I'm thinking about teaching English over there for a year. (No, that doesn't make me special, since there aren't really any, you know, qualifications.) Anybody done this before? I've gathered that it could be either a fascinating adventure in a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, or a miserable year of living with ridiculous social and corporate norms, xenophobic halitosis-ridden natives, and oppressed women. Or, more likely, somewhere in between. I've done a little research and narrowed down some cities that I think are supposed to be more foreigner- and America-friendly than others, but I'm not gonna post it yet so as not to affect any responses. Thanks, fellas.
When riding the subway, always buy the cheapest ticket and just force your way through the little doors (no jumping required) when exiting the station. They'll either grab you and tell you how much more you owe or (more likely) just let you go. We call it the "Stupid American".
I have two friends that have taught english in S. Korea ~ they both enjoyed it, but wouldn't have wanted to do it for longer than a year. I guess this doesn't help with Japan though...
I have a good friend who lived in Osaka for over a year doing her doctoral dissertation. She didn't like it after a while due to various reasons (general coldness to gaijin though she spoke some japanese and was half korean so she could sometimes pass as japanese), but as a female it's different, I suppose. I think after a while the novelty might wear off, as with anything, but all that being said, I wouldn't hesitate to go. Unless cost is a big factor for you, I don't think it's going to be hard to have a good time regardless.
I had a friend do this and he liked it...It's cool at first, but again, its a job in a great country...Lots of touring to do...
I haven't met many girls that liked their japan experience, as they immediatly become the less attractive and desireable of the females (except to the weirdos). However, most single guys I know enjoyed themselves there and it really is an amazing country that is much more diverse in consumer goods and entertainment.
I taught English in Korea for two years. Went over to Japan a few times and have met a few people who were teaching there. I will post what I know when I get home from work.
Have you seen Lost in Translation? It really gives you a good idea about what urban Japan is like. At least it was that way when I was there, years ago. Nikko is beautiful. There is a volcanic lake in the area (name escapes me) that has an otherworldly air to it. Waterfalls wisping down the mountainsides. Trippy!
http://outpostnine.com/editorials/teacher.html Kind of a little blog about an American who teaches over in Japan and his funny experiences.
I've always been interested in these jobs teaching English in foreign countries. But, don't you have to know both languages in order to teach (i.e. Don't you have to know both English and Japanese?)
No, generally only English is allowed in the classes. If you speak the native language you get in trouble.
Little Japanese boys and girls trying to grope your penis and stick their finger in your ass, are you sure you are ready for this Zac?
Nah, man, they (all the companies that do this, and apparently there are several) are actually really emphatic about how you don't have to know Japanese. You should look into it, it seems interesting and from what I've found, some of these places will at least give an interview to anyone with a degree... intermill, looking forward to what you have to say, thanks.
The one major caveat I will tell you from spending time is Asia is that while farang/gaijin are generally treated with great respect (especially if it is presumed that you are a businessman or figure of some white-collarish import), English teachers don't get the same amount of props unfortunately.
Ok, I lived there for 4 years and my wife is Japanese, so I have a bit of a clue on this issue... This may sound racist, but the world is racist, so...are you white? You will be treated much better in most circles in Japan if you are. As a white male, I never experienced any of the coldness one of the previous posters mentioned. I taught English for a couple years and caddied at a golf course as well. Teaching is fun, as long as your students are motivated. In my opinion, the Osaka area is cooler than the Tokyo area - but that's more of a rivalry thing - Houston v. Dallas, etc. Anyway, my advice is to go and do it. Make sure you get your visa and everything settled first though. =) Btw, it's a better experience in the long run if you make local friends and hang out with Japanese people than going there and hanging out with foreigners. Have Fun!
