English Teaching Jobs in Japan
The best English teaching jobs in Japan are with the JET Programme or an Eikaiwa. Here is how to get started for employment in Japan.
English Teaching Jobs in Japan
Even though Japan is the most sought-after destination for English teachers, there is also a large supply of other types of English teaching jobs in Japan. For example, English language academies (Eikaiwa) are the leading source of English teaching jobs in Japan.
If you want to teach English in Japan, you need an undergraduate degree and a criminal record check. TEFL certification is recommended and you don’t need to be a native speaker of English. But there is a bit of an unspoken preference for native speakers.
English Schools in Japan
Eikaiwa – An Eikaiwa is a specialized English Language school for Japanese people who want to improve their English fluency. The job of a foreign language teacher in an Eikaiwa is to interact with students often through conversation and curriculum.
Typically, an Eikaiwa hires foreign teachers year-round and is not as rigorous as the JET Programme. Although it’s easier to get a job in an Eikaiwa, it takes time to get a work visa and start teaching. One of the best parts about working for an Eikaiwa is that you can work in larger cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka.
English Teaching Programs in Japan

JET Programme – The JET Programme has sent more than 70,000 participants from around the globe. JET hires foreign teachers to work in schools, boards of education, and government offices throughout Japan. The hiring process is rigorous to get accepted. But it’s worth the time and effort.
The JET Programme is not an easy program to get accepted in. It’s also known for placing foreign teachers in smaller cities and rural areas. First, you need the following requirements to be be considered:
- Have a Bachelor’s Degree
- Be a fluent speaker of English
- Be a citizen of the country you are applying from
Internships
If you’re a bit nervous about traveling abroad, we recommend starting with an internship program because it takes all the hassle and time of getting set up. They help you set up affordable accommodation, get your work visa/permit in order, and include pre-departure information. Most importantly, it helps you focus on getting started to teach English in France.
The TEFL Academy Internships
The TEFL Academy offers a variety of exciting internships for students who are interested in gaining experience in the field of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). These internships are available for students who have completed their TEFL certificate programs.
Premier TEFL Internships
Premier TEFL has an internship program that is available worldwide at different times throughout the year. They allow students to learn about the TEFL industry, network with other professionals, and gain skills that will help them succeed in a career as a teacher of English as a foreign language.
The TEFL Institute of Ireland Internships
The TEFL Institute of Ireland offers a variety of internships for students who are interested in gaining experience in the field of teaching. Interns will be fully immersed in the day-to-day operations of an ESL school, gaining valuable insight into the industry in various countries
READ MORE: TEFL Internships: Get Paid with Teaching Experience
Certification
If you’re looking to teach English abroad, the first step is to earn a TEFL certificate. A TEFL certificate is an English teaching qualification that focuses on teaching English as a foreign language. It’s designed to prepare you to become a more effective teacher while working abroad.