Thinking about teaching English in Japan? It’s one of the most popular ways for foreigners to live and work in Japan—and a great way to experience the country while earning a steady income. But not all English teaching jobs are the same. Depending on where and what you teach, your work hours, salary, and lifestyle can vary significantly.
This guide breaks down the main types of English teaching jobs in Japan—eikaiwa schools, ALT positions, private tutoring, and international schools—and compares their pros, cons, and average salaries. Whether you’re a first-time teacher or looking to switch jobs, Jobs in Japan can help you find the right fit.
1. Types of English Teaching Jobs in Japan
English teaching in Japan falls into several categories, each with its own structure and requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:
Eikaiwa (English Conversation Schools)
Eikaiwa schools are private English conversation centers that cater to students of all ages—children, university students, business professionals, and retirees. Classes usually focus on conversational English rather than grammar-heavy instruction.
- Typical Schedule: Afternoons to evenings, sometimes weekends
- Average Salary: ¥250,000–¥300,000 per month
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (teaching experience preferred but not always required)
- Pros: Small class sizes, structured curriculum, visa sponsorship often available
- Cons: Late working hours, limited vacation, performance-based evaluations
Eikaiwa jobs are ideal for beginners looking to gain teaching experience and stable income. Many listings for eikaiwa positions are posted year-round on Jobs in Japan.
ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)
ALT positions place foreign teachers in public elementary, junior high, or high schools to assist Japanese teachers of English. These roles are often arranged through dispatch companies or local Boards of Education.
- Typical Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Average Salary: ¥230,000–¥280,000 per month
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and native-level English
- Pros: Predictable hours, weekends off, cultural immersion in Japanese schools
- Cons: Limited control over lessons, rural placements possible, school breaks may be unpaid
ALT jobs are great for those who enjoy working with children and want a stable weekday schedule. Many ALTs use this role as a stepping stone toward long-term life in Japan or other professional opportunities.
Private Tutoring
Some teachers in Japan earn income through private lessons, teaching one-on-one to students in cafes, online, or at their homes. While not a full-time job on its own, it can supplement income or serve as a flexible side gig.
- Typical Schedule: Flexible—set by you and your students
- Average Pay: ¥2,500–¥4,000 per hour
- Requirements: None formally, but strong communication and teaching skills will help
- Pros: Flexible schedule, higher hourly rate
- Cons: No visa sponsorship, inconsistent income, requires self-promotion
If you already have a valid work visa or residence status (such as a spouse or student visa), tutoring can be an excellent way to earn extra income in Japan. The main challenge here is finding your own students and marketing yourself.
International and Private Schools
International schools follow foreign curricula (such as U.S., British, or IB systems) and often require formal teaching qualifications, teaching licenses or education degrees. Private schools may follow the Japanese system but often seek bilingual teachers or subject specialists.
- Typical Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Average Salary: ¥300,000–¥600,000+ per month
- Requirements: Teaching license, degree in education, or experience in international curricula
- Pros: Higher pay, professional environment, career development
- Cons: Competitive hiring, demanding workload, higher expectations
International schools offer some of the most stable and well-paying teaching jobs in Japan, ideal for certified teachers seeking long-term careers abroad.
2. Salary Comparison at a Glance
| Job Type | Monthly Salary (Approx.) | Schedule | Visa Sponsorship |
| Eikaiwa | ¥250,000–¥300,000 | Afternoon–Evening | Yes |
| ALT | ¥230,000–¥280,000 | Weekdays, 8:00–16:00 | Yes |
| Private Tutoring | ¥2,500–¥4,000/hour | Flexible | No |
| International/Private School | ¥300,000–¥600,000+ | Weekdays, full-time | Yes (varies) |
3. Which English Teaching Job Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
- First-timers: Start with eikaiwa or ALT positions to gain experience and get a work visa.
- Licensed teachers: Aim for international schools for better salaries and long-term opportunities.
- Part-time residents or freelancers: Consider private tutoring for flexibility and supplemental income.
Each type of job offers unique experiences—whether it’s connecting with local students in public schools, teaching adults conversational English, or working in a structured international environment.
4. Finding Teaching Jobs in Japan
When you’re ready to apply, use a dedicated job board that caters to English teachers in Japan. On Jobs in Japan, you can:
- Search by school type (eikaiwa, ALT, international)
- Filter listings by “Visa Sponsorship Available” or “English OK”
- Set job alerts for new openings in your preferred area
- Apply directly to employers that regularly hire foreign teachers
Whether you’re just starting your Japan journey or ready to advance your teaching career, Jobs in Japan offers a wide range of positions updated daily from all over the country.
Final Thoughts
Teaching English in Japan is one of the best ways to build a life in Japan while developing valuable skills and cross-cultural experience. Each school type has its pros and cons, so think carefully about your goals—income, lifestyle, and growth—and choose a position that aligns with your needs.
Ready to start your search? Visit Jobs in Japan to find the latest English teaching jobs in Japan, from eikaiwa to international schools, all in one place.
