Hong Kong vs Japan: Where to Teach English

If you're looking to teach English in Asia but want something beyond the usual options, Hong Kong and Japan both stand out—each for their own reasons. These are two of the most advanced, modern, and culturally rich societies in the region, and both offer high standards of living, strong demand for English teachers, and the chance to build a fulfilling life abroad. That said, the experience of teaching in Hong Kong versus Japan is quite different, from the job types and visa structures to everyday life and long-term potential.

Both places attract teachers from all walks of life—some come for the culture, others for career growth, and many for the lifestyle. Whether you're picturing yourself sipping milk tea on a tram through Central or cycling past rice fields between classes, the choice between Hong Kong and Japan will shape your day-to-day life in more ways than one. Each has its own unique challenges and rewards, and understanding those differences can help you choose a path that fits your goals and personality.

Entry Requirements and Eligibility

Before you book your flight or start sending out résumés, it’s important to know what you’ll need to legally teach in each location. While both Hong Kong and Japan require a bachelor’s degree and some form of TEFL certification, they differ in how strict they are—and how flexible they are depending on your background.

Hong Kong

Teaching in Hong Kong tends to favor professionals who already have some teaching experience or advanced qualifications. Most schools will require at least a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL or TESOL certificate of 120+ hours, though candidates with education degrees or state teaching licenses are especially attractive. While being a native English speaker is preferred, non-native speakers with strong credentials and fluent English can still find roles—especially in private language centers or tutoring.

Many of the more stable and high-paying teaching jobs fall under the NET Scheme, a government-sponsored program for native English teachers in public schools. To qualify, you’ll generally need a degree, TEFL certification, and at least one or two years of experience. Outside the NET program, private schools and centers tend to be more flexible, especially if you have a strong background in business, education, or communication.

You'll also need a clean criminal record, and while there’s no official age limit, schools tend to prefer teachers below 60 years old (the standard retirement age). In short: Hong Kong favors quality over quantity—but if you’re well-qualified, you’ll be rewarded accordingly.

Japan

Japan is one of the most beginner-friendly destinations for teaching English in Asia. A bachelor’s degree in any field is required to obtain a work visa, but beyond that, things are surprisingly accessible. Many schools don’t require teaching experience or even a TEFL certificate, though having one will definitely improve your chances—especially with competitive employers.

Japan’s public school system hires foreign teachers primarily through the JET Programme and private dispatch companies like Interac. These programs are open to native English speakers from a handful of countries and typically provide support with relocation, training, and classroom prep. If you're not a native speaker, it’s not impossible to get hired, but you’ll need a near-native command of English and stronger academic credentials.

Teachers must pass a criminal background check, and you must be at least 21 years old to qualify for most work visas. Health checks are standard, but there's no upper age limit—though older candidates may face more scrutiny during the hiring process.

Hong Kong: Prioritizes teaching credentials and experience; great for professionals or career educators
Japan: Open to new teachers and recent grads; strong visa pathways for first-timers

Teaching Job Types and Hiring Pathways

Both Hong Kong and Japan offer a range of teaching positions, but the structure of the job market—and the most common entry points—look quite different. Whether you’re hoping to land a prestigious international school gig or simply get your foot in the door at a private language center, understanding how hiring works in each location can help you make a smoother transition.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s teaching scene revolves around a few key sectors: public schools (through the NET Scheme), private language centers, international schools, and private tutoring. The NET Scheme (Native-speaking English Teacher) is one of the best-known hiring pathways, run by the Education Bureau. NET teachers are placed in public primary or secondary schools on two-year contracts, with high salaries, housing allowances, flight reimbursements, and paid holidays. It’s competitive—but well worth it if you’re qualified.

Outside the NET program, many teachers find jobs in private language centers. These centers often cater to young learners and emphasize exam prep or communicative English. Hours can include evenings and weekends, but contracts tend to be stable. International schools are another option—offering excellent salaries and benefits—but they typically require licensed teachers with years of experience and a background in international curricula (e.g. British or IB).

Private tutoring is also a huge part of the landscape in Hong Kong. Teachers often supplement their income by offering one-on-one lessons at premium rates, either independently or through agencies. There's also growing demand for online tutoring, particularly for students preparing for international school entry or IELTS exams.

Japan

Japan’s job market is anchored by three pillars: public schools, private language schools (known as eikaiwas), and international schools. The most prominent public school hiring route is the JET Programme, which places Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) across the country. JET offers solid salaries, good support, and the prestige of a government-sponsored initiative. However, the application process is long and selective.

If you’re not applying through JET, dispatch companies like Interac or Borderlink offer similar ALT placements with quicker hiring, though pay and benefits are generally lower. These roles involve assisting Japanese teachers in public schools and focus heavily on communication and cultural exchange.

Eikaiwas are private English schools that operate year-round and cater to kids, teens, and adults. They often offer full-time contracts with 25–30 teaching hours per week, mostly in the afternoons and evenings. While they don’t always pay as well as public school positions, they’re widely available and great for teachers looking to start quickly.

Japan also has international schools, but competition is steep and requirements are high—most ask for licensed teachers with experience in Western curricula. For those looking to teach part-time, private tutoring is popular in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, with hourly rates that can be quite generous. Teachers also tap into online teaching to supplement their income, especially in more rural areas.

Hong Kong: NET Scheme dominates public school hiring; strong demand in private centers and tutoring
Japan: JET and eikaiwa schools provide easy entry; growing online and private tutoring opportunities

Salary and Benefits Comparison

When it comes to pay, both Hong Kong and Japan offer stable, full-time teaching jobs—but there’s a clear difference in overall earning potential. Hong Kong tends to lead with higher salaries and more robust benefits, while Japan offers consistency and solid support, especially through its public programs.

Hong Kong

Salaries in Hong Kong are among the highest in Asia for English teachers, particularly for those working through the NET Scheme or in international schools. NET teachers can earn HK$25,000 to HK$70,000 ($3,190 to $8,940 USD) per month, with generous housing allowances, end-of-contract bonuses, paid holidays, and flight reimbursements.

Teachers in private language centers usually earn less, around HK$18,000 to HK$25,000 ($2,300 to $3,190), but the cost of living can still be manageable if housing is shared or subsidized. International schools can pay upwards of HK$80,000 ($10,200) per month for licensed teachers, often with top-tier benefits.

Private tutoring is a lucrative side hustle, with hourly rates ranging from HK$300 to HK$800 ($38 to $102). Many teachers boost their income by teaching evenings or weekends, either in-person or online.

Japan

Japan’s salaries are generally more modest, but they cover living costs comfortably—especially if housing is subsidized. ALTs through the JET Programme earn around ¥280,000 ($1,900 USD) per month to start, with raises and bonuses in later years. JET also provides flights, paid holidays, and local support, which can be a huge help for newcomers.

Dispatch ALTs usually earn slightly less, around ¥230,000 to ¥250,000 ($1,570 to $1,710). Eikaiwa teachers tend to earn ¥250,000 to ¥280,000 ($1,710 to $1,920), depending on the company and location. Work hours can be less predictable, but bonuses and paid vacation are often included.

International schools and universities pay significantly more—up to ¥600,000 ($4,100) per month—but require stronger credentials. Private tutoring can pay around ¥3,000 ($20) per hour, and many teachers use this to supplement their income or fill gaps in their schedule.

Hong Kong: Higher average salaries, especially for experienced teachers; strong benefits across job types
Japan: Reliable pay and support, particularly for ALTs and eikaiwa teachers; higher pay possible in top-tier roles

Cost of Living Overview

Teaching salaries only tell part of the story. What really determines your quality of life is how far your money goes. While both Hong Kong and Japan are known for being on the pricier side compared to other Asian countries, the cost of living can be surprisingly manageable—if you know where to look and how to budget.

Hong Kong

The biggest expense by far in Hong Kong is housing. Rent prices in the city center are some of the highest in the world, with a one-bedroom apartment often costing HK$15,000 to HK$30,000 ($1,900 to $3,800 USD) per month. Living outside the city center can bring costs down to HK$9,000 to HK$20,000 ($1,150 to $2,500), especially if you’re open to a smaller space or shared accommodation.

On the upside, public transportation is efficient, clean, and affordable. A monthly pass for the MTR typically costs around HK$500 to HK$700 ($65 to $90), and you can get just about anywhere in the city without needing a car.

Groceries and dining can add up, especially if you prefer imported items or frequent restaurants. Eating local is key to saving money—a local noodle dish might cost HK$50 to HK$70 ($6 to $9), while a meal at a Western-style restaurant can run closer to HK$150 ($19+). Utilities average around HK$2,000 ($250), and fast internet is widely available for around HK$200 ($25) a month.

A realistic monthly budget for a single teacher in Hong Kong (not including rent) is around HK$9,000 to HK$12,000 ($1,150 to $1,530). For a family, monthly non-rent expenses could reach HK$30,000+ ($3,800+), especially if schooling and childcare are involved.

Japan

Japan offers a more balanced cost of living, with wide variation depending on your location. Rent in Tokyo or Osaka is comparable to major Western cities, but living outside the urban core or in smaller towns can cut costs significantly.

A one-bedroom apartment in central Tokyo might cost ¥80,000 to ¥150,000 ($550 to $1,030), while outside the city center or in rural placements, you could find housing for ¥40,000 to ¥70,000 ($270 to $480). Many ALT programs also offer subsidized housing, dramatically lowering rent costs.

Food is affordable and high-quality. You can eat well on a budget—bento lunches and noodle shops often charge around ¥500 to ¥800 ($3.50 to $5.50), and groceries are reasonably priced if you stick to local staples. Imported products and international restaurants can be pricey, but cooking at home is a good way to save.

Utilities and internet are typically around ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 ($140 to $210) per month combined. Public transportation is punctual, extensive, and well-priced, with a typical monthly commuting pass costing around ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 ($70 to $100).

For a single teacher, monthly non-rent costs usually land between ¥80,000 and ¥120,000 ($550 to $820). A family of four could expect to spend ¥300,000 to ¥450,000 ($2,050 to $3,100), depending on location and lifestyle.

Hong Kong: Rent is high, but public transit and healthcare are excellent; lifestyle is best managed with a housing allowance
Japan: More flexible cost of living depending on city vs countryside; affordable food and reliable infrastructure

Daily Life and Cultural Integration

Living abroad means more than just going to work—it’s about how you adapt, connect, and feel in your new environment. Hong Kong and Japan are both rich in culture and filled with opportunity, but your day-to-day life will feel quite different in each.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is fast-paced, international, and incredibly efficient. As a bilingual city, English is widely spoken—on public transport, in banks, and even in government offices. That makes it one of the easiest places in Asia for foreigners to settle into daily routines. You’ll still hear Cantonese everywhere, but you can get by with English, especially in urban areas.

The local culture is a blend of East and West. People work hard, and the rhythm of life is quick—but there’s also time for food, family, and socializing. Many locals are friendly and open to chatting, and the city’s large expat community means it’s easy to make friends and find support networks.

In the classroom, students are generally respectful but may be under a lot of pressure due to Hong Kong’s competitive academic system. As a teacher, you’ll be expected to be professional, reliable, and culturally sensitive, but there’s plenty of room to bring your personality into the lessons.

Japan

Japan offers a calm, clean, and deeply respectful environment that many teachers find both peaceful and rewarding. That said, it can take more time to settle in. Language is the main hurdle—outside of major tourist areas, English is less common, and daily tasks (like setting up a bank account or reading your utility bill) may require patience or assistance.

Culturally, Japan places a high value on social harmony, etiquette, and punctuality. Teachers are seen as authority figures and are generally held in high regard. Classrooms are quiet and orderly, and students tend to be shy but hardworking. You’ll likely work as part of a team, especially in public schools, where collaboration with Japanese teachers is key.

Making friends takes time, but it’s worth the effort. There are strong ALT and expat networks, and once you break through the initial formality, friendships are deep and genuine. Daily life is smooth and safe—groceries are fresh, streets are clean, and trains run like clockwork.

Hong Kong: English-friendly, cosmopolitan, and energetic; easier cultural transition
Japan: Quiet, respectful, and immersive; deeper cultural learning but slower integration

Travel, Free Time, and Lifestyle Perks

When you’re not in the classroom, both Hong Kong and Japan offer incredible ways to fill your free time—whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, or just a bit of downtime at a beach or café. Your weekends and holidays can be just as exciting as your workdays if you choose a destination that aligns with your lifestyle.

Hong Kong

Despite its small size, Hong Kong packs a serious punch when it comes to natural beauty and urban convenience. You’re never far from a mountain trail, a hidden beach, or a bustling night market. One of the best things about living in Hong Kong is how quickly you can switch from city to nature. You can hike Dragon’s Back in the morning and be at a rooftop bar by sunset.

Public holidays are generous, and long weekends offer perfect chances for short getaways. Thanks to its central location and world-class airport, travel around Asia is easy and fast—popular weekend escapes include Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Budget airlines and fast immigration queues make regional travel feel effortless.

In terms of lifestyle, Hong Kong is a mix of global and local. Wellness options abound—think hiking clubs, yoga studios, gyms, and beach workouts. Nightlife is vibrant, especially in neighborhoods like Central and Wan Chai. Whether you love art galleries, live music, or just grabbing dumplings at midnight, there’s always something happening.

Japan

Japan offers a different kind of richness: depth, variety, and tradition. This is a country where you can spend one weekend soaking in a mountaintop hot spring and the next exploring ancient shrines or vibrant city districts. Domestic travel is a huge perk here—Japan’s rail system is one of the best in the world, with efficient, scenic train routes connecting you to every corner of the country.

You’ll also enjoy a good number of national holidays, giving you time to explore places like Kyoto, Hokkaido, Okinawa, or even nearby destinations like South Korea and Taiwan. That said, international travel usually requires a bit more planning and budget than from Hong Kong.

The lifestyle in Japan is slower-paced and deeply rooted in routine. If you enjoy structure, calm, and a strong sense of community, you’ll thrive here. There’s a growing wellness culture (gyms, yoga, hiking), but traditional Japanese pursuits—tea ceremonies, martial arts, and seasonal festivals—are also a big part of local life. Nightlife exists, especially in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, but it tends to be more low-key and centered around izakayas (Japanese pubs), karaoke, and quiet bars.

Hong Kong: Perfect for quick travel around Asia, with easy access to mountains, beaches, and nightlife
Japan: Ideal for immersive, scenic domestic travel and a lifestyle built on routine, nature, and tradition

Long-Term Opportunities and Career Growth

If you’re looking beyond a one-year adventure and thinking about building a career or a future in Asia, both Hong Kong and Japan can offer that—but the road ahead looks different in each place.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the best places in Asia for career-minded teachers, especially if you have strong qualifications. Positions in international schools, the NET Scheme, and university programs can offer multi-year contracts, promotion pathways, and professional development. There’s room to grow—whether it’s becoming a senior teacher, academic coordinator, or even moving into curriculum planning or school leadership.

Visa renewals are relatively straightforward once you have sponsorship, and many teachers stay for 5 to 10 years or more. Some even transition into corporate training, publishing, or business English consulting. Permanent residency is possible after seven years of continuous stay, which is a major perk for those seeking long-term stability and rights within the city.

Japan

Japan offers a different kind of long-term path—more stable, less financially ambitious, but deeply rewarding if you want cultural immersion and structure. Many ALTs renew their contracts yearly and stay 2–5 years, while others transition into private schools, eikaiwas, or even university positions with experience and further study.

Career progression exists, but it’s not as clear-cut or lucrative as in Hong Kong. However, the JET Programme, for example, offers pay increases and advancement over time, and some ALTs move into head teacher or trainer roles.

Permanent residency is possible after 5–10 years, but you’ll need to show income stability, Japanese language ability, and consistent legal employment. While fewer teachers stay long-term compared to Hong Kong, those who do often find deep community ties and a fulfilling lifestyle built on trust, respect, and routine.

Hong Kong: Best for those seeking high-income, professional growth, and long-term career options
Japan: A slower but stable path for teachers who want cultural depth and steady, meaningful work

Which Destination Is Right for You?

Choosing between Hong Kong and Japan isn’t about which is “better”—it’s about which aligns with your goals, personality, and stage of life. Both destinations offer incredible teaching opportunities and rewarding cultural experiences, but they suit different types of people.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

You might thrive in Hong Kong if:

• You’re experienced and want to earn a top-tier teaching salary
• You’re comfortable in a fast-paced, global city
• You value convenience, modern infrastructure, and international exposure
• You enjoy having quick access to nature, nightlife, and nearby countries

You might thrive in Japan if:

• You’re starting your teaching career and want structure and support
• You’re fascinated by Japanese culture and traditions
• You enjoy order, quiet, and high-quality public services
• You want a slower, more immersive experience with strong local roots

Both paths offer a chance to grow as a teacher, explore a new culture, and experience life from a completely different perspective. Whether you’re drawn to the skyline of Hong Kong or the temples of Kyoto, the right choice is the one that speaks to your goals—and how you want to live.

Still deciding?
Explore our full guides:
👉 Teach English in Hong Kong
👉 Teach English in Japan