Teaching conditions in Japan become more difficult

Many people have heard of lucrative English teaching jobs in Japan. While there was once a time when these jobs were plentiful and well-paying, in recent years there has been a decline in wages and opportunities.

Japan’s teaching days were during Japan’s economic “bubble” in the late 1980s and early 1990s. During this time, Japan’s economy seemed unstoppable and English lessons were one of the things that students Japanese were launching their new wealth. Since there were not enough teachers to meet the demand, almost any native speaker (and some non-native Westerners) could easily find work in Japan, with many earning substantial sums for private lessons.

However, these glory days for teaching in Japan have passed. The economic bubble collapsed just as many native English speakers came to Japan to teach. With tighter money, fewer people were taking lessons, and jobs became harder to find.

However, even with reduced opportunities, there are still jobs available. The study of English remains popular as a necessity in an increasingly integrated world and as a hobby. However, wages are lower and job requirements are more stringent.

A college degree is a must now. While a teaching degree is ideal, any four-year degree will usually suffice. Schools want qualifications, and the Japanese government requires a degree before a school can sponsor a teacher for a work visa. For college jobs (generally considered the best), a six-year degree is usually the minimum requirement.

Obtaining a work visa is a major hurdle. In the past, many schools would hire on a tourist visa and then provide sponsorship. Since fewer schools are willing to do that now, it’s a good idea to have a work visa before coming to Japan.

For those from countries with a working holiday agreement with Japan (the US does not have one), a working holiday visa is a good way to obtain a working holiday visa before coming. The JET program (administered by the Japanese government) is another possibility for those who qualify. Finally, some of the larger schools will hire outside of Japan.

Teaching methods and working conditions vary greatly from school to school. Japanese language skill is usually not required, but it helps, especially when teaching children. Generally, schools have a text and a teaching method that they want their teachers to follow. A common complaint from teachers is that their work can be monotonous. Many are teaching multiple classes every day while following lesson plans that leave little room for creativity.

The typical teacher in Japan only stays a couple of years or less. This produces continuous openings for those willing to face tougher conditions than in the past. For those looking for easier jobs and money teaching in Asia, Korea, Taiwan and China now offer better opportunities.

While there are still jobs available, you shouldn’t expect easy money and teaching jobs in Japan these days.