Teach English in Japan

Although Japan is stereotypically regarded as a country famous (or infamous) for its homogenous culture, striking contrasts are apparent throughout this island nation, if you know where to look. You can ski Sapporo and surf Okinawa. You can enjoy the non-stop action of Tokyo streets or the serenity of Kyoto temples. You can climb mountains or scuba dive, and enjoy the world's healthiest lifestyle (we assume, considering Japan has the longest average overall life expectancy worldwide at 82.6 years), or pig out on mochi and fast food. As a teacher, you may be teaching English students that range in age from 2 to 92 or older. If you choose to go to Japan, you won't get bored; in fact, if you are like many teachers, you may find yourself teaching in Japan year after year.

Minimum Educational Requirements: TESOL/TEFL Certificate, BA/BS
Typical Contract: 1 year
Peak Hiring Season: Year-round
Teaching Hours/week: 25 - 40
Monthly Salary: Approx. ¥250,000 – 280,000 ($2,160 - $2,419)
Income Tax: 10%
Cost of Living/Month: ¥150,000 – 220,000 (or more in Tokyo)
Accommodations: Sometimes provided, more often available through school at reduced rate
Airfare: Seldom provided
Health Care: National system, often paid by employer
Holidays: Approx. 21 days plus 2 weeks of vacation is typical
Visa: Work visa sponsored by employer