ensure all teachers receive the same compensation no matter their placement, so you can calculate your living costs even before you arrive.

Question 5

Accommodations & Visas

Accepted Answer

Many international teachers in Japan live in their own accommodations, but finding housing without the help of a local can prove to be tricky. Many programs for English teachers in Japan provide accommodation, or at least assist with the process of finding somewhere to live.

The Japanese government does have strict guidelines when it comes to internationals working in Japan. Most employers will help with the visa application process, as you will need a sponsor to obtain a working visa. The best route to obtaining a proper visa is to first find an employer while still in your home country so they can assist you. Visa processing with the Japanese embassy, while not complicated, can be time consuming, so contact your local Japanese embassy or consulate early on.

Question 6

GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

Accepted Answer

Japan teaching jobs for English speakers are fairly accessible, as the market for ESL teachers is continually growing. Although in recent years there has been a push to include Chinese language instruction, English is still one of the most in-demand languages in Japan.

Teaching in Japan provides valuable skills in many different ways depending on the teaching placement. Many international teachers use teaching as a foot in the door to Japanese employment, moving away from education to private industry after their contracts have expired. For candidates with no previous exposure to Japanese culture, it may simply be a chance to test the waters of international English teaching or international travel and education.

Whatever has sparked your interest in teaching in Japan, you will discover a thousand more reasons to love this unique island country upon your arrival!