
Shannon Davi
JET Program Office, Embassy of Japan
AlumniActually, I initially applied for the CIR (Coordinator for International Relations) position; but was given the teaching position instead. When I firs...
Read Full Interview

with International TEFL Academy


International TEFL Academy
28
Do you want to get paid to teach English in Japan? ITA offers top-level accredited TEFL courses in Japan, in addition to award-winning online TEF...
See All 2 Programs

Interac
20
Discover the spirit of Japan and make a world of difference with Interac, the #1 private provider of foreign teachers in the Japanese public scho...


Premier TEFL
0
Begin your international teaching journey with an accredited 120-hour TEFL course, designed for those ready to live and work in Japan. This inte...
TravelBud
6
Embark on the most comprehensive teach abroad adventure with TravelBud in Japan. With your job placement 100% guaranteed at one of our carefully-vetted schools, thorough pre-departure support, 24/7 in-country throughout your teaching placement, and the opportunity to complete your TESOL/TEFL certifi
RVF International
1
Experience life in Japan while making a meaningful impact as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in a Japanese public school. Through RVF International, you'll teach alongside local educators, help students build confidence in English, and immerse yourself in one of the world's most fascinating cult
OnTESOL
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There’s no better way to earn income, make an impact on others, and discover the world than by teaching English abroad! This is exactly what we offer at OnTESOL—the opportunity to take on a teaching job at your desired location in Asia, Europe, Central and South America, and the Middle East. Travel
Ark Foreign Language Academy
4
Are you passionate about teaching English and experiencing new cultures? We have a great opportunity for you! Our schools in Onomichi, Hiroshima, are looking for native English speakers to join our team as conversation instructors. This is an amazing chance to live and work in a beautiful location,
TravelGrad
1
Take control of your teaching adventure in Japan! Turn your dreams of experiencing the Land of the Rising Sun into a well-paid reality on this 12-month immersive teaching adventure. With its quirky culture, orderly cities, age-old tradition, and stunning scenery, Japan is the kind of place that
Teacher's Friend
5
Embrace your dream of living abroad! Unsure about which TEFL course is perfect for you? Let me be your friend, helping your choose based on your unique circumstances. Worried about course content? My pre-course modules are here to help. I'll help you build a strong foundation in basic grammar and T
TEFL Heaven
3
Set off on a complete teaching journey in Japan with TEFL Heaven. We provide a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging between $1,400 - $2,000. We provide extensive support before your departure, offer round-the-clock assistance in Japan during your tea
Team Teach English in Japan
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A unique, funded opportunity in Japan designed for U.S. college & university students to gain experience teaching non-native speakers of English. College students and recent graduates spend 6-8 weeks in summer, fall or spring in Japan. Participants earn a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEF
Kobe College Corporation
0
Kobe College Corporation–Japan Education Exchange (KCC-JEE) is now accepting applications from motivated English language teachers seeking to enrich their professional careers at a high-ranking academic institution in Japan. Application deadline: July 22, 2026 Position Details: • Full-time Teacher
Before you begin your teaching journey in Japan, it can be a great idea to set clear, achievable goals to make the most out of your time abroad. Consider what you want to gain from this experience and how it fits into your long-term plans.
Teaching in Japan offers many advantages and perks that can shape your future. Here are a few major ones:
For teachers considering teaching in Japan, there’s plenty to know and research before you go, but here are a few major basics that may be helpful.
Japan offers diverse settings for teaching, each with unique charm and opportunities. Here are a few popular options.
Experience the vibrant energy of Japan’s capital. Tokyo is a bustling metropolis offering a blend of tradition and modernity, with countless cultural sites, shopping districts, and entertainment options. The city offers some of the best international teaching and learning programs recognized globally.
Immerse yourself in Japan’s ancient capital, known for its beautiful temples, gardens, and traditional tea houses. Kyoto offers a serene environment ideal for cultural enthusiasts. You can find many expats and travelers here living life amongst the traditional and current-day cultural elements Kyoto preserves and highly respects.
Enjoy the lively and friendly atmosphere of Osaka, famous for its food culture and nightlife. It’s a great location for those who love urban living with a touch of history. It is Japan’s third-largest city and sits just off the center of the country making it a great location for travel.
Teaching jobs in Japan for English speakers are fairly accessible, so begin your process and preparation by following these steps one by one.
If you’re ready to start searching, check out our Online Advisor! It can help match you with options right now and send those recommendations to your inbox!
Log in to or sign up for a MyGoAbroad account to bookmark, save, or compare jobs side-by-side.
Your teaching stint in Japan can vary based on your personal and professional goals. Consider the following as you figure out your plan.
If you’re interested in Japan but need a little extra help financially, fill out our scholarship and deals application.
After that, it’s a great time to apply for some jobs that excite you! A program coordinator will be in touch soon after.
Finally, it’s time to apply for your passport and visa, book your flight, and buy travel insurance after you’ve been hired into a Japanese school.
Get answers to the questions travelers ask most
Yes! English teachers are in demand in Japan as the need for English skills grows. Japan is one of the best destinations for those who want to teach English abroad.
To teach English in Japan, you'll need a TEFL certificate, a bachelor's degree, and citizenship in an approved English-speaking country. Additionally, you'll need to pass a criminal background check.
If you meet the qualifications to teach English in Japan, then it's time to apply for jobs! You can do so through foreign program providers or through government programs in Japan like JET. After, you'll be interviewed and take next steps to travel.
You can teach abroad in Japan as long as you want! Teaching contracts are typically granted in increments of 1, 3, and 5 years. Your work visa will be valid for the length of your contract.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: Teach English in Japan – Live, Work & Explore Japan
I’ve had such a positive experience with RVF International! From the very beginning, the RVF team have been incredibly communicative, transparent, and supportive throughout the entire process. One of the biggest concerns when navigating an opportunity like teaching abroad is having the right information and guidance to feel confident and prepared. RVF truly does an amazing job in this area. Every step was clearly communicated, questions were answered thoroughly, and there was always a clear understanding of what to expect next. What stood out most to me was how genuinely supportive and responsive the team was. You can tell they care about making sure participants feel informed and set up for success. I would absolutely recommend RVF International to anyone considering teaching abroad in Japan or anywhere across the World.
I had a disappointing experience with the placement process. I completed significant preparation, maintained a strong academic record, and obtained medical clearance from my doctor regarding concerns in my medical history. Despite that, I ultimately felt that older documentation and medical-history concerns were weighed more heavily than my actual qualifications, communication skills, and ability to succeed abroad. Communication throughout the process was generally professional, but I left feeling discouraged after investing substantial time and effort into preparing for teaching abroad. From my perspective, the process felt more focused on avoiding potential complications than evaluating applicants holistically as individuals. I understand organizations have policies and screening standards, but I would encourage future applicants to also explore direct-hire opportunities with Japanese schools and companies rather than relying only on placement/recruitment programs.
I am coming up on 6 months into my placement as an English teacher in Japan and could not be happier that I chose to work with TravelBud! TravelBud makes it extremely easy to begin the process of moving your life abroad, from facilitating a TESOL certification course, setting up interviews with prospective schools, and even connecting you with incredible people making up an in-country support team. Every staff member I have spoken with from this company has been incredibly kind, patient, and more than willing to answer any and all questions I had about teaching, living abroad, and the entire process of doing so. If you are thinking about teaching abroad, I cannot recommend TravelBud enough - they are a perfect resource to make the process of moving your entire life to another country as seamless as possible, whether it's your first or tenth time doing so!
Hi Lilah, Thank you so much for your glowing review and kind recommendation. We're thrilled to hear that your time with our team has been so positive and that their expertise and support have made your teaching journey in Japan such a smooth and enjoyable experience over the past six months. Your encouraging words inspire us to keep delivering outstanding experiences for all our future teachers. We also love seeing your incredible posts on social media, showcasing all the amazing adventures you've had. Wishing you even more fantastic experiences ahead! Best regards, Ben & The TravelBud Team
Program: Paid Teaching in Japan & Lifetime Placement Guarantee
Sometimes you are faced with a once in a lifetime opportunity. The Paid Teaching in Japan and Lifetime Placement is one of those opportunities. At first, I was skeptical about the program. The website and overall atmosphere I got from the Job source seemed to me to resemble a scam. After the first interview, I realized I was completely wrong. The interviewer and all other employees were in fact very professional. And within 4 months of a relatively expensive and time-consuming effort, I made it to Japan. All the hard work immediately paid off. The course was fast and easy, although it was thorough. I felt well equipped to be a teacher in Japan after going through all of it. A special benefit to this course specifically was the exposure to real teaching opportunities where we were thrown into language schools or even International Schools and replaced teachers for a lesson. This led me to my placement. I had a couple options for my placement, but the one that sounded the best was a position near Osaka, Japan. The Job itself is fine, I have enjoyed it so far, but the location is amazing. Being on the outside of Osaka just fit me personally and I would have never chosen it before going through with this program. I haven't utilized the lifetime placement but maybe down the road I will and can review that another time. The pay for the jobs offered is very low, especially from a western background. but have no fear, as the cost of living is also significantly lower. I have been truly enjoying this experience and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to make a change in their life for the better.
Program: Teach abroad with personalised support at every stage!
I can not talk more highly of Georgie and recommend her enough. I had the pleasure of having Georgie as my trainer while doing the TEFL course. I can not thank Georgie enough for everything. She is more then just a trainer. She is a mentor a friend and someone who is always there to help. Georgie has an abundance of knowledge, teaching experience and travel experience so I can promise you, you are certainly in the best hands, for completing the TEFL course and having fun at the same time - her teaching technique is something special!! While finding your feet when completing the course, settling into a new country and dealing with different changes Georgie makes it a million times easier for you. As well as her training you to become the best teacher and guiding you along the way she will also encourage you and give you confidence and always there to help in any situation. Georgie will also go above and beyond which makes her stand out from any other trainer. She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself and I am now living my best life on the other side of the world thanks to Georgie.
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
TEFL Pros has given me the knowledge and the self esteem to believe in myself and that I can become a fantastic teacher. For context I am a 40 year British person seeking to up skill and change career. I chose to teach English as a foreign language and after thorough online research I discovered the TEFL Pros course. The introductory discussion I had with Whitney before I signed up to the course really helped me manage my own expectations about what I could do. The course itself involves being a student yourself whilst listening and watching online videos delivered by Whitney. There are worksheets to complete whilst learning from the videos. There are then videos of actual classes being taught which really helped me to see what I was learning being put into practice. The opportunity to share highlights of the study and see what others are achieving is brilliantly available by joining the Facebook group. Weekly video Q & A's also help with any questions or concerns that you may have. Throughout the course I felt fully supported. I had a couple of queries and my emails were promptly responded to with the answers I hoped to get. I will recommend this course to anyone I hear that is wanting to do a TEFL course.
Program: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
Since I have just started the course, I cannot really give a complete review yet. So far it's been quite challenging, but in a good way. Lessons are clear and have options for all types of learners. Instructions are thorough and easy to understand. During assessments there are question amplifiers which are a great help in answering the questions. It is easy to focus since you can do it at any time that is convenient for you. I just wish that there were more options for people living in different countries in terms of the time schedules of the Zoom meetings. I live in Asia, and the time schedule of the Zoom meeting are at around 2am in my time, so it will be impossible for me to attend since I also have a full time day job. Other than that, great course! I am excited to continue and get to my goal!
Program: Native English Conversation Instructors Needed in Japan
I was in this program for almost 2 months and my only regret is not being able to stay longer. The staff are all ridiculously kind and helpful, if I ever needed something I was comfortable asking as they created a friendly and caring environment. The location is beautiful and a great opportunity to explore the nearby islands. I arrived in the winter and witnessed the beautiful nature, I can't imagine how gorgeous it would look during Spring and Autumn! The accommodation provided is amazing and super generous. All amenities and household appliances etc are provided and the space is comfortable and large. The accommodation is also a minute away from the workplace, right next to bus stops and a short walk away from the ferry and 24 hour supermarket. You can absolutely tell that the staff treats their students like family and cares deeply about each one of them. The community between staff and students they build is heart-warming. The students are full of life and very kind. Full support and training is aided continuously. Overall, I feel incredibly sad to leave and furthermore, so lucky to have had this opportunity. I wonder how I was so fortunate to be surrounded by such hospitable and interesting people. I am so grateful for Ark and this experience. Ark and Innoshima will truly always have a special place in my heart!
Program: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
I did the 180 hour TEFL course and a few other little important courses with the TEFL Institute before going on my very interesting internship in Spain. The experience of these courses and the Volunteering contract in a Spanish school was an amazing opportunity and a great experience for me. Since doing these courses, I would like to thank the TEFL team for their serious attitude and professionalism during the course and program. I can only be positif and advise people to use this TEFL Institute to do their work placements or interships or even doing any type of course that they may need for their future. It was amazing, thank you again. I would recommend you anytime to anybody.
Program: Accredited Level 5 TEFL Course Online | Teach Worldwide
Taking the decision to enroll in the TEFL level 5 course with the TEFL Institute was one of the best decisions to take because it not only provided me with the knowledge that I needed but also enabled me to get that knowledge at my own pace while being supported and assisted by the team throughout the course and after it. What I appreciate the most about the TEFL Institute how responsive and supportive the team is; even though my course ended, I still have all my questions answered in no time. Thank you for existing!
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
The program was well laid out and it was nice to have videos attached to the work. I have a chance to try out the program for free. I learned a lot from the examples and from the reviews. Support was always there when I needed it.
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
When I decided to work on my TEFL Certification, I spent hours researching different programs and I even did some of the free classes which were offered by some companies. None compared to TEFL Pros. The way Whitney has designed the entire course is very user-friendly and thorough. The way each module is presented is precise and to the point. I enjoyed watching the teaching videos and seeing the creative lesson plans put into practice. I have 35 years of teaching experience, but was still able to learn from this program - organizationizational skills, classrom and time management, what to expect in a different country, and a many more things!!! I cannot say enough positive things about Whitney's attention to relevant details, the support given when I reached out to TEFL Pros, and how good it felt to be excited to see what each module was going to cover.
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
I had a great experience. Signing up was extremely easy. Support was always available. The website was easy to navigate. After finishing, I felt fully prepared and began a job abroad teaching English!
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
I learned a lot from this job and it secured me a Teaching Assistant job in a school in El Salvador. I used many of the skills I learned from the course and I've now been given a promotion to a role in the SEN department. I'm so glad I took the leap and signed up!
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
TEFL Pros, simply put, allowed me to pursue my dreams! Since completing the well-constructed and highly-preparatory 120 Hour Accredited TEFL Certification, I have travelled to and taught English in five countries over the past two years including Portugal, Estonia, and Martinique! I completed my online 120-Hour Accredited Certification from home during the 2020 pandemic and it catapulted me into international travel and English teaching. Whitney and her amazing team at TEFL Pros were even there to respond to a flurry of questions right before my travels began and well after the course was complete! Thank you, TEFL Pros!

Honestly, amidst the entire COVID craze and when the japan borders were closed, the on-the-ground team did great with being as supportive as possible with its limitations. And I mean many limitations such as most of the schools not interviewing until the end of the year, or when borders opened. The support team was especially great, as they check in with you very thoughtfully. The program does listen to your specific preferences (such as age group, location, etc) but as I said, it was limited due to borders closed. I think if it weren’t COVID, if I had applied in another time, my experience would’ve been even more great due to more school options and an in-person cultural immersion. People think it’s sketchy at first, which is fair paying so much money, but when you think about it’s worth it as they do the hard work for you with their connections to schools and prioritized getting into the country.
Denise, thank you so much for your informative, honest and lovely feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you're enjoying your time in Japan. I remember when we first spoke on the phone, I knew you would make an excellent addition to our team of teachers with your passion for Japan and your love of new cultures- and I was right! Taking the leap of faith to teach English abroad can be daunting at the best of times- let alone in a world pandemic. We are so impressed by your positive attitude, resilience and adaptability and we can't wait to follow the rest of your journey, as a TravelBud Alumni and beyond. We appreciate your trust in us and we're sending you all the positive vibes from across the globe all the way to Japan! Warmest Regards, Grace
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
TEFL Pros was a great choice for me. The written assignments are good for both reinforcing the material taught and being accumulated in a Portfolio suitable for presentation to potential employers. The grammar lessons were good in that they gave enough, but not too much, English "nitty gritty" that can be shared with future students. The many videos are good because they allow the TEFL Pros student to see veteran teachers actually employing the instructional techniques being taught. But for me two features really made me especially glad I chose TEFL Pros: 1) The scheduling flexibility built in to the program. I had to take two months off due to issues related to my small publishing company. When I returned to my studies, it was easy to get back in stride. And, 2) the personal support and "hand holding" that my advisor Abby provided. Thank you Joss, Whitney, and (of course!) Abby
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
I would 10/10 recommend TEFL Pros to anyone looking to teach English abroad. Their primary focus is teaching in-person, student-centered classes. I was able to connect with other TEFL teachers and other alumni to help me along my way as well as make connections for my future. Whitney is an incredibly kind and knowledgable teacher who has become a role model to me. I finished my course in less than a month and it was more than worth it. Thank you TEFL Pros and Whitney!!

Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
When I was searching the Tefl options, my criteria was the quality of the course. Not the cost, not the certificate. Those were also important for me but I didn’t want to regret my decision because of cost related concerns. When I had my first interview with Whitney, I immediately realized that she was a true professional. Because she didn’t try to sell me anything. Reading the reviews in the end I decided to go with Teflpros and I am glad I did. Not only the quality of the material but also the easy access to my instructor made the process very easy for me. Also I believe Tuesday coaching sessions are very beneficial if you can reserve an hour per week. It added great value to my overall experience. Lastly, I thank Teflpros, especially Whitney, for the professionalism and dedication. Cheers, Mert
Program: 120-Hour Accredited TEFL Certification with Live Support
This course made learning fun and easy. Both Whitney and Jos gave me personal stories and experiences that helped me learn what to do and what not to do. They also incorporated a variety of ways to learn the information such as visual and auditory learning. I would recommend this course to anyone interested in learning how to teach in an engaging and encouraging way!
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Shannon Davi
JET Program Office, Embassy of Japan
AlumniActually, I initially applied for the CIR (Coordinator for International Relations) position; but was given the teaching position instead. When I firs...
Read Full Interview
Daniel Ichiyama
JET Program Office, Embassy of Japan
AlumniI’d always wanted to join the JET Programme specifically, since I heard about it in the junior high. My mother is a teacher back at home and I guess t...
Read Full Interview
Chelsea Tobias
JET Program Office, Embassy of Japan
AlumniI wanted a chance to travel and explore a culture I had been studying before starting graduate school. I also really love working with kids and this s...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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