A Life-Changing Experience - Teach English in Japan with Interac

## A Rewarding Career Change and Cultural Experience in Japan

Joining the Interac program has given me the opportunity to make a meaningful career change and discover a more fulfilling professional path. After working in digital media, content creation, and marketing, I wanted to pursue something that would allow me to make a positive impact while continuing to use the skills I had developed throughout my career.

Working as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan has allowed me to do exactly that. Teaching English to elementary school students has been a rewarding experience, and I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to their learning while developing my own communication and teaching skills. Living in Japan has also given me a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

One of the things I value most about this experience is that it has allowed me to combine my previous professional background with a completely new field. For anyone considering a career change, teaching abroad can be an opportunity to explore a different direction while discovering new strengths and interests.

I would encourage prospective applicants to approach the experience with an open mind, patience, and a willingness to adapt to a new culture and working environment. Like any international experience, it comes with a learning curve, but it can also open the door to opportunities you may not have considered before.

Overall, Interac has helped me take an exciting new step in my career, and I am grateful for the opportunity to live, work, and learn in Japan.

Moving to Japan to teach has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for a truly great experience, but the reality of living and working here has completely exceeded my expectations. It is a country where ancient traditions and modern conveniences coexist beautifully, making every single day a new opportunity for discovery.
One of the absolute highlights of my time here has been exploring the breathtaking landscapes of northern Japan. The natural beauty in this region is unmatched. In Miyagi, the coastal views and scenic seascapes are peaceful and captivating, offering a perfect escape into nature after a week of teaching. Meanwhile, the snow-covered mountains of Yamagata are absolutely majestic. Whether you enjoy winter sports or simply want to marvel at the pristine, white peaks that look like something straight out of a painting, the scenery here never ceases to amaze. Experiencing the distinct, dramatic shift in seasons has given me a deep appreciation for the Japanese countryside.
Beyond the views, Japan is an absolute paradise for anyone who loves food. If you are a foodie, this is truly the place to be. Every region has its own culinary identity and local specialties to discov

Moving from Nigeria to Japan in March 2026 to work as an assistant language teacher (ALT) with Interac has been an incredible, growth-filled experience. Teaching at an elementary school in Yokohama has allowed me to combine my passion for education with deep cultural immersion.
Interac provided clear onboarding, and the support from fellow ALTs, head teachers, and school staff made navigating the transition smooth. Living in Kanagawa has been wonderful, from mastering the local train commutes and daily routines to exploring neighborhood spots and crafting visual teaching aids for my classes. It’s a rewarding program for educators looking to experience everyday life in Japan authentically, though flexibility, patience, and a willingness to adapt to a new professional culture are key.

As an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) assigned in Hikone, Shiga, I find this place very interesting and exciting for many reasons. First, I enjoy experiencing the four dramatic seasons. Each season brings a different atmosphere, from beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and warm sunny days in summer to colorful autumn leaves and peaceful snowy winters. Second, Hikone has good food, including delicious Japanese dishes, local specialties, fresh ingredients, and many affordable restaurants. Third, I appreciate the good transportation system. Trains and buses make it convenient to travel around Hikone and to nearby cities such as Kyoto and Osaka. Fourth, I am impressed by the polite and respectful students. Their manners and willingness to participate make teaching English a rewarding experience. Fifth, I appreciate the cleanliness of the city. Streets, public areas, schools, and train stations are generally well maintained. Sixth, Hikone feels safe and peaceful, which allows me to enjoy my daily life with greater peace of mind. Finally, I love the great parks and green spaces where I can relax, walk, exercise, and appreciate nature. Overall, these seven qualities make my experience as an ALT in Hikone enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable.

I first would like to say that this has been the greatest and most memorable experience of my life! To start off with, the Interac problem has been nothing less than awesome in terms of how the program is structured from the time of the first and initial interview with Interac to prepations to moving to Japan, undergoing the most empowering Initial Training and Orientation to being fully fledged and continually being supported and provides with ongoing on-the-job training by Interac. Interac had been truly phenomenal in that aspect! When it comes to the students, being at school and in the classroom, it has been the most eye opening, rewarding and remarkable experience I have ever had! The day to day interaction with the students, seeing their consistent progress, confidence and breaking out of the shell of the dear of speaking English with eagerness and enthusiasm of wanting to speak in English is the most amazing thing to experience! Knowing that you are impacting the students to being confident future global players is the most fulfilling and awe-inspiring experience one would ever undergo! Socially, I have been very active by participating in my local communities through volunteering to the local community center, attending every festival (Summer and Autumn festivals) my community and city has to offer. This has led to my better understanding of the locals culture and thorough enjoyment of Japan. Japanese cuisine has been one of the highlights so far as well. I have had the opportunity to taste their delicious food including ramen, soba, udon, onigiri, gyutan (beef tongue), Sendai speciality delicacy, Zunda amongst others. I have also I experienced some delicious seasonal offerings like for example, the eel and kakigori in Summer and now in Autumn, figs and harako-meshi being among the many dishes and seasonal foods on offer to indulge in. I have had also the privilege of exploring my city of Sendai through a sightseeing bus around the city to experience the beauty and history of the city by visiting all the top tourists attractions sites! I have also explored the vegetation and plants if the city by visiting the local Wild Plants garden to view the different blooms both in Spring and now in Summer. The vegetation and flowers are stunning and beautiful in all seasons. I have also visited the local bay of Matsushima, which is the most amazing place to visit, boasting more than 200 islands! In overall, I have enjoyed Japan so much, both on and off the classroom! It has been the most rewarding and fulfilling experience that also builds one's strength and resilience as well as fuels one's drive in the most incredible way! I will advice you to come to Japan not only to empowering students and having to explore what the country has to offer, but to also experience tremendous personal growth!

It took two days of traveling for me to arrive in Osaka, Japan from Montego Bay, Jamaica. Once I got here, the culture shock was immediate. Interac was very helpful in making my transition into another country as painless as possible, especially as I am not yet well versed in speaking the language. I reside in Gobo, Wakayama, a beautiful place with a calm atmosphere. Many restaurants, festivals, parks, a mall, movie theaters, bowling alleys - the amenities are endless and always accommodating. As an Assistant Language Teacher here in Japan, the English teachers that I work with at my respective are so engaging, kind and helpful. The way they lead the class gives me confidence as a first time teacher and helps me in connecting with the students. The students are active participants in their English lessons and it’s so fun to come up with different activities and games to keep English as an interesting subject for them. Japan is also the home to many magnificent castles with storied history, multiple amusement parks such as Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed here in Japan, “USJ” and Ghibli Park in Aichi. The food in Japan is very delicious and may I got to try for the first time such as miso soup, onigiri and takoyaki. I would highly recommend visiting Japan to anyone so learn the language and book your trip now!

I have been working as an Assistant Language Teacher( ALT) with Interac in Japan for about 7 months and I have learnt working as an ALT is not just a job opportunity; it’s also a cultural and personal experience. You learn to be independent, communicate across language barriers and navigate situations that may initially feel unfamiliar.
I teach at both an Elementary School and a Junior High School which has given me the opportunity to experience different teaching environments and interact with students of different ages. It’s been interesting to get to know the students and seeing how differently they respond to English their personalities, enthusiasm and reactions during English activities can make even an ordinary school day memorable.

Being an ALT is more than just teaching from a textbook. It’s about getting involved in the lessons, encouraging students to participate in activities, engaging in English conversations and to help them become more comfortable using the language. This has been one of things that has made this experience worthwhile. The funniest part of being an ALT has been the unexpected moments in the classrooms. I’ve learnt that even with a language barrier laughter is something everyone can share. Whether it’s a student’s reaction during activities, an unexpected answer or students getting really competitive during classroom games, there’s always something that makes me smile or laugh.

Being an ALT in Japan has been a challenging, rewarding and joyful journey. The beginning was not easy due to the language barrier and being unfamiliar with a new country. I got lost several times on my way to and from work because I didn't understand the public transportation system at that time. However, with help from my company and locals I learned quickly.
I once bought salt instead of sugar because the packaging looked almost the same. I only realized when I took the first sip of my tea at home. It's important to get a Sim card with data plan before you arrive in a foreign country so that you'll be able to use translation apps to communicate with the local people and shop assistants.

I had some misunderstandings with my JTE about my role in class. But with patience and communication we learned to work well together. Those moments taught me a lot.

The social scene can be quiet at first compared to South Africa, but once you join local events and festivals you meet amazing people and get to learn about Japanese culture & traditions.

My JTEs and other teachers are very patient, friendly and kind. They're always ready to help. The students are the most rewarding part. Their energy and curiosity make every class joyful. Being able to hold simple English conversations with them outside of the classroom motivates me the most.

For future ALTs, I recommend learning basic Japanese before you come. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and ask for help. The Japanese people are very supportive as well as our company's senior staff.
The culture shock is real but the growth and the experience of living in a safe and beautiful country like Japan make it absolutely worth it.