Teach English in Japan: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Japan

Teaching English in Japan opens a gateway to a unique cultural and professional experience. Known as "The Land of the Rising Sun," Japan is a nation where tradition meets modernity. The juxtaposition of ancient temples against the backdrop of neon-lit skyscrapers creates an engaging environment for any educator. This blend of old and new is evident not just in the architecture but in the lifestyle and innovations, making Japan a captivating place to live and work.

Japanese cities are the epitome of high-tech living, yet they respect and preserve their rich history and culture. As an English teacher in Japan, you'll find yourself navigating through bustling streets where cutting-edge technology and fashion thrive alongside preserved heritage sites. The country's four distinct seasons — from the cold winters to the humid summers — add a dynamic element to everyday life, with spring being particularly celebrated for the enchanting cherry blossoms.

Culinary experiences in Japan are unparalleled. The meticulous attention to detail in Japanese cuisine, from the selection of ingredients to their preparation, offers a daily adventure for your taste buds. Teaching English here also allows you to explore diverse teaching settings, from the ultra-modern classrooms of Tokyo and Osaka to more serene environments in rural areas like Kyoto.

Japan's natural landscape is as varied as its urban environments, offering activities from hiking in lush mountains to relaxing in tranquil hot springs. Whether you are a seasoned teacher or new to the profession, Japan offers abundant opportunities for teaching English, supported by numerous TEFL programs designed to prepare you for this rewarding career. With its high demand for English educators, Japan is an ideal place to start or continue your teaching journey, immersing yourself in a society that values both innovation and tradition.

Why Teach English in Japan?

Japan offers a unique and enriching environment for teaching English, combining deep cultural traditions with advanced technological innovations. Here’s why Japan could be the ideal place for your teaching adventure:

Japan’s rich culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements, providing a fascinating backdrop for daily life. As an English teacher in Japan, you'll witness the meticulous preservation of rituals and ceremonies, participate in vibrant festivals, and see firsthand how these traditions coexist with cutting-edge technology and modern lifestyles.

The landscape of Japan varies dramatically from the neon-lit skyscrapers of Tokyo to the serene Zen gardens of Kyoto, and the snowy mountains of Hokkaido. This diversity offers teachers a variety of settings in which to live and explore, each with its own unique character and beauty.

Living in Japan is known for its high quality of life, with a reputation for safety, cleanliness, and public transport efficiency. While the cost of living can be high in urban centers like Tokyo, teachers often find that their salary packages, which sometimes include housing allowances, make it manageable.

There is a consistent demand for English teachers in Japan, fueled by the country’s international business interests and the Japanese government’s focus on improving English proficiency among students. This demand creates numerous job opportunities and provides a stable environment for career development in education.

The Japanese are known for their hospitality and respectfulness, qualities that make integrating into local communities a smoother experience for foreigners. The polite and formal nature of Japanese society can also be seen in the professional environment, providing a unique cultural learning experience.

Japanese cuisine is a highlight for many who live there, known not only for its sushi and ramen but also for its regional specialties. Teachers can enjoy exploring a diverse culinary scene, where presentation and quality are highly valued.

Japan’s geographical location makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Asia. The country’s well-connected airports and high-speed rail systems make both domestic and international travel accessible and affordable.

Teaching English in Japan not only offers the chance to engage in a fulfilling professional role but also provides a gateway to immerse oneself in a society that values precision, harmony, and respect. This makes it a particularly rewarding destination for teachers looking to expand their horizons both personally and professionally.

Requirements to teach English in Japan

Now that you’ve decided you want to teach English in Japan, you’re probably not sure about what the requirements are. Here will go over some of the important things you need to know. Prospective teachers often don’t have a clear understanding on the difficulty of getting their teaching career started in Japan. The truth is that as long as you are willing to learn and are a team player, securing an English teaching job will be easy. Only a small percentage of English teachers come from an education background. They are a diverse bunch and come from many different industries. Coming from an English and education background will always help you stand out, but teachers have come from marketing, writing, acting, babysitting, IT, engineering, medicine, law and many more. If you have a solid understanding of the English language and want to have a rewarding job, this is for you. Here are a few of the general requirements needed to become an English teacher in Japan:

You will need to have a bachelor's degree in any subject
Schools prefer teachers who are native English speakers from one of these countries: The United Kingdom, The United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand or South Africa. Japanese schools also hire non native speakers if you have good qualifications and experience as it's not a formal requirement to be a native English speaker.
A TEFL certificate is not required, but it could help you stand out
Experience is always welcomed, but not required at all
You should be able to pass a basic health test
You need to have a clean criminal background
You should be above 21 years old
You should love Japan and Japanese culture

Salary and benefits for teaching English in Japan

Teaching English in Japan definitely is up there as one of the best places to earn a decent living while teaching. Japan might be an expensive place to live, but the salary you earn will be more than enough to cover your expenses and allow you to save a bit. As an English teacher in Japan you can expect to earn anything between 230,000 to 600,000 JPY per month. Schools here are also known to offer teachers benefits like accommodation and flight reimbursements. The salary you earn will depend on whether you teach English in a city like Tokyo or in the countryside. You will earn more teaching in the city, but the cost of living will also be higher. Your qualifications and experience as well as the type of school you teach at will also influence your salary. Here are some schools you might consider teaching at:

School	Salary
Public Schools (Assistant language teacher)	230,000 - 300,000 JPY per month
Private schools (Eikaiwas)	250,000 - 280,000 JPY per month
International Schools	250,000 to 600,000 JPY per month
Universities	300,000 - 600,000 JPY per month
Private Tutoring	3,000 JPY per hour

Public school teaching jobs and salaries

Some of the most common jobs around are public school jobs. At these jobs you will be hired as an assistant language teacher (ALT) and and you will work along with a Japanese teacher. Many of these schools will only hire 1 foreign English teacher. There are 3 main ways these schools recruit teachers:

Recruiting through the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET Programme).
Recruiting through organizations such as Interac or Gaba.
Some schools opt to recruit teachers independently

The JET programme requires you to go through a long hiring process, including an in person interview in your home country, but also offers higher salaries and benefits than other organisations do.

At public schools class sizes are relatively large with 35-40 students per class. At these jobs you will be given the curriculum and outlines and you will need too plan the activities for your lessons. These jobs usually have a 30-35 hour weekly workload working weekdays during daytime and teachers earn 230,000 to 300,000 JPY per month.

Private English school (Eikaiwas) teaching jobs and salaries

In Japan, private schools are called eikaiwas. When working at these schools your job will be focused on helping students pass Japans ESL (English as a Second Language) exams. The classes are smaller than public schools with 1 to 15 students per class. Teaching hours depend on your school and agreement but can be weekdays or weekend days and during the daytime or evening. Another difference from public schools is that instead of there being 1 foreign teacher per school, there are 2 to 20 foreign teachers at eikaiwas. These schools offer part-time and full-time positions. Teachers working full-time usually work around 30 hours a week and earn a salary of 250,000 to 280,000 JPY per month.

International school teaching jobs and salaries

International schools are some of the best paying jobs, but they are not easy to get. These jobs are for qualified and experienced teachers. They look for teachers who have degree in Education or a teaching licence. These jobs offer a great working environment along with good benefits and a salary between 250,000 to 600,000 JPY per month. These schools are pretty much the same as a school back in your home country, just that they are in Japan. They follow international curriculums such as American and British curriculums and hold a very high standard. Students here come from wealthy Japanese families or expats as fees are much higher than other schools.

University teaching jobs and salaries

One of the best things about teaching at a University, is that only 10 to 15 teaching hours are required per week (not including class preparation and grading). These jobs are for well qualified teachers who have a Master's or Doctoral degree along with some experience. Universities are very prestigious in Japan and teachers earn a salary of 300,000 to 600,000 JPY per month along with great benefits such as long paid vacations (up to 3 months). If you are someone who like to take some time to travel, this a great opportunity for you.

Private tutoring jobs and salaries

Private tutoring is a great way to earn some extra money while teaching English in Japan. Teachers can teach 1 hour or 30 minute classes, meeting with students at their homes or at cafes and other public meeting places. This is a popular option, especially in the bigger cities and teachers can charge around 300,000 JYP per hour.

Cost of living in Japan

Japan is constantly ranked as one of the most expensive places to live in the world. Their are 3 reasons for this. Firstly Japan is an island and many things need to imported from other Asian countries. Secondly Japanese culture emphasizes high quality products a services and with better products come higher prices. Thirdly Tokyo is just an expensive place to live and the costs in Tokyo will be much higher than any other Japanese city. The good thing is that as a foreign English teacher in Japan is that you will be well paid and will be able to live comfortably with your salary. You can expect a very high standard of living with great public facilities, and very low levels of air pollution. You might even be able to build up some savings, but Japan isn't the best place for that because of the higher cost of living. A single persons estimated monthly costs are 121,000 JPY per month without rent. The currency used in Vietnam is JPY or ¥ (Japanese Yen or Yen for short) and according to Numbeo here are some basic costs to consider in Japan:

Item	Cost
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre	86,454.19 JPY
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre	57,712.22 JPY
Monthly basic utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage)	21,993.43 JPY
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)	4,779.01 JPY
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	122.82 JPY
Chicken Fillets (1kg)	868.46 JPY
Potato (1kg)	403.08 JPY
Rice (white), (1kg)	19,812.12 JPY
Banana (1kg)	308.89 JPY
Local Transport (One-way Ticket)	230.00 JPY
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult	8,897.52 JPY

The Best Places to Teach English in Japan

Japan offers a myriad of opportunities for English teachers, fueled by a robust demand for language education amidst a backdrop of rich culture and history. Whether you're drawn to bustling urban centers or prefer the charm of more laid-back cities, Japan has something to offer every type of teacher. Here’s a closer look at some of the best places to teach English across the country:

Tokyo

As the capital and largest city of Japan, Tokyo is the epicenter of the nation's political, economic, and cultural activities. It's a vibrant metropolis packed with entertainment, dining, and shopping options, making it an exciting place to live and work. For English teachers, Tokyo offers numerous opportunities in language schools, international schools, and private tutoring. The city's large expat community provides a supportive network, making the transition easier for newcomers.

Osaka

Known for its friendly people and famous street food, Osaka is the heart of Japan’s Kansai region. It's Japan's second-largest city and offers a slightly more relaxed pace compared to Tokyo, yet is no less dynamic. English teaching jobs in Osaka are plentiful, with positions commonly available in private language institutes and public schools. The city’s vibrant expat community ensures that newcomers have plenty of chances to socialize and find support.

Kyoto

Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, renowned for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It is also a city that welcomes a large number of tourists, which increases the demand for English language education, particularly in conversational and hospitality English. Teaching in Kyoto allows educators to immerse themselves in a city that embodies the historical and cultural essence of Japan.

Yokohama

Just a short train ride south of Tokyo, Yokohama offers the allure of a major metropolitan area but with its own distinct charm and slightly less hustle and bustle than the capital. It has a thriving international community and a robust job market for English teachers in its numerous language schools and businesses looking for corporate training solutions.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka, on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island, is known for its ancient temples, beaches and modern shopping malls, including the Canal City Hakata complex. The city’s warm climate, friendly locals, and lower cost of living make it an attractive destination for teachers. English language education opportunities here are expanding, particularly as the city becomes more internationalized.

Exploring Other Cities

Beyond these major cities, Japan has numerous other locations that are excellent for teaching English:

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is famous for its annual snow festival and offers a markedly different climate with snowy winters and mild summers. The city's proximity to nature makes it ideal for those who love the outdoors, and its educational institutions often seek English teachers to meet the needs of its diverse student population.
Nagoya, located in the heart of Aichi Prefecture, is a significant automotive and technological hub. The city's industries frequently require English teaching professionals for corporate training programs, making it a great place for those looking to teach adult learners in a more corporate environment.
Hiroshima is not just a city of great historical importance but also a vibrant modern community with a strong demand for English education. Schools in Hiroshima and private tutoring opportunities are plentiful, driven by both the local population and the international attention the city attracts.
Kobe is another attractive location for teaching English. Situated between the sea and the mountains, Kobe is known for its scenic beauty and culinary scene. It has a cosmopolitan atmosphere enriched by a significant expatriate community, offering ample teaching jobs in international schools and language institutes.
Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, offers a blend of urban life and scenic beauty, known for its green spaces and the famous Tanabata Matsuri festival. The city's universities and private language schools provide numerous opportunities for English teachers.
Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and regional handicrafts, offers a more traditional Japanese experience. English teachers here can immerse themselves in a city that beautifully balances historical preservation with modern life.
Okinawa offers a unique cultural and linguistic experience, distinct from the mainland due to its Ryukyuan heritage. English teaching positions here often come with the added benefit of living in a subtropical paradise, making it ideal for those looking for a slower pace of life and a warm climate.

These cities not only offer numerous teaching jobs but also provide a chance to experience the full spectrum of Japanese culture and lifestyle. Each city has its own unique character and advantages, making Japan a diverse and rewarding country for teaching English.

Understanding Japan and Japanese Culture

Japan is often considered one of the most intriguing places in the world, largely due to its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. This distinctiveness is rooted in Japan’s long period of isolation from the rest of the world, which only ended about 150 years ago. For English teachers arriving in Japan for the first time, adapting to this fascinating culture can be a delightful challenge.

Greetings and Communication

Communication in Japan involves certain practices that might be unfamiliar to foreigners. While English is spoken among business and academic circles, many Japanese people may not be fluent or may feel shy speaking it. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in fostering good relationships and easing daily interactions. The common greeting "konnichiwa," which means "hello," is an essential start. Unlike many Western cultures, Japanese people do not typically shake hands; instead, they bow. This act of bowing is performed with a straight neck and a hinge from the hips. The depth of the bow can indicate the level of respect being shown. For foreigners, a slight nod or a light handshake is usually acceptable and understood.

Indoor Etiquette

Japan places a high importance on cleanliness and order, especially in homes. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and this practice is often extended to certain traditional restaurants and other public places. Look for cues such as mats or shoe racks at entrances, and if provided, switch to slippers for indoor use.

Public Behavior

Public spaces in Japan are zones of mutual respect. Eating or drinking while walking, speaking loudly, or using your phone in confined spaces like subways are considered rude. The concept extends to personal habits such as blowing your nose in public, which is frowned upon; it is preferable to excuse yourself and attend to such needs in private.

Tipping Practices

In Japan, tipping is not only unnecessary but can also be seen as offensive. Service staff might even chase after you to return your money if you attempt to tip. This is because good service is expected and already included in the pricing of services.

Punctuality

Timeliness is a critical aspect of Japanese culture. Being punctual reflects respect for others' time and is particularly important in professional settings such as teaching. Japanese trains and public services are renowned for their punctuality, and this expectation extends to all areas of life.

Personal Space and Eye Contact

In contrast to many Western cultures where direct eye contact and physical touch are norms, in Japan, these behaviors are minimized. Prolonged eye contact may make a Japanese person feel uncomfortable, and touching, especially in formal or professional settings, is rare. In classrooms, it is common for students to avoid looking directly at teachers as a sign of respect, and gestures like patting a student on the head are inappropriate.

Navigating these cultural nuances with sensitivity and awareness can greatly enhance your experience living and teaching in Japan. It shows respect for the local customs and will enrich your interaction with students, colleagues, and friends throughout your stay.

Do you need to speak Japanese to teach English in Japan?

You do not need to speak Japanese to teach English in Japan. While mastering the language can enhance your understanding of Japanese culture and daily life, it is not a prerequisite for securing a teaching position. Most language schools and educational institutions prefer that classes be conducted entirely in English to create a fully immersive environment for students. This means that even if you are proficient in Japanese, you are typically encouraged to speak only English in the classroom to ensure that students maximize their exposure to the language. This policy helps students strengthen their English skills by compelling them to communicate and think in English during lessons.

Do you need to be a native English speaker?

Being a native English speaker means being a national of a country where the first language is English. Countries that Japan consider native English speaking are the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. To teach English in Japan, it isn't a legal requirement to be from these countries, but schools do have a preference when hiring teachers. The reason is simply because they perceive English nationals as natural English speakers with clear accents. They also want the students to learn about cultural aspects from the teachers home countries. Let's be honest, if we wanted to learn about Japan and Japanese culture, we'd rather have someone from Japan teach us than someone from Australia.

But being from a native English speaking country, doesn't make you a good English teacher. There are many people who teach English professionally in other countries and they would definitely be good English teachers. A lot of employers also do know that and are very open to consider non-native speakers. If you studied in a native speaking country or also have a passport from a native speaking country, it will also help a lot. To improve your chances you should focus on your strengths, when applying to jobs highlight your experience and qualifications and try to show that you can teach English in way that is clear and easy to understand for the students.

Can you teach English in Japan without a degree?

Japan stands as a highly sought-after destination for teaching English abroad, attracting educators with its rich culture and high educational standards. While the demand for English teachers is strong, so too is the competition, often favoring candidates with academic degrees. In Japan, possessing a bachelor's degree is a fundamental requirement for obtaining a work visa, making the prospect of teaching legally without one quite challenging. The degree, importantly, need not be specialized in English or education but can span any discipline.

Despite these stringent requirements, alternative routes exist for those keen on teaching English in Japan without a conventional degree. For individuals with a Japanese passport or a spousal visa, the path is somewhat simpler. Students enrolled in university programs in Japan can also find opportunities to teach English part-time, leveraging their student visa status. Private tutoring and online teaching present flexible options, allowing for one-on-one instruction or virtual classrooms without the need for a work visa.

One of the most viable and legal avenues for teaching English without committing to a full-time role is through the Working Holiday Visa program. Tailored for young individuals seeking cultural exchange, this visa enables participants to work part-time to support their travels in Japan. This program offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Japanese society, gain teaching experience, and explore the country, all within a legal framework.

Exploring these alternatives requires careful consideration and planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding visa regulations and the legalities of employment in Japan. For those determined to embark on a teaching journey in Japan without a degree, navigating these options responsibly opens up a world of possibilities, blending travel, cultural exchange, and education.

Can you teach English in Japan without experience?

Teaching English in Japan without prior experience is certainly feasible, although having some teaching experience can enhance your prospects for securing more desirable positions. Japan has a structured English education system that offers various entry-level positions designed to accommodate new teachers. This provides an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to start their teaching careers in a culturally rich and professionally rewarding environment.

Many language schools, known as Eikaiwa, and the Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) programs in public schools are often open to hiring candidates who are new to teaching. These programs are specifically tailored to integrate new educators into the teaching field. For instance, the JET Program (Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) is highly popular among graduates looking to teach English in Japan. It doesn't require previous teaching experience; instead, it values enthusiasm and a willingness to engage with the community and learn about Japanese culture.

Training is typically provided by employers in these settings, which can include orientations and workshops on classroom management, lesson planning, and effective communication strategies. This support helps new teachers develop their skills and confidence in teaching English as a foreign language.

Moreover, being TEFL certified can significantly improve your chances of being hired, even if you lack formal teaching experience. A TEFL certification equips you with basic teaching skills and demonstrates your commitment to teaching English, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

Necessity and Benefits of a TEFL Certificate for Teaching in Japan

While a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate is not a mandatory government requirement for teaching English in Japan, possessing one can significantly enhance your job prospects and potential salary. Many language schools and educational institutions in Japan value the TEFL certification as it indicates a teacher's preparedness and commitment to the profession, particularly if you do not have a background in education, English, or linguistics.

Advantages of Having a TEFL Certificate

For non-native English speakers, a TEFL certificate can be particularly beneficial, leveling the playing field against native speakers in competitive hiring scenarios. It showcases your proficiency in teaching English and can make your application more attractive. For native speakers, holding a TEFL certificate can boost your CV, especially if your degree is not directly related to teaching or linguistics.

Some schools in Japan may also offer higher salaries to teachers who have a TEFL certificate due to the perceived added value they bring to the educational environment. Additionally, schools might specify the need for a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification in their job listings. While you can still apply without these certifications, having one might prevent the need for exceptions and make you a straightforward choice for hiring.

Choosing the Right TEFL Course

It's crucial to select a reputable TEFL course to ensure your certification is respected and valued by potential employers in Japan. The industry standard for these courses is at least 120 hours of training, including both theoretical and practical components. When choosing a course, verify that it has proper accreditation and offers practical teaching experience, which is highly regarded by schools.

Where to Take Your TEFL Course

In Japan: Taking your TEFL course in Japan offers immersive benefits, such as understanding the local education system and networking with fellow teachers and institutions. This can provide insights into the culture and teaching environment that will be invaluable once you start your teaching career.
Online: There are many reputable online TEFL courses that offer flexibility and convenience. Ensure the online course includes a practical component or at least is recognized by educational institutions in Japan. High-quality online courses can be just as effective, provided they come from well-respected providers.
In Your Home Country: Completing a TEFL course in your home country can also be beneficial, especially if the course offers specific training on teaching English as a second language and includes information on adapting to foreign classrooms, which can be quite insightful before moving abroad.

Ultimately, while not legally required, having a TEFL certificate can open up more opportunities and potentially higher salaries in Japan. It equips you with essential teaching skills and knowledge that can help you thrive in diverse classroom settings, making it a worthy investment for aspiring English teachers.

How to get a visa to teach English in Japan

Thanks to Japan being one of the most orderly countries in the world, the visa process is very straightforward and your schools will help with most of the application. There are slight variations depending on where you work, but the requirements and documents are mostly the same. The only requirement for the Japanese work visa is a Bachelor's degree in any subject. Here are the options for visa's to teach English in Japan:

Instructor Visa - Work as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) in public schools in Japan.
Specialist in Humanities Visa - Work for private schools or companies such as as eikaiwas (language school) or corporate teaching programs.
Working holiday visa - Work and travel in Japan (for certain nationalities only).

To get a work visa you can either apply in your home country or if you are in Japan you can convert your tourist visa into a work visa (it's quite common for teachers to travel to japan as tourists and then look for jobs while there). So once you have received a job offer and an employment contract your school will ask you to forward all the documents they need to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) on your behalf. Your school will let you know which documents they need, which are usually the following:

Copy of your passport
Passport photos
Copy of your resume
Original or Authorised copy of your degree and transcripts
Teaching licence or certificate (Only required for some jobs)

Once you receive this you can convert it to a work visa at your nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate. Once you arrive in Japan, you will then receive your Status of Residence and Residence Card.

When to apply for teaching jobs in Japan

In Japan the first semester of the school year starts in March or April and the second semester starts in August or September. The biggest hiring period is for the new school school year and will be from January until April. If you can apply during those times great, but if you can't the good news is that it's not an issue at all. Schools hire teachers throughout the year so you will see many multiple open jobs every month of the year so you can move over to Japan at a time that suits you.

How to Apply for Teaching Jobs in Japan

Japan is probably one of the most popular countries to teach English in at the moment because of the interesting culture, beautiful landscapes and great quality of life. Because of this there is a lot of competition for the best jobs because of the amount and quality of English teachers. Don't worry there are plenty of jobs but you'll be competing with many candidates so it's important to know how to stand out from the crowd and impress prospective employers. You can find jobs on our Japan teaching jobs page where the latest English teaching jobs in Japan are listed. Here are a few tips that will increase your chances:

Professional Appearance

In Japan, the image is critical, and teachers are regarded as professionals. It's vital to present yourself accordingly. For interviews or any submissions that require a photo, dress conservatively in business attire. Avoid casual clothing or anything overly revealing. Hair should be neatly styled, and men should keep facial hair well-trimmed. Tattoos and piercings should be covered as they may be viewed unfavorably in more conservative educational environments.

Tailor Your CV

Your CV should reflect your qualifications and suitability for teaching positions. Make sure it's updated with any recent teaching experience, certifications, and skills relevant to the job. Highlighting a TEFL certificate or your status as a native English speaker can be particularly advantageous. Tailor your resume to emphasize the strengths that align with the requirements of the jobs you are applying for.

Punctuality

Timeliness is a significant aspect of Japanese culture, and this extends to the job application process. Whether responding to emails, attending online interviews, or meeting in person, ensure you are punctual. This respect for time signals your professionalism and respect for the employer's time.

Clear Communication

As an English teacher, your ability to communicate clearly and effectively is paramount. During interviews or in demo lessons, speak clearly and at a volume that ensures you are easily understood. Projecting confidence and clarity in your speech can make a strong impression.

Personal Touch

Going beyond the standard CV submission can significantly boost your visibility among applicants. Include a brief personal introduction that conveys who you are, why you are interested in teaching in Japan, and why you feel you would be a good fit for the specific school or program. Personalizing your application shows initiative and enthusiasm.

Additionally, consider creating a short introductory video. This can be a simple recording using a selfie camera, where you introduce yourself and perhaps even include a demo lesson. Such a video can provide a vivid sense of your teaching style and personality, helping you stand out from other candidates. If you have previous teaching experience, including a clip of you teaching, or if not, a simulated lesson can demonstrate your approach to education.

By carefully preparing your application and infusing it with personal touches that reflect your professionalism and dedication, you can enhance your chances of securing a teaching position in Japan, a country known for its high standards in education and cultural richness.