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Your Guide to Teaching English in Japan
When you decide to teach in Japan, you choose one of the most culturally rich and visually stunning countries in the world. Japan offers a blend of ancient tradition, cutting edge technology, peaceful countryside, neon cityscapes and some of the most memorable food on earth. Teachers come for adventure and culture, and many stay because Japan feels safe, fascinating and endlessly surprising.
Japan’s ESL industry has changed over the years, yet opportunities still exist for teachers who come prepared. You can teach English in Japan in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, or you can slow down in smaller towns, island communities or mountain regions. Wherever you go, you will find students who take learning seriously and schools that value professionalism, punctuality and clear communication!
Where you can teach in Japan
Teachers usually work in one of three major settings, and each one offers a different lifestyle and workload.
Private Conversation Schools (Eikaiwa)
Most teachers who teach English in Japan start at private conversation schools. These schools focus on speaking and listening skills, and they teach both kids and adults. Eikaiwas hire year round, offer structured training and provide predictable schedules. This route gives new teachers a smooth entry into Japanese work culture.
Kindergartens and Early Childhood Centers
Japan places strong value on early English exposure. Many kindergartens hire teachers who enjoy play based learning and want consistent hours. These roles often include songs, games, routines and active classroom management.
International Schools and Private Academies
Licensed teachers and experienced educators often choose international schools for stronger salaries and modern facilities. These schools follow global curricula and expect a high level of professionalism.
Salary and Benefits for Teachers in Japan
Japan pays fairly, although the cost of living can feel high, especially in Tokyo and other major cities. Teachers who manage their budget and plan ahead still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Typical salaries when you teach in Japan:
• Eikaiwa schools usually pay around two thousand dollars per month
• Kindergartens often fall between two thousand and three thousand dollars
• International schools pay more, usually above three thousand dollars, depending on experience
Schools may offer benefits such as:
• Visa sponsorship
• Health insurance
• Paid training
• Paid holidays
• Housing assistance or key money support
• Contract completion bonuses
• Transportation reimbursement
Most schools expect teachers to cover their own airfare to Japan, so it helps to budget for that cost while preparing to move.
Qualifications to Teach English in Japan
Schools expect teachers to show strong English fluency, professionalism and a genuine interest in Japanese culture.
Most employers look for:
• A bachelor’s degree
• A TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate
• Clear communication skills
• A clean background check
• A willingness to follow workplace expectations and punctuality
International schools often look for:
• A government issued teaching license
• Classroom experience
• Training in IB, British, or North American curricula
Living in Japan as a Teacher
Japan offers an incredible lifestyle for teachers. You can wander through ancient temples, soak in hot springs, ski powder mountains in Hokkaido, relax on Okinawa’s tropical beaches, enjoy neon Tokyo nightlife or explore quiet mountain towns that feel untouched by time.
Public transportation makes life easy. High speed trains, subways and buses connect almost every corner of the country. Many teachers join expat communities, visit foreigner friendly cafés, or stay in shared “gaijin houses” where the social scene feels lively and welcoming.
If you choose a rural placement, you may experience slower paced life and a deeper cultural immersion, and you may also stand out as the only foreign resident in the area. Many teachers find this both challenging and rewarding.
Start Your Journey and Teach in Japan
If you feel ready to teach English in Japan, Footprints Recruiting will guide you through every step. We help you understand your options, prepare a strong application, explore reputable schools and move toward the teaching experience you want.
Japan offers a rich and unforgettable chapter in your life. When you’re ready, we will help you take the first step!
Apply Now
Useful Resources for Teaching Abroad
We want you to succeed. We want you to have the experience of a lifetime, teaching in places around the world! To help you along your journey, we have curated some helpful resources below: