Teaching English in Tokyo and Nagoya: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been dreaming of teaching English in Japan, two of the country’s most exciting cities—Tokyo and Nagoya—are currently looking for enthusiastic educators. Whether you’re drawn to the neon-lit energy of Tokyo or the more laid-back, industrious charm of Nagoya, this opportunity could be your next great adventure.

Salary and Benefits at a Glance

Let’s talk numbers first. For those teaching in Tokyo, the starting monthly salary ranges from ¥320,000 to ¥350,000 during your first year. In Nagoya, you can expect ¥280,000 to ¥320,000 per month. While these figures may vary based on your experience and skills, they offer a comfortable living in both cities.

The best part? As the school is a small, growing business, your salary has room to increase alongside the company’s expansion. That means your dedication and performance could lead to financial growth over time.

Who They Are Looking For

The ideal candidate has native-level English proficiency and conversational or fluent Japanese. Don’t worry if you don’t have a JLPT certification—it’s not required. What matters most is your ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.

You must also already reside in Japan and be ready to start around September for the Tokyo position.

A Typical Day in the Classroom

Your main responsibility is to plan and deliver engaging English lessons for beginner and intermediate students. Classes are intentionally kept small—up to five students per group—so you can give each learner the attention they deserve.

The teaching style blends sensory play with textbook-based learning, making lessons fun and effective. You’ll also help plan seasonal events like summer school, winter school, Halloween, and Christmas parties. These activities are a highlight for both students and teachers, creating memorable experiences beyond the classroom.

Work Schedule That Fits Your Lifestyle

You’ll work five days a week for a total of 40 hours. Lessons typically run from 14:30 to 19:30, giving you your mornings free to explore the city, study Japanese, or simply relax.

Before and after classes, you’ll handle simple office work, lesson preparation, and classroom cleaning. There are two schedule options:

• Option 1: 10:00–19:00 with a one-hour break
• Option 2: 11:00–19:00 with no formal break, but time for a quick lunch before classes begin

The Work Environment

With a current team of just two people, you’ll experience a friendly and flexible work atmosphere that larger schools often lack. Communication is direct, decisions are made quickly, and your ideas are valued.

You’ll also have regular interaction with parents, answering questions and providing short reports after each class. This builds strong community ties and helps you grow as an educator.

Is This the Right Path for You?

Teaching English in Japan is more than a job—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a rich culture while making a real difference in children’s lives. If you’re passionate, creative, and ready to join a supportive team, Tokyo or Nagoya could be your next home.

Start preparing your application and get ready for an unforgettable journey.