Teaching English remains one of the most popular ways for foreigners to live and work in Japan. Whether you're a fresh graduate looking for adventure or an experienced teacher seeking a career change, here's everything you need to know.
Types of English Teaching Jobs
1. ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)
Work in Japanese public schools alongside Japanese teachers. You'll help with pronunciation, create activities, and bring a native perspective.- Salary: ¥230,000–¥300,000/month
- Hours: Weekdays, school hours (8:00–16:00)
- Pros: Regular schedule, school holidays, cultural immersion
- Cons: Often limited teaching autonomy, varies by school
2. Eikaiwa (English Conversation School)
Private language schools like AEON, ECC, Berlitz, and GABA. You teach small groups or one-on-one lessons.- Salary: ¥250,000–¥350,000/month
- Hours: Often afternoons and evenings, some weekends
- Pros: Higher pay, more independence, urban locations
- Cons: Irregular hours, some evenings and weekends, corporate pressure
3. JET Programme
The Japanese government's flagship teaching exchange programme. Highly competitive but excellent benefits.- Salary: ¥3,360,000/year (first year)
- Contract: 1 year, renewable up to 5 years
- Pros: Best benefits package, visa sponsorship, placement support, community
- Cons: Can be placed in rural areas, long application process
- Application: Opens in October annually, starts the following August
4. University/International School
For experienced teachers with higher qualifications. Better pay and working conditions.- Salary: ¥300,000–¥600,000/month
- Requirements: Usually Master's degree + experience
- Pros: Best work-life balance, academic freedom, longer holidays
Requirements
Must-Have
- Bachelor's degree (any field) — required for the visa
- Native-level English — citizenship from an English-speaking country preferred
- Clean criminal record — background check required
Nice-to-Have
- TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate — 120+ hours recommended
- Teaching experience — gives you more options and higher pay
- Japanese language ability — not required but hugely helpful
- Patience and adaptability — essential for the job
What's the Pay Really Like?
Typical monthly budget for an English teacher in Tokyo:
| Item | Amount |
| Salary | ¥260,000 |
| Rent | -¥75,000 |
| Utilities | -¥12,000 |
| Food | -¥45,000 |
| Transport | -¥10,000 |
| Phone | -¥5,000 |
| Insurance/Tax | -¥40,000 |
| Savings | ¥73,000 |
How to Apply
1. Research positions: GaijinPot Jobs, Jobs in Japan (our listings!), JET Programme website 2. Prepare documents: Resume, cover letter, degree copy, passport photo 3. Interview: Usually via video call, sometimes in-person at recruitment fairs 4. Visa sponsorship: Your employer handles the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) 5. Arrive & onboard: Most positions start in April (school year) or September
Is It Worth It?
Teaching English in Japan is one of the most accessible ways to experience life in Japan. The pay won't make you wealthy, but the experience — cultural immersion, travel opportunities, personal growth — is invaluable. Many people who came "just for a year" are still here a decade later.
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