Due to the fact that English is now a compulsory subject from the beginning of primary school to the final year of high school, there is a large demand for teaching assistants within both state-run and private schools. A position as a teaching assistant can be an excellent way to put your ESL skills to good use, whilst at the same time acquainting yourself with the classroom environment. For first-time ESL teachers it is a great way to boost your confidence before moving on to EFL roles where you will need to act independently. As a teaching assistant within a state school you may be working up to 35 hours per week, earning a generous wage and benefiting from local holidays and the security of the work. That is not to say that the work will be overly easy. Students are generally respectful of English teachers, but the language differences may present some interesting challenges.

To work at a state-run school, you will need a degree, and a TEFL qualification is also a great asset. Experience, however, is not always essential, so this is a great opportunity for first-time ESL teachers. Having found a position, your school will assist in obtaining a visa by sponsoring you for the duration of your contract.

Private language academies also require a degree, and here a strong EFL qualification is a must. Jobs are available and advertised year-round. Some require you to work long hours, often during evenings and Saturdays. Facilities are comfortable, modern and often very well run, though they will expect prospective ESL teachers to be serious and formal in their teaching style. Salaries are high, but it should be remembered that so too are living costs. As one of the most expensive countries in the world, it may not be possible to save a great deal of money, but you can live well and enjoy all that the Japanese culture has to offer.

Teaching positions within companies are a possibility, though such teachers are normally hired face to face and are already based in Japan. Such work can offer valuable experience in this niche element of the EFL sector.

TEFL jobs in Japan are currently plentiful and offer an experience like no other, with the blend of modern and historic culture on hand presenting an amazing backdrop to a fantastic teaching environment.