How to Start Teaching English in Tokyo: Your Complete 2026 Guide

Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities in the world for English teachers. The pay is good, the culture is fascinating, and the teaching infrastructure is well-established. Here's everything you need to know about starting your ESL career in Tokyo.

Why Tokyo?

• High demand: Japan consistently needs English teachers
• Incredible culture: Ancient temples meet cutting-edge technology
• Safe and organized: Clean streets, reliable transport, low crime
• Career growth: Opportunities to move into corporate training or curriculum development
• Travel hub: Easy access to explore all of Japan

Types of Teaching Jobs in Tokyo

ALT (Assistant Language Teacher)

Work in Japanese public schools alongside Japanese teachers. Usually placed through dispatch companies like Interac, Altia Central, or Borderlink. Pay: 250,000-280,000 yen/month.

Eikaiwa (Conversation Schools)

Private language schools like AEON, ECC, NOVA, Gaba, and Berlitz. Teach conversation classes to all ages. Pay: 250,000-300,000 yen/month.

JET Programme

Government-sponsored program placing native speakers in schools across Japan. Competitive but well-paid (3.36 million yen/year). Apply through your home country's embassy.

International Schools

Schools like ASIJ, Nishimachi, and BST. Requires teaching license and experience. Pay: 4-8 million yen/year.

Private Tutoring

Freelance teaching through platforms or word of mouth. Rates: 3,000-6,000 yen/hour.

Best Websites to Find Jobs

• GaijinPot: The most popular job site for foreigners in Japan
• O-Hayo Sensei: Dedicated to teaching jobs across Japan
• JobsInJapan: General job board with many teaching positions
• JALT: Professional association with job listings
• Teach Away: International teaching job platform

Online Teaching Platforms

If you want to teach Japanese students online:

• CafeTalk: Popular for one-on-one lessons via Skype
• Hello Sensei: Matches private tutors with Japanese students
• NativeCamp: One of Japan's largest online English schools
• Eigox: Video-based English lessons for Japanese learners

Visa Requirements

Instructor Visa

For working at schools and language centers. Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree (any field)
• Job offer from a Japanese employer (sponsor)
• Clean background

Working Holiday Visa

Available for citizens of certain countries (Australia, UK, Canada, etc.). Allows part-time teaching for up to one year.

Salary and Cost of Living

Typical Salaries

• ALT/Eikaiwa: 250,000-300,000 yen/month
• JET Programme: 280,000 yen/month
• International schools: 350,000-600,000 yen/month

Cost of Living

• Rent: 70,000-120,000 yen/month (small apartments in Tokyo)
• Food: 40,000-60,000 yen/month
• Transport: 10,000-15,000 yen/month

Saving money in Tokyo is harder than in China, but the lifestyle is unique.

Tips for Success

• Apply to the JET Programme early—deadlines are typically in November
• TEFL isn't always required but helps with eikaiwa jobs
• Learn basic Japanese—it's not required but makes life much easier
• Start job hunting 3-6 months before your target arrival date
• Network with other teachers for unadvertised opportunities