Japan vs Vietnam: Where to Teach English

If you’ve ever imagined yourself teaching English abroad, Japan and Vietnam probably sit high on your list—but for entirely different reasons. Japan lures with its orderly cities, efficient systems, and centuries-old culture woven into daily life. Think cherry blossoms, bullet trains, polite classrooms, and unmatched precision. It’s a place where structure and tradition create a reliable rhythm to life and work.

Vietnam, on the other hand, is all about movement—colorful, chaotic, and full of unexpected beauty. From the scooters buzzing through Hanoi’s alleys to the laid-back beach cafés of Da Nang, Vietnam thrives on energy and adaptability. It’s a place where you can earn well, live comfortably, and soak up a culture that’s both deeply rooted and constantly evolving.

Both countries offer strong teaching opportunities, but the vibe, pace, and day-to-day realities are worlds apart. Whether you’re drawn to Japan’s clean order or Vietnam’s dynamic charm, choosing the right fit is about more than just salary—it’s about how you want to live, grow, and connect.

Teaching Requirements and Eligibility

Landing a legal English teaching job abroad comes down to a mix of qualifications, paperwork, and local expectations—and here’s where Japan and Vietnam start to diverge.

In Japan, the rules are clear-cut. A bachelor’s degree in any field is non-negotiable to obtain a work visa. TEFL certification isn’t legally required, but most schools prefer it—especially eikaiwas and dispatch companies. Native English speakers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and South Africa are heavily favored, though well-qualified non-natives can sometimes break in. Most jobs also require a clean criminal background and a basic health check. You’ll need to be at least 21 years old, and while teaching experience helps, it’s not essential.

Vietnam, by contrast, is more flexible. A bachelor’s degree is officially required, but those with 5+ years of teaching experience can sometimes qualify without one. A TEFL or TESOL certificate of at least 120 hours is a must. Vietnam is also more open to non-native speakers, as long as you can prove proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and many schools will hire based on your communication skills and enthusiasm. A clean criminal record and health check are still required, but age and nationality restrictions are looser compared to Japan.

Both countries require effort and a bit of paperwork, but the path is more accessible in Vietnam—especially for new teachers, non-natives, or those without a traditional academic background.

In summary:

• Japan is best if you already hold a degree and want a structured path with clear legal frameworks.
• Vietnam is ideal if you're newer to teaching, want more flexibility, or don’t tick every box but are ready to hustle.

Job Market and Hiring Trends

Japan’s English teaching market is well-established and highly structured. Major opportunities exist in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, as well as in rural areas through government programs like JET or private dispatch companies. Public school roles are competitive and follow strict recruitment cycles, often requiring early applications and interviews in your home country. Private conversation schools (eikaiwas) operate more flexibly, but hiring still tends to follow seasonal demand—mainly before the academic year starts in April.

Vietnam’s job market is more fluid and fast-moving. Most opportunities are concentrated in urban hubs like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, but positions can also be found in smaller cities and growing rural areas. Private language centers dominate the market, with new openings year-round. Public school roles are increasingly common and often filled just weeks before the semester starts. Flexibility is key—teachers can often land jobs shortly after arriving in-country.

Compare:

• Japan’s hiring process is slower and more formal, often requiring advance planning and visa sponsorship before arrival
• Vietnam offers faster, more accessible hiring—especially for those already in the country or open to in-person interviews

Salaries and Benefits

In Japan, teaching salaries range widely depending on the type of school and your experience. Public school assistant roles typically start around ¥230,000–¥300,000 ($1,570–$2,050) per month. Eikaiwa jobs offer a bit more flexibility but similar pay. University and international school positions can push monthly salaries up to ¥600,000 ($4,100), though these roles are competitive and require advanced credentials. Benefits vary—housing is rarely included, and while health insurance is mandated, relocation bonuses or airfare reimbursement are not guaranteed.

Vietnam’s salary range may look lower on paper—typically 27–51 million VND ($1,100–$2,100) per month—but don’t let that fool you. With much lower living costs, teachers often find it easier to save money. Language centers and public schools pay reliably, and benefits often include housing allowances or help with accommodation. Health insurance is usually offered, and it’s common to supplement your income with private tutoring or weekend gigs.

Compare:

• Japan offers higher base salaries but requires more personal spending on housing and commuting
• Vietnam provides better value for money—lower pay, but lower expenses and greater saving potential, especially with side income

Cost of Living

Living in Japan means adapting to one of the world’s most efficient—but also more expensive—societies. Rent in cities like Tokyo and Osaka can take a big bite out of your paycheck, and even basic groceries or transport costs tend to be higher than in neighboring countries. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center often costs between ¥80,000 and ¥150,000 ($550–$1,000), and while convenience is high, so is the price tag. Smaller towns are more affordable, but job options may be limited. That said, Japan’s infrastructure, public safety, and healthcare are world-class, and many teachers find the higher costs are balanced out by quality of life.

Vietnam, on the other hand, offers an extremely affordable lifestyle. Rent, food, transportation—even leisure—cost a fraction of what they do in Japan. You can live comfortably on a teacher’s salary in cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi and still have money left to save or travel. A modern one-bedroom apartment in a central location might cost just $300–$600 a month, and delicious street food meals rarely cost more than $2. Even imported luxuries like craft coffee or gym memberships are accessible on a modest budget.

Compare:

• Japan is better suited to those with structured budgets and a taste for modern conveniences—just be ready for higher living costs
• Vietnam is a strong choice for budget-conscious teachers or digital nomads seeking value without sacrificing comfort

Classroom Environment and Teaching Style

In Japan, many teachers—especially those in public schools—serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs), working alongside Japanese instructors to deliver pre-set lessons. This co-teaching model provides structure and support but can limit autonomy. Class sizes can range from 30 to 40 students, and the classroom culture is generally formal, with students showing respect and discipline. Creative lesson planning is often welcomed, but there are clear expectations and a defined curriculum to follow.

Vietnam’s classrooms are more varied and hands-on. Teachers in language centers or public schools often lead classes solo, giving them more freedom to design engaging activities and adjust pacing. Class sizes can range from small group lessons to packed public school classes of 40+ students, and the energy is often higher and more spontaneous than in Japan. Students are enthusiastic and eager to learn, but behavior management can be a greater challenge, especially with younger learners.

Compare:

• Japan offers more structure and shared responsibility, ideal for newer teachers who prefer clear guidelines
• Vietnam rewards flexibility and initiative, making it better for teachers who enjoy leading their own classrooms and adapting on the fly

Work Culture and School Expectations

Japanese work culture is famously formal and hierarchical, and that extends to schools as well. Teachers are expected to dress professionally, arrive early, and adhere to strict codes of etiquette—even bowing and using formal language when speaking with senior staff. Meetings, ceremonies, and school events are often mandatory, and it’s not unusual to be asked to stay late or take part in after-hours activities. While the structure can feel rigid, it’s also incredibly organized, and expectations are usually made clear from the start.

In contrast, Vietnam’s work environment is much more relaxed. While professionalism is still important, schools tend to be more casual in both dress and communication. Teachers are given more freedom in how they approach lessons, and while punctuality and reliability matter, the atmosphere is generally more laid-back. You might plan your own lessons, negotiate your own hours, or casually chat with your manager over coffee—something almost unthinkable in a Japanese school setting.

Compare:

• Japan appeals to those who respect structure, consistency, and cultural formality
• Vietnam suits teachers who thrive in flexible, informal environments with room to negotiate and personalize their approach

Lifestyle and Day-to-Day Living

Living in Japan is a masterclass in order and cleanliness. From spotless streets and punctual trains to quiet neighborhoods and world-class convenience stores, the day-to-day experience can feel like stepping into the future. Nightlife exists—especially in places like Tokyo or Osaka—but it’s more reserved, and many social activities happen quietly over drinks, karaoke, or izakaya dinners. Dating can be more conservative, and while Japan is safe and easy to navigate, making close friendships may take time.

Vietnam offers a totally different vibe—energetic, chaotic, and full of life. Street food is everywhere, scooters zip by in every direction, and there’s always something happening. The café scene is booming, nightlife is vibrant, and the expat communities in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are large and welcoming. Dating is more open, and friendships often form quickly. You’ll hear English spoken in major hubs, but daily life still feels authentically local and grounded.

Compare:

• Japan is ideal for those who value peace, cleanliness, and urban efficiency
• Vietnam is perfect for extroverts, foodies, and anyone who enjoys fast-paced, community-driven living

Language and Cultural Immersion

Immersing yourself in Japanese culture means navigating a rich tapestry of tradition, etiquette, and linguistic complexity. Learning Japanese can be deeply rewarding—but also challenging. The language uses three scripts (hiragana, katakana, and kanji), and mastering even basic reading can take time. Formality plays a huge role in daily interactions, from how you address coworkers to how you behave in public. While many Japanese people are kind and helpful, it can take time to truly integrate and build local friendships, especially outside of major cities.

Vietnam offers a different kind of immersion. The Vietnamese language is tonal, which adds some complexity, but it uses the Latin alphabet, making it visually more accessible for English speakers. Locals are generally warm and curious about foreigners, and it’s common to be invited to meals, celebrations, or spontaneous street-side conversations. The cultural vibe is relaxed and lively, and you’ll quickly feel part of the community—especially if you make an effort to speak even basic Vietnamese.

Compare:

• Japan offers deep cultural richness but a steeper language and social integration curve
• Vietnam provides easier entry points into daily life and faster cultural connection through informal, open interactions

Long-Term Prospects and Residency

Japan is one of the most stable long-term destinations in Asia, but it comes with more bureaucracy. Work visas are typically valid for one to three years and can be renewed, and after five consecutive years you may become eligible to apply for permanent residency. However, the process is strict and requires a solid employment history, tax records, and sometimes Japanese language proficiency. Career growth is possible—especially if you move into international schools or university roles—but it often requires formal teaching credentials.

Vietnam is more flexible, especially for teachers who prefer variety or want to freelance long-term. Work permits and temporary residence cards are issued through schools, and while not permanent, they are renewable and relatively easy to manage. Teachers often change employers or even transition to online teaching or entrepreneurship. While Vietnam doesn’t currently offer a widely accessible PR route for English teachers, many foreigners stay for years with no issue, living comfortably while working contract-to-contract.

Compare:

• Japan is great for those seeking long-term career stability and legal residency
• Vietnam is ideal for flexible expats who want mobility, freedom, and a lower barrier to staying long term

Which Country Is Right for You?

You might thrive in Japan if:

• You value routine, reliability, and urban efficiency
• You enjoy Japanese culture, food, and formality
• You’re seeking higher-paying roles or long-term teaching advancement

You might thrive in Vietnam if:

• You want an affordable lifestyle and more financial freedom
• You’re open to fast-paced, lively work and daily life
• You’re building experience or want flexible job options year-round

Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re after sushi trains and Shinkansen or street noodles and scooter rides, both Japan and Vietnam deliver exciting, life-changing experiences for English teachers. It’s less about which country is better—and more about which one fits your lifestyle, mindset, and goals. One offers polished order, the other vibrant freedom. The choice is yours.

👉 Explore more in our full country guides:

• Teach English in Japan
• Teach English in Vietnam