Teaching in Japan - All Info/Opinions Welcome?

Question

I'm a 23 yr. old who graduated from college about 12 hours ago. But I've been contemplating teaching English in Japan for a good deal longer than that.

I particularly want to know--is it possible to find a contract that only lasts for 6 to 9 months, rather than an entire year? Although I think I'm capable of teaching for a year, I'm reluctant because my mom is 57 and in currently stable (but unpredictable) health.

Of course, I'm eager to read any and all other bits of information and opinions you can give me on the subject of teaching English in Japan.

Thanks a bunch! ^_^

Answer 1

Teaching English in Japan, Korea, or most any Asian country has its pros and cons. I started out teaching in Korea with no contract length at all. As I progressed, they wanted to keep me, but there was no written contract that said either party had to stay any longer than needed, or desired. Having said that, likely that is an exception rather than the rule. You as the teacher are much more better off with a contract, but be careful thinking that the contract guarantees you work for the entire time, it does not. Just like any other contractual agreement, you can be fired, or even let go as economic reasons dictate. The only break in teaching that I have had was due to low attendance for a short span in 1997 during the Christmas holiday period. I was let go for about two months, then asked back once enrollment was up again.

I fully understand your concern over a Mother's failing health, been there, still going through it now for the last seven years. I went back to the US for a three year period, thinking the worst was going to happen any day, but we have no control over "destiny" or when life moves into that final stage. I am back in Asia teaching again and loving it. I still call my Mother every week.

My recommendation is to accept any contract length that you feel comfortable with, knowing that in a pinch, you can back out, especially for maternal health reasons. Just be careful you don't get mixed up with those shady institutes that want to "hold" your passport for you or guarantee your "free" flight home only if you complete the full contract. Best of luck to you. Teaching is wonderful. Getting to do it abroad is a blessing.

Answer 2

I think it would be hard to find a school that would hire you for less than a year. I would recommend that you sign on without telling them you intend to stay less than a year. You can always tell them later.

You can get a lot more advice and information about teaching English in Japan here: