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.