Japan continues to be one of the most popular destinations for English teachers wishing to teach abroad. Even as one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, Japan offers unprecedented access to culture and tradition.
Whether you are interested in Japanese art, cinema, anime, language, culture, taiko drumming, zen temples, or Harajuku madness, Japan will have something for you. For outdoor enthusiasts, Japan offers endless opportunities for sports including surfing, skiing, hiking, and biking. Expect to be taken aback by busy subway station, surprised as you are welcomed by the elegant formality of Japanese manners, and awestruck by the enchanting atmosphere of Japanese castles.
Japan Interviews
All applicants for public school teaching positions must be interviewed in person. Teachers are invited to interviews only after successfully passing the initial resume and telephone screening phases. Please apply at least two weeks prior to the interview date. Our upcoming interview sessions are as follows:
*Subject to change
| Country | Interview City | Interview Dates* |
|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | Future interview dates not yet announced |
Before you attend an interview, please be sure to read the Interview Tips & Techniques to learn about the most common interview dos and don’ts.
Public School Jobs in Japan
Teaching as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) within the Japanese public school system allows teachers to experience Japan in a very unique way. ALTs work alongside a Japanese teacher in elementary or junior high schools. With a structured schedule and extensive vacation time, public school ESL jobs allow you to explore Japan outside of your classroom. Contracts start in April and September and run until late March of the following year (i.e. March 2010-2011 or August 2009-March 2010). Experience the “real” Japan while gaining valuable teaching experience. This job is especially good for those who wish to pursue teaching as a profession. Learn more about public school jobs in Japan.
Private School Jobs in Japan
Working for private language institutes in Japan is perfect for those who have a business mindset. Flexibility is key! Students range from kindergarten to adults and working shifts range from day to evening shifts. In-depth teacher training and support is offered before and during your contract. Performance incentives make teaching exciting, motivating, and fun. If you are hardworking and wish to stay in Japan, there is plenty of room for growth. Private school jobs are great for teachers who are flexible and eager to explore Japan. Jobs are available throughout the year, but the application process can be lengthy, so plan in advance. Learn more about private school jobs in Japan.
| Basic Benefits | Public School ALT Jobs in Japan | Private School Jobs in Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Salary | ¥250,000 (approx. $3,000 USD) | ¥250,000 (approx. $3,000 USD) full-time ¥125,000 (approx. $1,500 USD) part-time |
| Working Hours | 08:00-17:00 Monday-Friday | 5 days/week Monday-Saturday Hours vary and are agreed upon by the teacher and the school. **Must be flexible |
| Teaching Hours | 29.5 hrs/week | 26.6 hrs/week full-time 13.3 hrs/week part-time |
| Vacation | 3-4 weeks in August (60% paid) 2 weeks in December/January (75% paid) All National Holidays and Bonus Personal Days |
All National Holidays 10 working days (full-time) Number of holidays varies for part-time contracts |
| Foreign Teachers | 1 (only 1 foreign teacher/school) | 2-15 teachers/school |
| Class Size | 25-30 students/class | 1-15 students/class |
| Accommodation Cost |
¥15,000 – ¥80,000/month Average: ¥50,000/month Teacher pays for key money |
¥40,000-90,000/month (approximately) School can act as guarantor Assistance in finding accommodations provided |
| Airfare | Teacher pays Teach Away can assist teachers with finding an affordable flight |
Teacher pays Teach Away can assist teachers with finding an affordable flight |
| Bonuses | Free Japanese online lessons Location preferences honoured whenever possible |
Health insurance provided Contract completion bonus |
| Locations | Towns & Rural Areas (Easier to get a job in rural areas) |
Tokyo (90%); Towns and Rural Areas (10%) |
| Start Dates | March/April August/September |
Monthly |
Additional Information
| Japan at a Glance | Quick Facts |
|---|---|
| Capital: Tokyo | More than 70% of Japan consists of mountains, including more than 200 volcanoes. |
| Population: 127,799,000 (10th) | Mt. Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan, is an active volcano. |
| Language: Japanese | A nice musk melon, similar to a cantaloupe, may sell for over $300US. |
| Currency: Yen (¥) / En (円 or 圓) (JPY) | There are four different writing systems in Japan, romaji, katakana, hiragana, and kanji |
| Climate: Temperate | Japan’s literacy rate is almost 100%. |
| Government: Unitary parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy | There are around 1,500 earthquakes every year in Japan. |
| Religion: Buddhism, Shinto | The first novel, The Tale of Genji, was written in 1007 by a Japanese noble woman, Murasaki Shikibu. |
