How to Become an English Teacher in Japan: The Ultimate Guide to a Rewarding Career

Teaching English in Japan can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while sharing your language skills and positively impacting the lives of students. If you're considering a career as an English teacher in Japan, here's a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

Steps to Become an English Teacher in Japan

To qualify as an English teacher in Japan, you'll typically need the following credentials:

Bachelor's degree in any field

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification

Native or near-native English proficiency

Obtaining a TEFL Certification

TEFL certifications provide the necessary training to effectively teach English as a foreign language. They typically cover topics such as lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching methodologies. There are various TEFL providers to choose from, offering both online and in-person courses.

TEFL Certification Provider	Course Duration	Cost
BridgeTEFL	120 hours	$249
International TEFL Academy	120 hours	$299
Oxford TEFL	130 hours	$349

Benefits of Teaching English in Japan

High Demand: Japan has a high demand for qualified English teachers due to the increasing need for English proficiency among Japanese people.

Competitive Salaries: English teachers in Japan can earn competitive salaries, especially in private schools and language academies. According to the Japan Association for Language Teaching (JALT), the average annual salary for English teachers in Japan is around 4.5 million yen ($38,000).

Cultural Immersion: Teaching English in Japan offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand, interact with locals, and gain a deeper understanding of the country.

Professional Development: Teaching English in Japan can be an excellent opportunity to develop your teaching skills and gain valuable experience in a different教育 system.

How to Find a Job as an English Teacher in Japan

Job Boards: Visit job boards such as GaijinPot and Indeed Japan to search for English teaching jobs.

Recruiting Agencies: Contact recruiting agencies that specialize in placing foreign teachers in Japan, such as Interac and Aeon.

Networking: Attend industry events and connect with other English teachers in Japan to hear about potential job openings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not obtaining a TEFL certification: TEFL certification is essential for demonstrating your qualifications as an English teacher.

Assuming you don't need to learn Japanese: While it's not a requirement, having a basic understanding of Japanese can greatly enhance your teaching experience.

Expecting a luxurious lifestyle: Salaries for English teachers in Japan are competitive, but it's important to manage your expectations and budget accordingly.

FAQs About Teaching English in Japan

What are the visa requirements? Most English teachers in Japan obtain a Working Holiday Visa, which allows them to stay and work in Japan for up to 12 months. After that, you may need to consider other visa options, such as the Instructor Visa.

Is it difficult to get a job? Finding a job as an English teacher in Japan can be competitive, but with the right qualifications and preparation, it's certainly possible.

How long does it take to get a TEFL certification? TEFL certification courses typically take between 6 and 8 weeks to complete.

Embarking on a career as an English teacher in Japan can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering both personal and professional growth. By following the steps outlined in this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can increase your chances of success in this exciting and dynamic field.

How to Become an English Teacher in Japan: The Ultimate Guide to a Rewarding Career