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The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Japan
2 The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Japan Call us toll free at: 1-800-779-1779
Table of Contents
page
Teaching ESL in Japan 3
Peak ESL Hiring Season in Japan 4
Teaching Requirements for ESL Teachers in Japan 7
What You Need to Know About Living in Japan 15
Language in Japan 17
Transportation in Japan 18
Etiquette in Japan 20
Eating in Japan 21
Climate in Japan 23
Holidays in Japan 24
Resources for Living and Teaching English in Japan 25
Embassy and Consulate Information for Japan 26
Embassy and Consulate Information Outside Japan 29
Take Your First Step Toward Teaching English in Japan 30
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Teaching English abroad is a job filled with it has become one of the most popular
educational opportunities and cultural destinations for those who want to
experiences alike. As a native English speaker, teach abroad.
you will bring a valuable skill to students in
Part of the increase in demand in Japan is
Japan; as a visitor, you will learn how the
the result of its Education Ministry’s 2013
Japanese people live, eat, communicate, travel
recommendation to more than double the
and celebrate. This guide will acquaint you with
number of foreign English teachers in the
all of these areas, beginning with details about
country, from 4,360 to 10,000. It also revived
the school system, and the documentation
the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET)
you’ll need to teach in Japan.
program, with a goal of having native English
speakers in every elementary, middle and high
Teaching ESL
school by 2023.
The country’s business community continues
in Japan to prioritize English-speaking proficiency in
employees; its largest e-commerce company,
Rakuten, and a Yamaguchi-based international
With Japan’s welcoming people, rich history,
clothing company, Uniqlo, have even changed
cuisine, art, culture, anime and technology,
their official company languages from Japanese
to English.
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Peak ESL Hiring salary of approximately ¥252,000 per
month. Salaries may vary depending on
Season in Japan
the performance and bonus structure
established by ECC.
These language schools operate year-round;
To successfully apply for a position teaching ESL therefore, employment is based on supply
in Japan, you’ll want to start working on your and demand. During recent years, most of
application materials a year ahead of time. The the placements for private language schools
typical Japanese school year differs from the occurred between August and September or
typical U.S. school year, and the lead time for April and May. However, peak seasons during
hiring decisions is factored in months, not weeks. one year may differ from the next year.
Public and Private School System For exact details regarding the hiring process,
The public and private school year is divided into check out our Job Placement Service. It should
three semesters, with April to July being the first be noted that applicants are suggested to apply
semester, followed by September to December, for positions three to six months prior to their
then January to March. Hiring for the public and desired departure date.
private schools is typically done for positions
either starting in April or August. ESL teachers Universities and Colleges
looking to work for public and private schools Japanese universities have two semesters
should apply three to six months before the start with the first semester starting in April
of the semester. and the second starting in October. Some
universities offer new courses to parallel the
Private Language Schools Western academic school year, which start in
Private language schools such as AEON and ECC either September or October. ESL instructors
hire on a continual, as needed, basis. interested in teaching at a university or college
should have a minimum of a Master’s Degree
• AEON: The AEON Corporation has been and/or years of teaching experience. Some
providing English education since 1973. universities and colleges also require ESL
The company currently has over 300 teachers to have some basic fluency
branch schools and employs over 800 in Japanese.
teachers. AEON teachers can expect to earn
approximately ¥270,000 per month. Salaries The hiring season is similar to public and
may vary depending on the performance private schools with peak hiring occurring
and bonus structure established by AEON. four to six months before the beginning of
the semester. It’s common for university and
• ECC: The Education through Communication college teachers to have gained experience
for the Community (ECC) has been teaching in the Japanese public and private
specializing in English instruction since school systems before obtaining employment
1962. Throughout Japan, ECC has over at a university or college. Doing this helps build
150 schools and employs more than contacts and relationships for creating
650 teachers. ECC teachers earn a base job prospects.
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Private Tutoring How to Find Jobs Teaching
ESL teachers can provide private tutoring for English in Japan
Japanese nationals, but most contracts prohibit Graduates of Oxford Seminars receive our Job
teachers from doing so. The majority of job Placement Service with access to established
opportunities occur through word of mouth or schools and recruiters around the world. After
advertising in the local newspapers; however, completing your in-class component, you
ESL teachers should be very discreet when will have access to a team of Job Placement
obtaining tutoring jobs. ESL teachers should note Advisors who have firsthand experience
that tutoring their own students will result in working internationally and are ready to
being fired, so it’s highly recommended to tutor help you find your dream job in the Land of
Japanese nationals who have no affiliation the Rising Sun. Contact your Job Placement
with a school. Advisor for assistance and feedback to improve
Private English tutors can earn from 2,000 JPY/ your chances of securing a position in this
hour to 4,000 JPY/hour, depending on the competitive ESL teaching market.
student, the demand, and the location. Other useful places to find ESL teaching
jobs are:
The Japan Exchange and Teaching
• Oxford Seminars’ English Language
Program (JET) Schools Directory
English teaching exchange programs are also
a popular form of ESL employment. The Japan • Gaijin Pot
Exchange and Teaching Program, also referred to
• Jobs in Japan
as the JET Program, is the most common English
teaching exchange program for individuals • The Japan Times
wanting to live and work in Japan.
• Daily Yomiuri
Please note that the JET Program application
process typically takes 7-9 months, starting in late • Kansai Flea Market
September. Applicants cannot apply outside of • The JALT Job Information Centre
their native country, and the application process
includes in-person interviews and health checks. • The Japan Research Career Information
Network
Interviews are conducted between February
and March, with notice to successful applicants • Westgate University Program
occurring between April and May. Individuals • All About Teaching English in Japan
interested in the program should know a contract
with JET is a minimum of one year with a possible These resources are available in English and
extension for three years. Applicants accepted can be used to supplement your job search
into the JET Program depart in late July. beyond the Job Placement Service.
For further details and exact dates, please visit
www.jetprogramme.org/e/aspiring/howto.html.
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Another useful resource for ESL teachers
that is available online is Metropolis.
This news source contains a vast amount
of information about Japan including
job advertisements, apartment listings,
popular restaurants, upcoming concert
dates, and more. The editions are
published daily and are entirely
in English.
Jobs Teaching English in
the Summer in Japan
As mentioned in the Peak ESL Hiring
Season in Japan section, the school year
is split into three semesters with the first
semester occurring from April to July.
Therefore, the summer English positions
are short, not making it worthwhile
for ESL teachers to travel abroad. In
addition, the ESL summer positions
usually do not pay for accommodations
and often require the teacher to have
them arranged before the position
is awarded. Most teachers granted
summer teaching positions are already
living or traveling in Japan.
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Teaching spouse, employer, or academic institute must
submit the certificate before individuals can
Requirements
apply for a visa.
Resident Card
for ESL Teachers This card is issued to foreign nationals
looking to stay in Japan for 3 months or
in Japan
longer by immigration authorities at the main
international airports within Japan. This will
serve as an important piece of identification
Applying to work in another country can that will likely be needed when purchasing
seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. The a phone plan, opening a back account or
paperwork and documentation process follows renting an apartment. Please note that you are
a logical progression: check the requirements required by law to notify municipal offices of
for your country, gather the necessary personal any changes in address after receiving this card.
documents (birth certificates, marriage Foreigners should always carry their
certificates, passport, etc.), get background resident card.
or criminal checks where necessary, and then
apply for a certificate of eligibility, which is what American Citizens
you need in order to get a work visa. U.S. citizens wanting to teach English in Japan
can qualify for three types of visas.
The Certificate of Eligibility
A Certificate of Eligibility is issued before a visa Work Visa:
application by a regional immigration authority In order to obtain a work visa, a Certificate of
under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice Eligibility is required. There are two ways to
as evidence that the applicant fulfills various obtain the Certificate of Eligibility, which are:
conditions of the Immigration Control Act,
1. Apply as an ALT (Assistant Language
including those certifying that the activity in
Teacher) through a private company
which the foreigner wishes to engage in Japan
for the public system such as the JET
is valid and comes under a status of residence
Program
(excluding Temporary Visitor Status).
a. Applicants require a degree
The Certificate of Eligibility has the advantage
of reducing the time required to obtain a visa b. Applicants do not need to be U.S.
and complete immigration procedures, since born citizens as long as they have
a foreigner in possession of such a certificate at least 12 years of education in
can probably acquire a visa at an embassy or an English-speaking country
consulate without any inquiries being made to
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, by showing 2. Apply as an English instructor.
the certificate to the immigration officer, obtain a. Applicants must apply through a
landing permission more easily. This document private language school (juku and
is required of individuals wanting to work, eikaiwa) such as Berlitz
study, or live in Japan. A sponsor such as a
b. Applicants require a valid U.S.
passport
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c. Applicants need to have a criminal b. Documentation (e.g. marriage
record check certificate, statement of joint
bank accounts, birth certificate,
d. Applicants require a degree
etc.) proving the relationship
Spousal Visa: between the applicant and the
Spouses can apply for visas in one of two ways: permanent resident
1. Spouse of a Japanese national must c. A copy of the permanent
provide: resident’s passport
a. Documentation (original marriage d. Documentation certifying the
certificate) proving the applicant is applicant or his or her sponsor’s
married to a Japanese national financial stability (e.g. bank
statement, employment and tax
b. The resident card of a Japanese payment certificate, etc.)
national
e. The applicant can apply for the
c. A letter of guarantee by a person visa outside of Japan; however,
living in Japan the permanent resident should
d. Japanese spouse’s employment be in Japan. The visa is valid for a
certificate and certificate of tax maximum of three years.
payment Student Visa:
e. If the Japanese spouse is not Individuals wanting to study in Japan must
employed or is currently not apply for a student visa. In order for applicants
living in Japan, you’ll need a letter to qualify for a student visa they must:
of guarantee from a Japanese 1. Obtain sponsorship from an educational
guarantor residing in Japan. The institution
guarantor’s employment and tax
payment certificate will also be 2. Provide proof (e.g. bank statement) of
required money to pay for tuition, textbooks, and
accommodation expenses
f. The applicant can apply for the
visa outside of Japan; however, the Student visa holders are prohibited from
application process is usually done engaging in paid employment without obtaining
within Japan. The visa is valid for 90 permission from Japanese immigration and
days to three years and applicants the school. If the request to obtain paid
must extend the visa before expiry. employment is approved, students are limited
to a maximum number of working hours
2. Spouse of Permanent Resident must per week.
provide:
a. A permanent resident is someone
who has lived in Japan for at least
five consecutive years and who has
applied and been accepted as a
permanent resident
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Canadian Citizens 5. A return travel ticket
Canadian citizens wanting to teach English in
6. A valid Canadian passport
Japan can qualify for four types of visas.
Applicants applying for a working holiday visa
Work Visa:
in Japan can only acquire one during the course
A Certificate of Eligibility is required. There are
of their life. Once the initial working holiday
two ways to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility:
visa has been issued, applicants must enter
1. Apply as an ALT (Assistant Language Japan within three months. The initial stay is
Teacher) through a private company six months but applicants can apply for an
for the public system such as the JET extended stay of six months, which has to be
Program approved by Japanese immigration authorities.
Holiday visa holders who intend on leaving
a. Applicants require a degree Japan during their stay must present their
b. Applicants do not need to be resident card to immigration authorities upon
Canadian or U.S. citizens as long departing with the appropriate box ticked in
as they have at least 12 years of order to qualify for re-entry.
education in an English-speaking Spousal Visa:
country Spouse of a Japanese national must provide:
2. Apply as an English instructor 1. Documentation proving the applicant is
a. Applicants must apply through a married to a Japanese national
private language school (juku and 2. The resident card of a Japanese national
eikaiwa) such as Berlitz
3. Documentation certifying the profession
b. Applicants require a valid and income of the applicant or his or her
Canadian passport spouse
c. Applicants need to have a 4. A letter of guarantee by a person living
criminal record check in Japan
d. Applicants require a degree 5. A permanent resident is someone
Working Holiday Visa: who has lived in Japan for at least five
Applicants must be/have: consecutive years and who has applied
and been accepted as a permanent
1. A Canadian citizen resident.
2. Intending mainly to holiday in Japan for 6. Documentation (e.g. marriage certificate,
a specific period of time statement of joint bank accounts, etc.)
proving the relationship between the
3. Between 18 - 30 years of age at the time
applicant and the permanent resident
of application
7. A copy of the permanent resident’s
4. Proof (e.g. bank statement) of a specific
passport
amount of money for the holiday in
Japan - the minimum amount is $2,000 8. Documentation certifying the profession
CDN and income of the applicant or his or her
spouse
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9. A letter of guarantee by the permanent Working Holiday Visa:
resident Individuals applying for a working holiday visa
must:
The applicant can apply for the visa outside
of Japan; however, the application process is 1. Be an Australian citizen
usually done within Japan. The visa is valid for
2. Intending mainly to holiday in Japan for
one year or three years and applicants must
a specific period of time
extend the visa before expiry.
3. Be between 18-30 years of age at the
Student Visa:
time of application
Individuals wanting to study in Japan must
apply for a student visa. In order for applicants 4. Provide proof (e.g. bank statement) of a
to qualify for a student visa, they must: specific amount of money for the holiday
in Japan - the minimum amount is 2,500
1. Obtain sponsorship from an educational
AUD
institution
5. Have a return travel ticket
2. Provide proof (e.g. bank statement) of
a specific amount of money to pay for 6. Have a valid Australian passport
tuition, textbooks, and accommodation
expenses. Applicants applying for a working holiday visa
in Japan can only acquire one during the course
Student visa holders are prohibited from of their life. Once the initial working holiday
engaging in paid employment without obtaining visa has been issued, applicants must enter
permission from Japanese immigration and Japan within three months. The initial stay is
the school. If the request to obtain paid six months but applicants can apply for an
employment is approved, students are limited extended stay of six months, which has to be
to a maximum number of working hours approved by Japanese immigration authorities.
per week. Holiday visa holders who intend on leaving
Japan during their stay must present their
Australian Citizens resident card to immigration authorities upon
Australian citizens wanting to teach English in departing with the appropriate box ticked in
Japan can qualify for four types of visas. order to qualify for re-entry.
Work Visa: Spousal Visa:
A Certificate of Eligibility is required. Australian Spouses can apply for a visa by obtaining a
citizens require sponsorship from an employer Certificate of Eligibility or by providing:
to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility. Other
prerequisites applicants require are: 1. Documentation proving the applicant is
married to a Japanese national
1. A college degree
2. The resident card of a Japanese national
2. Valid Australian passport
3. Documentation certifying the profession
3. Health and criminal record check and income of the applicant or his or her
Employment visas are valid for a period of spouse
three years. 4. A letter of guarantee by the Japanese
spouse
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The applicant can apply for the visa outside of Working Holiday Visa:
Japan; however, the application process is usually Applicants must be/have:
done within Japan. The visa is valid for one year,
1. A British citizen
three years, or six months and applicants must
extend the visa before expiry. 2. Intending mainly to holiday in Japan for
a year or less
Student Visa:
Individuals wanting to study in Japan must apply for 3. Between 18 - 25 years of age at the time
a student visa. In order for applicants to qualify for of application
a student visa they must: 4. Traveling without children
1. Obtain sponsorship from an educational 5. Traveling without spouses unless the
institution spouse has a valid visa
2. Provide proof (e.g. bank statement) of a 6. A minimum of 2,500 GPB in the
specific amount of money to pay for tuition, applicant’s bank account (bank
textbooks, and accommodation expenses statement of last 3-months must be
Student visa holders are prohibited from engaging shown)
in paid employment without obtaining permission 7. Receipt of return travel ticket
from Japanese immigration and the school. If the
request to obtain paid employment is approved, 8. A valid UK passport
students are limited to a maximum number of
Applicants applying for a working holiday visa
working hours per week. The visa is valid for six
in Japan can only acquire one during the course
months, one year, or three years and applicants
of their life. Once the initial working holiday
must extend the visa before expiry.
visa has been issued, applicants must enter
Japan within three months. The initial stay is
British Citizens six months but applicants can apply for an
British and Irish passport holders do not require extended stay of six months, which has to be
a visa if they intend on staying in Japan for six or approved by Japanese immigration authorities.
less months and are entering for the following Holiday visa holders who intend on leaving
purposes: holiday, visiting relatives, conferences, Japan during their stay must present their
study, and business. resident card to immigration authorities upon
Work Visa: departing with the appropriate box ticked in
A Certificate of Eligibility is required. UK citizens order to qualify for re-entry.
require sponsorship from an employer to apply Spousal Visa:
for the Certificate of Eligibility. Other prerequisites Spouses can apply for a visa by obtaining a
applicants require are: Certificate of Eligibility or by providing:
1. A university degree 1. Documentation proving the applicant
2. A valid UK passport is married to a Japanese national by
providing the Japanese spouse’s family
3. A health and a criminal record check register. The copy has to be issued
within three months of visa application
Employment visas are valid for one to three years.
and show the registered marriage
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2. The resident card of a Japanese national 1. A college degree
3. Proof (last three months of bank 2. Valid Irish passport
account) of sufficient funds to settle in
3. Health and criminal record check
Japan
Employment visas are valid for one or
The applicant can apply for the visa outside
three years.
of Japan; however, the application process is
usually done within Japan. The visa is valid for
Working Holiday Visa:
one year or three years and applicants must
The Republic of Ireland and Japan have
extend the visa before expiry.
established a working holiday program for
young Irish citizens. The program officially
Student Visa:
started in January 2007. Up to 400 Irish citizens
Individuals wanting to study in Japan must
will be granted holiday visas at which point the
apply for a student visa. In order for applicants
application period will be closed. The applicant
to qualify for a student visa they must obtain a
prerequisites for a working holiday visa are
Certificate of Eligibility by:
listed below.
1. Obtaining sponsorship from an
educational institution Applicants must be/have:
2. Proof (e.g. bank statement) of a specific 1. An Irish citizen
amount of money to pay for tuition,
2. Intending mainly to holiday in Japan for
textbooks, and accommodation
a specific period of time
expenses
3. Between 18 - 25 years of age at the time
Student visa holders are prohibited from
of application; the Japanese government
engaging in paid employment without obtaining
has agreed to extend the age limitation
permission from Japanese immigration and
to 30 years of age
the school. If the request to obtain paid
employment is approved, students are limited 4. Traveling without a dependent unless
to a maximum number of working hours the dependent has the proper visa to
per week. enter Japan
5. Proof of a return travel ticket and full
Irish Citizens
intention to leave Japan when the visa
Irish citizens wanting to teach English in Japan
expires
can qualify for four types of visas.
6. Proof (e.g. bank statement) of a specific
Work Visa:
amount of money for the holiday in
A Certificate of Eligibility is required. Irish
Japan - minimum 1,600 EUR including
citizens require sponsorship from an employer
return travel ticket or 3,200 EUR without
to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility and it
return travel ticket
expires three months after being issued. Once
the Certificate of Eligibility has been issued 7. Copy of overseas travel insurance
the visa application process can begin. Other
prerequisites applicants require are: 8. Criminal record and health check
9. Valid Irish passport
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Applicants applying for a working holiday visa in Student visa holders are prohibited from
Japan can only acquire one during the course of engaging in paid employment without obtaining
their life. Once the initial working holiday visa has permission from Japanese immigration and the
been issued, applicants must enter Japan within school. If the request to obtain paid employment
three months. Holiday visa holders who intend on is approved, students are limited to a maximum
leaving Japan during their stay must present their number of working hours per week.
resident card to immigration authorities upon
departing with the appropriate box ticked in order New Zealand Citizens
to qualify for re-entry New Zealand citizens interested in teaching ESL
Spousal Visa: in Japan can qualify for four types of visas.
Spouses can apply for a visa by obtaining a Work Visa:
Certificate of Eligibility or by providing: A Certificate of Eligibility is required. New
1. Documentation proving the applicant is Zealand citizens require sponsorship from an
married to a Japanese national by providing employer to apply for the Certificate of Eligibility
the Japanese spouse’s family register. The and it expires three months after being issued.
copy has to be issued within three months Once the Certificate of Eligibility has been issued
of visa application and show the registered the visa application process can begin. Other
marriage. prerequisites applicants require are:
2. The resident card of a Japanese national 1. A college degree
3. Proof (last three months of bank account) of 2. Valid New Zealand passport
sufficient funds to settle in Japan 3. Health and criminal record check
4. A letter of guarantee from the Japanese Employment visas are valid for one or three
spouse years.
The applicant can apply for the visa outside of Japan; Working Holiday Visa:
however, the application process is usually done Applicants must be/have:
within Japan. The visa is valid for one year or three
years and applicants must extend the visa 1. A New Zealand citizen
before expiry. 2. Intending mainly to holiday in Japan for a
specific period of time
Student Visa:
Individuals wanting to study in Japan must apply 3. Between 18 - 30 years of age at the time
for a student visa. In order for applicants to qualify of application
for a student visa they must obtain a Certificate of
4. No dependent children
Eligibility by:
5. Proof of a return travel ticket
1. Obtaining sponsorship from an educational
institution 6. Proof of a specific amount of money
for the holiday in Japan - a minimum of
2. Providing proof (e.g. bank statement) of a
$2,000 NZD, or $3,000 NZD for a married
specific amount of money to pay for tuition,
couple. Bank - statements, ATM printouts
textbooks, and accommodation expenses.
or cash will not be accepted as proof
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7. In Japan within six months of the date of The applicant can apply for the visa outside
issue of the visa of Japan; however, the application process is
Criminal record and health check usually done within Japan. The visa is valid for
Valid New Zealand passport one year or three years and applicants must
extend the visa before expiry.
Applicants applying for a working holiday visa
in Japan can only acquire one during the course Student Visa:
of their life. The initial stay is six months but Individuals wanting to study in Japan must
applicants can apply for an extended stay of six apply for a student visa. In order for applicants
months, which has to be approved by Japanese to qualify for a student visa they must obtain a
immigration authorities. Holiday visa holders Certificate of Eligibility by:
who intend on leaving Japan during their stay
1. Obtaining sponsorship from an
must present their resident card to immigration
educational institution
authorities upon departing with the appropriate
box ticked in order to qualify for re-entry. 2. Providing proof (e.g. bank statement) of
a specific amount of money to pay for
Spousal Visa: tuition, text books, and accommodation
Spouses can apply for a visa by obtaining a expenses
Certificate of Eligibility or by providing:
Student visa holders are prohibited from
1. Documentation proving the applicant engaging in paid employment without obtaining
is married to a Japanese national by permission from Japanese immigration and
providing the Japanese spouse’s family the school. If the request to obtain paid
register. The copy has to be issued employment is approved, students are limited
within three months of visa application to a maximum number of working hours
and show the registered marriage per week.
2. The resident card of a Japanese national Once you’ve finished gathering your materials
and putting your ESL teaching application
3. Proof (last three months of bank
together, it’s time to begin learning about life
account) of sufficient funds to settle in
in Japan. What will your living accommodations
Japan
be? Does your health insurance work there?
4. A letter of guarantee from the Japanese When should you take your shoes off? How
spouse should you use your chopsticks? And can you
communicate with basic phrases?
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What You Need In addition, bathtubs are not used for washing,
but for soaking and relaxing. They’re smaller
to Know About
in length but much deeper than U.S.-style tubs
and they can be compared to miniature
hot tubs.
Living in Japan Some employers provide dorm style
apartments with shared bathrooms and
The ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is a welcoming
kitchens and separate bedrooms. Typical one-
destination for many ESL teachers wanting to
room apartments (studio) often do not contain
find a job teaching English abroad. Teaching in
a separate bedroom.
Japan allows teachers to explore a nation known
for being the perfect blend of ancient customs A futon mat rolled out on the floor is still
and cutting-edge technology. commonly used for sleeping, which is then
folded up and stored in a closet during the
Housing day to save space, or hung outside using
Housing in Japan is generally smaller and very special clips to air. It is important to note that
different from homes in the United States. The apartments are not usually insulated, so space
terms used to describe housing also differ. Japan heaters, electric floor mats, and Kotatsu (small
has its own set of housing terms to distinguish tables with built in electric blankets) are used to
between the different styles of housing units keep apartments and houses warm.
available. The letters LDK are used to identify
whether the house has a living room (L), dining Technology and Advancement
area (D), and kitchen (K). For example, a 2DK On the whole, Japan is a technologically
apartment is an apartment with two bedrooms advanced country with talking escalators and
and a dining room with kitchen; whereas 1K is heated toilet seats. It’s the model of efficiency
an apartment with one bedroom and a small in many ways, and so accessing the Internet is
kitchen. Housing in Japan is typically measured fairly easy for ESL teachers. If teachers don’t
using tatami matting, a traditional style of have access at their accommodations, there are
flooring, which still covers the floors of some a few other options for accessing it, such as:
rooms in modern apartments. • Rent a mobile phone (Keitai) with
A typical bedroom is six tatami mats in area Internet connection
(~100 sq. ft.). While many modern apartments • Visit an Internet cafe. There are a few
have Western-style bathrooms, combining a common franchises including, Yahoo
small bathtub, shower, and sink, ESL teachers Japan Internet Cafe, Manga Land, and
should expect older apartments or buildings to Kinko’s
have “squatters” (toilets on the ground). Newer
apartments tend to have a bath unit, which • Use wireless Internet “hot-spots”
includes everything in one room. The bath ESL teachers shouldn’t have a problem
units are covered with tile or plastic inserts, so accessing the Internet or computers in Japan,
foreigners should not expect shower curtains as most work places will have Internet access;
or dividers. however, setting up the Internet on your home
computer can be a fairly drawn-out or
lengthy process.
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Airfare
Similar to accommodations, some contracts
may include paid airfare depending on the
employer and length of contract. It’s common
for employers to reimburse teachers for the
cost of their airfare after they’ve fulfilled the
contractual agreement, often in the form of a
contract completion bonus.
This encourages employees to stay the
full duration of their contract and protects
employers from losing their new staff members
prematurely. Therefore, ESL teachers should
plan to pay for airfare, at least initially.
Health Benefits
Since 2007, the majority of ESL teachers are
enrolled in the Japanese Employee Health
Insurance system, Shakai Hoken. Although this
usually provides subsidized health benefits,
it could still be worthwhile for an ESL teacher
to have additional coverage from their home
country. It’s essential to establish what
coverage a teacher has, before departing from
their home country.
For further information regarding Japan’s health
For further information regarding Japan’s health
benefit system, visit http://www.mhlw.go.jp/
benefit system, visit http://www.mhlw.go.jp/
english/ .
english/.
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Language in - My name is______.
______ to mooshimasu.
Japan - How are you?
Ogenki desu ka?
The Japanese language is one of the most
intriguing and difficult languages to learn - Thank you/You’re welcome.
because it is written with a combination of Arigatou/Dou itashimashite!
three different types of scripts:
- How much does this cost?
• Kanji (Chinese characters) Ikura desu ka?
• Hiragana (phonetic script used for
writing Japanese) - I can speak English.
Watashi wa Eigo ga hanasemasu.
• Katakana (phonetic script used for
writing foreign words in Japanese) - Can we go there by bus?
Basu de ikemasu ka?
Some may consider Romaji, the widely
used Roman script, to be a fourth script.
- How much is the ticket?
English teachers should attempt to learn
Kippu wa ikura desu ka?
Japanese to help make the transition into
daily life a lot easier and to help with the
- Good Morning!
initial culture shock.
Ohayo Gozaimasu
Before leaving for Japan, consider learning
the following Japanese phrases, which will - Excuse me.
help you during your stay in Japan. Sumimasen
These are just some of the basic phrases
English teachers may want to learn in Japanese
before arriving in Japan. Keep in mind that rural
areas tend to have less English traffic signs and
maps when compared to tourist locations such
as Tokyo, so a phrase book will be useful
to pack.
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Transportation types of trains vary from small local companies
to the bullet train (Shinkansen). The Japanese
in Japan
National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides
English timetable booklets, which include
general information regarding the train services
Japan is proud of its transportation network. in Japan and timetables for all major trains.
You probably won’t be driving (Japan residents HyperDia is a useful English website that
drive on the left side of the road, which is provides users with the schedule, traveling
counterintuitive for most visitors), but the options and cost to travel between the
network of subways, trains, taxis and buses can two stations.
get you anywhere you need to go.
Subways are very clean, efficient and
Taxi
affordable, but can be extremely crowded
Traveling by taxi is definitely the most
during rush hour. Major routes in major
expensive mode of transportation, as is the
cities have a frequency of one train every two
case with most developed countries. Fares are
minutes, making it one of the most efficient
similar in most parts of Japan, and the initial fee
transportation services in the world. The
is approximately 600 - 700 JPY for the first 2km.
subway is also reasonably priced and ESL
After the initial 2km, it is approximately 100 JPY
teachers can purchase monthly passes giving
for every 350 meters.
them unlimited access to stops within their
specified route.
Here are a few tips when traveling by taxi:
Bus
• Don’t whistle for a taxi. Waving or
The bus can be the most difficult mode of
holding your hand above your head is
transportation for foreigners. Unlike the
acceptable
train and subway system, timetables and
• Do not open or shut the door. Drivers destinations are usually written only in Chinese
will be able to control the doors with a characters (Kanji) making it a little harder for
remote teachers to reach their destination.
• ESL teachers should have someone City buses usually operate on one of two
write down their destination in Japanese. systems:
Don’t expect the driver to speak or read
1. Individuals pay a flat fee regardless of
English
distance
• Expect to wait in line for a taxi at most
2. Passengers take a ticket when boarding
train stations
the bus and pay the driver upon
Train and Subway departure based on distance.
The train is certainly the most popular mode
When travelling long distances, the bus can be
of transportation among teachers and
a very cost-effective option for teachers when
Japanese nationals alike. It’s fast, frequent, and
compared to the train.
comfortable, but can be expensive depending
on the type of train and distance traveled. The
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Other Modes of Transportation • Register the bicycle for theft
Other popular modes of transportation that prevention
are available for ESL teachers include:
• Write your name, phone number, and
Bicycle work address on the bicycle in English
The bicycle is a very common mode of
These are just some examples of the rules
transportation among Japanese nationals and
and regulations for bicycle safety. English
foreigners alike, due to convenience, speed
teachers wanting to travel by bike should
and cost. If foreigners choose to purchase
ensure that they’re familiar with all the
or rent a bicycle, it’s important to remember
regulations and traffic signs.
that it’s illegal and dangerous to perform the
following actions: Motor Vehicles
ESL teachers wanting to operate a motor
• Carry an open umbrella while riding a
vehicle must obtain an International Driving
bike, unless it is securely attached to an
Permit from their home country driving
umbrella holder
association. The International Driving Permit
• Ride at night without lights, although is valid for one year and those staying longer
most bikes come equipped with lights must obtain a Japanese driver’s license.
Documentation required for a Japanese
• Ride double or tandem driver’s license includes a resident card, a
• Ride a bicycle directly behind cars, passport, and a driver’s license from their
buses, or street cars home country. A fee and eye test will also
be required.
• Ride a bicycle after consuming alcohol
For a more comprehensive list of information
• Ride on the sidewalk on obtaining a Japanese driver’s license visit,
https://japan.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs-
• Ride while speaking on a mobile phone
drive.html.
• Ride while listening to music through
headphones
If a teacher is seen conducting any of these
actions, the police may stop them. Some other
tips for riding a bicycle are:
• Always lock the bicycle up; bicycle theft
is the most common crime in Japan
(most bikes have locks built in to them)
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Etiquette in Japan • It’s common for workers to apologize for
leaving work before their co-workers
Japan has many unique customs and etiquette; • When seated at a traditional Japanese
therefore, prior to departing for Japan, English restaurant, it is customary for men to sit
teachers should take note of the following cross-legged when eating, while women sit
cultural traditions. with their legs folded to the side
The bow is probably the most commonly known • The guest of honor always sits the farthest
Japanese greeting to those outside of the country. away from the door
Basic bow etiquette involves men bowing with their • There are separate slippers to be worn in
hands at their side and women with their hands the toilet
clasped on their laps. Mastering the bow takes years
of practice, but once it’s mastered, one may convey • Japanese nationals don’t blow their noses
a variety of different messages. For example: the in public
longer and deeper the bow, the more respect and These are some of the more prominent customs
dignity is expressed. and they may vary by region. While teachers
should respect their local hosts, foreigners aren’t
General Etiquette
expected to be familiar with all of the intricacies of
Some other examples of commonly practiced
the culture.
customs and etiquette are:
• Don’t wear shoes on tatami mats; it’s Bathing Etiquette
recommended to wear socks, although bare Bathtubs are solely used for soaking and relaxing,
feet may be acceptable not for washing. This is especially important to
remember when bathing at public baths and
• Always remove shoes when entering a home hot springs (Onsen). Common bathing practices
and place them with the toes facing the door include:
• When visiting someone else’s house, wear • The body must be washed and rinsed of all
shoes instead of sandals. Those who do soap before entering the bathtub
choose to wear sandals should bring a pair
of white socks so their bare feet do not touch • Bath water may be shared so washing and
the slippers the host offers rinsing after getting out is also appropriate
• The seat of a car directly behind the driver • Only use soap outside the bathtub
represents the place of honor • Tattoos should not be visible when bathing
• Don’t step on the thresholds of temples (unless at home) and will need to be
covered
• Don’t leave a social function before the guest
of honor • Always carry handkerchiefs and tissues
because public washrooms may not
• Most workers will arrive early and start provide toilet paper or paper towels
working immediately once working hours
begin These bathing practices are especially important
for ESL teachers in shared accommodations or
while living with Japanese families.
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Eating in Japan Keep in mind that if you try these types of foods
before going to Japan, it may vary in taste. Don’t
worry about trying to understand a Japanese
Japanese cuisine is one of the highlights for menu; often, there are plastic food displays to
any teacher living in Japan. There are a variety help with selecting and ordering food which can
of food choices from sushi and sashimi to be of great assistance when first arriving
okonomiyaki. Popular Japanese cuisine among in country.
foreigners includes:
Other popular concepts with foreigners living
• Izakaya: Japanese style pub grilled and in Japan that relate to food and drink are nomi
fried foods houdai and tabe houdai. These translate to “all
you can drink” and “all you can eat” and can be
• Okonomiyaki: Japanese pizza or
a very cost-effective way to fill up.
pancake
• Sukiyaki and Shabu-Shabu: Thin slices Typical Food Costs
of beef served with vegetables and tofu As a whole, it is cheaper to eat Japanese food
rather than to purchase American-style food
• Soba and Udon: Soba are thin, or to eat at American-style restaurants. Many
buckwheat noodles, while Udon are teachers find it more reasonable to eat in
thick white noodles Japanese restaurants, than to buy groceries and
eat at home.
• Ramen: Large bowl of noodles served in
a meat broth Average restaurant meal: (/person)
• Japanese sweets: Varies from Yokan Cheap: 800 JPY
(sweet red bean jelly) to Mochi (pounded
rice cakes) Medium: 1,000 - 4,000 JPY
• Takoyaki: Octopus in fried batter balls Expensive: 4,000+ JPY
• Onigiri: Triangular rice patties
containing a variety of fillings and Finding American Food
wrapped in seaweed ESL teachers may be surprised to hear that
most major cities have Costco and specialty
• Kaiten Sushi: Restaurants serving sushi food or import stores that supply American
on a conveyer belt foods. As most teachers will not own a vehicle,
• Fugu: Raw pufferfish carefully prepared it is beneficial that Costco will deliver right to
by master chefs one’s home and stores are often conveniently
located next to train lines.
• Katsudon: A bowl of rice topped with
deep-fried pork cutlet, egg and other If teachers are living in a smaller, more rural
accompaniments city, large supermarkets such as Costco may not
exist but it is likely that they will still be able to
• Curry Rice: Japanese-style curry served find typical American food. Another food source
on rice in Japan is Foreigners Buyer’s Club (FBC), which
will also deliver American groceries anywhere
in Japan.
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It should be noted, however, that buying Chopstick Etiquette
American food will likely cost considerably more Chopsticks hold a very special place in the
than buying Japanese food. These purchases minds of Japanese nationals, so observe the
should be considered by most teachers as following rules when using them:
luxury items.
• Do not stick chopsticks vertically in the
Eating Etiquette food; this is only done at funerals
Common eating etiquette varies tremendously
• Do not pass food between another set of
from the United States. Chopsticks are the
chopsticks
utensil of choice and learning to eat with them
will make your meals much easier while living • Do not lick or suck on chopsticks
in Japan. Cutlery, such as forks, knives, and
spoons are available in most restaurants, but • Chopsticks should not be used to skewer
ESL teachers may need to request to use them, foods
as they are typically not provided. English • It’s considered taboo to use mismatched
teachers visiting a Japanese home will rarely chopsticks
find cutlery to use during mealtime. Things
teachers should know about eating include: • Most Japanese nationals use their fingers
when items are too large for chopsticks;
• It’s proper to slurp noodles; it is a sign of cutlery may also be provided
enjoyment and satisfaction
• Do not use chopsticks to move dishes
• Japanese nationals do not pour soy sauce
on their rice • When taking food from a shared dish,
follow the lead of your hosts
• It’s unacceptable to eat while walking
Japanese foods do have seasonal elements.
• If someone offers to pay for a meal, it is While basic rice and vegetables are staples
polite to attempt to pay for your portion year-round, there is an annual calendar of fish
once or twice before allowing them to availability, and restaurants feature such items
pay as fresh bamboo shoots in spring, eggplant in
• It’s unacceptable to fill one’s own glass; the summer, mushrooms in the autumn and
it may indicate that you are an alcoholic; pickled turnip in the winter. It’s no wonder that
however, teachers should be sure to fill Japan’s weather is such an integral part of the
the glasses of others that are empty island’s character.
• If a teacher doesn’t want any more food
or drink, they should leave their glass or
bowl half full
Even though these are common practices in
Japan, locals expect foreigners to be unaware
of the proper etiquette. However, foreigners
should attempt to follow common eating
practices as this displays politeness
and courtesy.
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Climate in Japan Winter
The Japanese have yet to adopt centralized
indoor heating and with winter being the
Japan has a very complex climate. The type coldest season, ESL teachers might have trouble
of weather encountered will depend on the adjusting. In the north and on Japan’s seaside,
location. Similar to many regions in North high levels of precipitation and heavy snowfalls
America, Japan has four distinct seasons: occur through the months of December to
February. The Pacific side of Japan can be very
Spring cold but it experiences less heavy snowfalls.
Spring is the season of the famous cherry
blossoms and probably the most comfortable Natural Disasters
season for ESL teachers. Temperatures are The ‘Ring of Fire’ is a zone that surrounds
warm but not too hot, with little rain. Those the coastal lines of the Pacific Ocean, which
living along the coastline will experience causes earthquakes, volcanoes, typhoons,
more precipitation. and tsunamis. Both Japan and USA’s Pacific
and west coastline are considered part of this
Summer unstable environmental region; therefore,
During the summer the weather can be very
they experience similar plate tectonic activity
hot and humid throughout most of the country.
and a combination of earthquakes, volcanoes,
The rainy season starts in the southern part
typhoons, and tsunamis.
of Japan during the early part of summer (May
and June) and eventually moves northward. For further information regarding Japan’s
Typhoons also occur during the summer natural disasters and emergency tips, please
months, where torrential rains and high winds visit https://travel.state.gov/.
are formed. During typhoon season, coastal
provinces along the Pacific Ocean will endure
more intense rainfalls and wind.
Autumn
Autumn is similar to spring with relatively warm
temperatures and low rainfall. Second only to
cherry blossoms, Japan’s fall foliage is a sight
to see.
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Holidays in Japan May 5 - Children Day (kodomo no hi) Part of
Golden Week; on this holiday, and for some
time prior, families with boys will fly a windsock
One thing Japan does not lack is national in the shape of a koi.
holidays. English teachers traveling to Japan
should be enticed by the long list provided Third Monday of July - Ocean Day (umi no
below, although some private schools may not hi) This day represents the return of Emperor
provide them as days off. Meiji from a boat trip to Hokkaido in 1876.
Remember: Take money out before any Third Monday of September - Respect for
national holiday, as most banks and ATMs the Aged Day (keiro no hi) The elderly are
are closed (ATM machines are not accessible celebrated.
24-hours a day) Around September 23 - Autumn Equinox Day
January 1st - New Year (shogatsu) This is (shubun no hi) During the week of Equinox Day,
the most important Japanese holiday. Most graves are visited.
businesses are closed until after January 3rd. Second Monday of October - Health and
Second Monday of January - Coming of Age Sports Day (taiiku no hi in Japanese) This
(seijin no hi) This is a celebration of men and represents the 1964 Olympic games in Tokyo.
women who are 20 years of age. November 3 - Culture Day (bunka no hi) This
February 11th - National Foundation Day day celebrates peace, freedom and the
(kenkoku kinenbi) The day when the first promotion of culture.
Japanese emperor was crowned. November 23 - Labor Thanksgiving Day (kinro
Around March 21 - Spring Equinox Day kansha no hi)
(shunbun no hi) During the week of Equinox December 23 - Emperor’s Birthday (tenno
Day, graves are visited. no tanjobi) The current emperor’s birthday
April 29 - May 5 - Golden Week: The longest is always a national holiday. The holiday has
holiday in Japan and Japanese workers are always been celebrated on Emperor Akihito’s
given the time off with pay; be prepared for birthday since he assumed the throne in 1990.
most stores to be closed or to have smaller
staffs during this time.
April 29 - Showa Day (showa no hi) Showa Day
is part of the Golden Week; it is the birthday of
the former Emperor Showa.
May 3 - Constitution Day (kenpo kinenbi) A
national holiday remembering the new
constitution.
May 4 - Green Day (midori no hi) Part of the
Golden Week; a celebration of nature.
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Resources for Living Japan.
• Preparing to Go Checklist: A guide to
and Teaching preparing your documentation, including
international identification, airline tickets,
English in Japan •
medical needs and legal issues
Guide to Vaccinations: Common
There is an abundance of resources for future ESL vaccinations, current guidelines and links
teachers; however, finding resources that meet to the CDC and WHO
specific teaching needs can be difficult. Some • What to Pack: A comprehensive list, from
examples of the available teaching resources include: travel documents to general living items to
• Teaching English in Japan (TEIJ): Resources classroom needs
and support for those interested in teaching • Travel Safety: Emergency preparedness
ESL in Japan; everything from resume tips to lists, procedures and contacts
conversational textbooks and how to conduct
your first day of class. • Visa and Travel Information:
Understanding the kinds of visas and
• Transitions Abroad: A multi-faceted website application guidelines
for those who want to work, study or volunteer
abroad. This page has multiple articles and job • Lesson Activities: Lists are broken into
advertisements for teaching English in Japan. speaking, listening, writing, reading,
grammar, vocabulary and games and
• Songs For Teaching: Choose from a vast puzzles
selection of songs that help students learn
English and other subjects in fun and • Lesson Plans: Classroom plans for
collaborative ways. beginning, intermediate and advanced
students, as well as some for any level
• Genki English: The “Genki” English model
– which has been researched by Harvard • Classroom and Teacher Resources:
University and the University of Oxford – Alphabet, number and phonics flashcards,
includes songs, games and lessons aimed at worksheets and online resources
the ESL learner. • Theory and Research: Sophisticated
• Escape Artist: A trusted resource for expats articles about language acquisition and
interested in teaching English abroad, learning differences
EscapeArtist provides tips on finding work and • Additional Resources: A group of ESL
living in different countries, and a community teacher resources, including portal sites
of experienced fellow educators. and chatrooms
Oxford Seminars ESL Teaching These are just some examples of the resources
Resources available to ESL teachers. As mentioned above
Oxford Seminars has created its own extensive library there is a large number of teaching aids available,
of tips, links to useful websites, detailed checklists, but teachers will have to devote time to finding
articles, research and classroom ideas – most of them the resources that meet their individual
printable – for those interested in teaching ESL in teaching needs.
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