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Working as an English Teacher in Japan – My Experience and What You Should Know
Welcome back to the channel! Today, I’m diving into a topic that a lot of people are curious about – working as an English teacher in Japan. Whether you’re looking coming here or just interested in what life is like here, I’ll be sharing my experience of 30 years teaching in Japan and everything you need to know before making the move!

So, why teach English in Japan? Well, Japan has long been a popular destination for foreign teachers, and for good reasons. You’ve got the rich culture, the beautiful landscapes, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a completely different environment. Plus, there’s a demand for English teachers here!
Whether you're teaching at a public school, private academy, Uni’s, company classes or even teaching adults, Japan offers a variety of teaching opportunities. It’s a great way to try something new and work abroad while also making a positive impact on students’ lives.

Now, let’s look at the Types of Teaching Jobs
There are several ways you can teach in Japan, each with its own set of pros and cons. Let me break it down for you.
Public Schools (ALT Positions):These are usually government positions where you work as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) through programs like JET or dispatch companies. You’ll mostly assist Japanese teachers in classes. The hours are regular usually 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, but usually they pay between 200,000 to 250,000 yen depending on the company you are working for.
Private Schools & Eikaiwas:These are English conversation schools which they call eikaiwas. You might teach a range of students, from kids to adults, in one-on-one or small group sessions. The pay is generally around 250,000 yen, but the hours can be more unpredictable, including evenings and weekends. Also, many them do not treat their teachers very good
Universities & Private Tutoring:For those with more experience or qualifications, teaching at universities or offering private lessons can be a lucrative option. These positions often require a higher level of education, like a Master’s degree, but the benefits and work-life balance are great.
Personally, I’ve worked in public schools and taught at companies like Toyota, Denso just to name a few. Each had its own challenges and rewards. It’s all about finding what works best for your lifestyle!

The Application Process and Visa Requirements
So, how do you even get started? The application process can be a bit daunting, but don’t worry—I’ll walk you through it.
Qualifications:Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in any field. Some jobs might prefer a TEFL or TESOL certification, especially if you’re applying for more competitive roles.
Visa Sponsorship:Schools will typically sponsor your work visa. You’ll need to secure a job offer first, and then they’ll handle most of the paperwork. However, be prepared for a lot of forms and possible delays!
The Interview:Many companies conduct interviews over Zoom or Skype. You’ll need to demonstrate your passion for teaching, understanding of Japanese culture, and how you can contribute to the school.

Living in Japan – Culture Shock and Adaptation
Living in Japan is an amazing experience, but it comes with its share of culture shock. From the language barrier to figuring out how to navigate daily life, it takes some time to adjust.
One thing I learned quickly was how efficient and clean Japan's public transportation is. However, understanding the schedules and routes? That took some getting used to!
And then there’s food shopping. The options are endless, but if you don’t read Japanese, you can use your phone with google translate and the camera it works good enough.

Salary and Cost of Living
Now let’s talk money. The salary for English teachers in Japan varies depending on the job type and location. You can expect to earn anywhere from ¥200,000 to ¥300,000 per month (that’s roughly $1,800 to $2,700 USD).
The cost of living in Japan also depends on where you are. Tokyo and Osaka are more expensive, especially when it comes to rent. But in more rural areas, your salary can go much further.
Pro tip: Eating at local places and buying seasonal produce can help stretch your budget!

Teaching Tips and Challenges
Teaching in Japan is rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are a few tips that I wish I knew before I started:
Be patient:Some students are shy, and getting them to speak can be tough. Building trust and creating a comfortable environment is key.
Incorporate fun into lessons:Japanese students, especially kids, love interactive games. Make learning fun, and you’ll see amazing results!
Understand the culture:Respect is a huge part of Japanese society, and understanding the unspoken rules in the workplace will go a long way.