Location
  • Japan
    • Tokyo
    • Osaka
    • Fukuoka
    • Sapporo
    • Nagoya
Length
52+ weeks
Classroom Audience
Early Childhood Pre-School Middle School High School

Program Details

Classroom Audience
Early Childhood Pre-School Middle School High School
Housing
Apartment
Age Min.
20
Age Max
60

Pricing

Salary / Benefits
Your experience in Japan will set you apart from your peers. When you teach in Japan, you will find that there is much more to be gained than a regular paycheck. In fact, your experience will shape your future by providing you valuable career experience, experience living in a different culture, and the lifestyle of freedom and growth you have been waiting for. As an Interac ALT, you will most likely receive a gross annual salary of approximately ¥2.4 – ¥3.0 million Japanese Yen per year.
Price Details
There is no charge to apply to Interac.
What's Included
Activities Visa
What's Not Included
Accommodation Airfare Meals
Jan 28, 2025
Mar 02, 2025
188 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Interac teachers have the chance to make a big impact on students in Japan by teaching fun and engaging English lessons. Known as ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers), they teach English and also share their own culture with students.

As an ALT with Interac, you'll work at schools from kindergarten to high school all over Japan. Your job is two parts: teaching English and showing students a bit of your culture. These two roles go together, and by doing both, you’ll become skilled at teaching and sharing your culture.

Interac has full support for your set-up in Japan, all you have to do is get to Japan, we do the hard parts. We'll arrange housing, insurance, utlilites, and get you started with your schools. We also have intensive online and in-person training to get you ready for the classroom.

Teaching in Japan is a life-changing experience. If you're ready to go in a whole new direction and experience things you didn't think possible before, Interac is waiting for you.

Video and Photos

Program Highlights

  • Start things off right with an intensive (paid!) initial training and orientation session.
  • Work Mondays to Fridays with scheduled teaching hours between 8 am and 5 pm.
  • Attend on-going skills development and training programs.
  • Become an important part of your school and local community.
  • Take advantage of Interac’s Staff Preparation Program (SPP) and build portable skills you can leverage in the classroom or take with you into a potential staff position like recruiter, head teacher, trainer, or even office staff.

Popular Programs

Wide, open Hokkaido

Interac North Company is in charge of the Hokkaido and Tohoku area which is the largest area of Japan in terms of land mass. The kind of person who typically comes to Interac North has a more self-sufficient outlook on their time in Japan, compared to other areas. They are looking to get a “real Japan” experience for several years.

See Mt. Fuji!

Interac Kanto North Company covers the area known as the “Kanto-Koushinetsu” region, which is a large span of prefectures to the north and west of Tokyo, the nation’s capital. In this part of the country, there are many hidden towns and an abundance of nature, including hot springs, mountains with upper slopes famous for skiing, and many other delights for you to discover.

Active Yokohama

Interac Kanto South is centrally located in Yokohama, the largest city in Kanagawa Prefecture. Just out of the Tokyo metropolis, Kanagawa is a metropolitan prefecture. Everything is only minutes away from the city centre by train, making it the perfect place to start your teaching career in Japan.

Full of Tradition

Interac Kansai & South Central covers a large part of the central region, based in Nagoya with offices in Hamamatsu and Osaka. There are a wide range of placements and school styles for teachers in Osaka, with many positions being in rural areas or suburbs. The kind of ALT we are looking for within the Kansai area is a teacher who will be looking to get involved in the local community and isn’t just requiring a ‘day job’.

World Heritage

The West Company area is one of the largest across Interac. It encompasses 16 prefectures ranging from Hiroshima to Fukuoka, including Saga and Okayama. This means there is a huge variety of activities and places to visit for anyone looking to teach English in Fukuoka or further!

Program Reviews

4.41 Rating
based on 99 reviews
  • 5 rating 49.49%
  • 4 rating 46.46%
  • 3 rating 2.02%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 2.02%
  • Benefits 3.9
  • Support 4.6
  • Fun 4.3
  • Facilities 4.35
  • Safety 4.8
Showing 41 - 48 of 99 reviews
Default avatar
Regina
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Life Changing Experience: Living & Teaching in the Land of the Rising Sun

Your decision to take this next step will enrich your life in a personal and professional way that no review can delineate. I've experienced living and teaching English in different cities across Japan through Interac for 6 years. My experience has been fulfilling, positively challenging, and, most importantly, self-actualizing. My arrival and settling in Japan were very smooth with the support of Interac. 

The Japanese culture is well known and admired by many, but being fully immersed in their way of life and witnessing it firsthand has exceeded my expectations. One of the most rewarding things has been the wonderful relationships I've cultivated with students and the positive impact I've had on their lives (and theirs on my own) through cultural exchange and English language education. 

English language education and cross-cultural understanding continue to grow and impact so many lives across Japan, and it has been an honor to be a part of the Interac group, which has significantly contributed to this. 

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Come with an open mind and a willingness to adapt to the way of life in Japan.
Pros
  • Impactful: You will immensely impact the lives of so many students, their outlook on other cultures and societies, and their interest in learning English. 
  • Lifelong Relationships: You will acquire so many meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life.
  • Language and Culture Acquisition: You will learn how to speak Japanese and acquire some of the most positive attributes of cultural immersion.
Cons
  • Language Barrier: This can be difficult, especially when dealing with more serious matters outside of social settings.
  • Isolation and Homesickness: The language barrier and being miles away from family and your own culture (especially the food for me) can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness.
  • The "unspoken" rules/culture: This may be a challenge, depending on your cultural norms and how well you can adapt.
42 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Regina,

I'm glad you've had a good experience with Interac the last 6 years, and thank you for your hard work and contributions to local communities. We're very happy to have you on the team.

Many teachers say that the students and their interactions with the students are the best part of the job, and I agree 100% with that.

The photo above is really lovely. Where is this? I love sakura season.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Jeraldine
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

ALT LIFE ( Sapporo branch)

I have been with Interac for 2 years and it has been a great experience. I have been through a lot last year may it be personal or at work, my company (Interac) has helped me to get through it. They always provides their assistance and support. The staff were very kind and friendly and always motivates us.
There were always have a work life balance since the job was very light. Time schedule were too light where you can still travel and have fun while working. I must say that my experience here so far are outstanding!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
I had a chance to travel and experienced the Ice drift walk in the eastern part of Hokkaido when my company had sent me to substitute to one of the school.
Pros
  • New experience
  • New environment
  • New people
Cons
  • It was too cold
  • Its quite far
32 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Jeraldine,

Thanks for your review. Very glad you've had a fufilling time the last 2 years. Although I'm not familiar with the struggles you've faced, I do know that our staff does all that they can to support teachers as much as possible.

I agree with you as well that the work-life balance of the ALT lifestyle is really great. It's one of the most attractive parts of living in Japan and working as an ALT.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Richard
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Being an ALT in Japan

I've been an ALT since 2018, with Interac. Being an ALT is being a cultural ambassador. Aside from that, I'm assisting the JTEs in the class, I also create games for the students in order to have more engaging and fun learning experience. Which I thought that's all of it. But with Interac, there's a lot to explore. We get to expand our knowledge and experiences. We get to improve our lesson planning & teaching skills which was learnt from our training sessions. And we get to establish rapport with HRTs and JTEs.
That's why with Interac, you are not alone. You can get the support that you need in your ALT journey/life.

What was your funniest moment?
The time when I was dispatched to a school with a little knowledge of Japanese words... I ended up gesturing every words with the Japanese teachers.
Pros
  • Culture awareness
  • Learning new language
  • Safe environment
Cons
40 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Richard,

Thanks for the review and for your hard work in schools since 2018. I agree that there's a lot more to explore as an ALT and that doesn't get enough attention.

I agree that our support network is the best in the business, and I think that's one of the reasons for Interac's continued success in schools.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Joe
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Go deeper than just visiting Japan

Working in Japan is a wonderful and challenging experience.
I have lived in Japan for 11 years. I started by studying abroad for one year and then came back have taught for 10 years through two different programs. I have lived in Okinawa, Honshu and Hokkaido. It has given me a wide view of how similar and in ways, different Japan is. Yet, the heart of Japan is similar and unique. Japanese are warmhearted and hard workers.

Working in Japan gives you a much deeper chance to get to know the land and people better than just traveling. In my experience, Japanese education is very good and the students enjoy learning. I have also enjoyed the chance to become part of the community taking part in local festivals and groups. I am married to a national and we have two kids and have made our home here.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
There is a big difference between living and working in a place compared to visiting a place. Be aware of the stages of living abroad and how to move through them. They are not always in order and can repeat more than once. Take care of yourself. I know I sound like a dad (I am a father of two) but eat well, set a healthy sleep pattern and exercise. Most ALTs are placed in the country side. For someone that likes to be outgoing it is great.
Put concentrated effort into learning Japanese and the culture. As a general rule of life you get the good, or bad, of what you put into anything. That includes work, studies, relationships and so on. So, enjoy your time and work hard and play hard. Your co-workers are a great way to learn about Japan but also spend time making outside of work friends. If you have a hobby/passion from your home country you might find some people here that enjoy it too or start a new. Making friends outside of work really helps the overall experience.
If you choose to teach in Japan, I highly recommend staying for more than one year. I have heard many people say that when you live and work abroad you spend the first year learning and then from the second year can really do your job. That being said, come with an attitude of always learning and improving your work and self. It will benefit you and those around you.
Enjoy Japan! 
Pros
  • Working with young adults and children is fun and rewarding
  • Get to visit many famous and less known locations in Japan on time off
  • A unique chance to go as deep into the culture and language as you like or can
Cons
  • Raise and bonuses even after a tenure are not possible
  • Low pay by western standards 
36 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the review. You're in the long-term category so your experience is very valuable. I'm glad that Interac has been able to be a part of helping you create a life for you and your family here in Japan.

I agree with you that the Japanese are warmhearted and getting to know them by living here is a better way than by just travelling. Being a part of the local community also helps a lot.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Sean
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Decade of Empowering Education: Reflecting on My Time as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan

Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of serving as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan, partnering with Interac to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of education in this remarkable country. As I reflect on my journey, I am humbled by the countless experiences, lessons, and connections that have enriched both my professional and personal growth.

From my very first day in the classroom, I embraced a commitment to excellence that has guided my interactions with students, colleagues, and the community. With a passion for language learning and cultural exchange, I have striven to create dynamic and engaging lessons that inspire curiosity and foster confidence in English communication.

As an ALT, I recognize the invaluable role of cultural exchange in promoting mutual understanding and global citizenship. Through collaborative projects, cultural presentations, and interactive activities, I have challenged myself to bridge the gap between Japanese and English-speaking communities, fostering empathy, respect, and appreciation for diversity.

Central to my approach as an ALT is the belief in the potential of every student to succeed. By tailoring lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities, I have encouraged students to discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve their academic and personal goals. Whether through language proficiency exams, speech contests, or international exchanges, witnessing the growth and achievement of my students has been profoundly rewarding.

Collaborative Partnerships:
My experience as an ALT has been characterized by collaborative partnerships with fellow educators, administrators, and the community. Through communication, teamwork, and a shared commitment to student success, I have tried to keep a supportive and inclusive learning environment where innovation thrives and every voice is valued.

As I reflect on the past decade, I am proud of the impact Interac and I have made in the lives of students, schools, and communities across Japan. From fostering English proficiency to promoting cultural understanding, our partnership has contributed to the enrichment of education and the cultivation of global citizens.

As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, friendships, and memories that have defined my time as an ALT in Japan. With unwavering dedication and a passion for transformative education, I am eager to continue inspiring future generations of learners and ambassadors of cross-cultural understanding.

In conclusion, my time as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan has been a transformative journey of growth, learning, and empowerment. Through collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to excellence, I am confident that Interac will continue to attract and nurture talented educators who are eager to make a meaningful impact in the classrooms of Japan. Join us in shaping the future of education and fostering global citizenship – the adventure awaits!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I could do this all over again, I would start this program earlier.
Pros
  • Cultural Immersion: You can learn about Japan and its culture first-hand.
  • Language Acquisition: You will improve your Japanese speaking ability.
  • Impactful Teaching: ALTs have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
Cons
  • Language Barrier: This may present some challenges both inside and outside of the classroom
  • Cultural Adjustment: Adjusting to cultural differences, such as societal norms, work practices, and expectations, can be a significant challenge for some ALTs, requiring patience, flexibility, and cultural sensitivity.
49 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Sean,

Thanks for your detailed review! It's inspiring to hear from teachers who have as much experience as you do. I'm particularly interested in the collaborative partnerships you've made and how that impacted your teaching.

I really agree with you and think the biggest impact the ALT makes is on the lives of the students. I certainly felt like my students were better prepared for their futures as a result of studying English.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Brian
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great location

Was paired in a location that fit my needs perfectly. My teachers, schools and the staff at Interac has been incredibly helpful and welcoming and if there any issues, it is usually addressed really quickly. The job has a lot of fun moments and it's nice to be involved with the local community and enjoy many of the activities that it brings. I learnt a lot about Japanese culture and by extension a unique culture to even most Japanese people. I was able to do interesting activities like sumo, hiking and partake in a lot of local events unique to the islands.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Be adaptable and live humbly.
Pros
  • Educational
  • Safe
  • Fun
Cons
  • Can get lonely at times being away from friends and family back home
47 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Brian,

I'm glad to hear you are enjoying your island placement. Working on an island presents its own challenges, but every teacher we've placed on one really enjoyed it.

It's wonderful that you're able to participate in local activities and experience the local community and culture.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
Pedro
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Being an ALT is Fun and Rewarding

Being an assistant language teacher (ALT), in Japan, has been the most rewarding job of my life. Everyday, I come into work greeted by good energy and happy faces, to do a fun job. Kids are hilarious and I enjoy working with them.

I love living in Japan; everywhere you go, it's clean and safe. I also love how old tradition is blended with new technology, making a culture that is both ancient and modern, traditional and progressive. There's nothing like it.

If you like living in different cultures, if you like sharing your own with others, if you want to work with kids but don't want to deal with discipling them or parental stuff then this job is for you.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Make an effort to learn Japanese. It is essential to enjoying your stay here. At the same time, if you've always wanted to learn Japanese, this job will give you the immersion you need to make quick progress.
Pros
  • Japan has lots of holidays and the job is "9 to 5".
  • The job is fun.
  • Cultural immersion, see the Japan that tourists never see.
Cons
  • Culture Shock: Japanese culture has many unspoken rules.
  • Culture Shock: Japanese culture is very formal.
  • Culture Shock: Japanese communication is very non-verbal.
49 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi Pedro,

Thanks for your review, and it's great to hear that you're enjoying teaching with Interac. The kids really are the best part of the job I think.

Living in Japan is really a great experience and I agree there's nothing like it. That's a beautiful waterfall in the photo there. One thing about Japan I really like is how every area has an accessible natural attraction of some kind, like a beach, a waterfall, mountains, etc.

I never thought about the job as one for people who didn't want to do "parental stuff," but I guess you can see it that way. Teachers are a kind of "third parent" and the work we do is very important for the kids.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Default avatar
William
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Teaching with Interac

A wonderful experience in which a little hard work goes a long way to making a rewarding experience for yourself. Company does its utmost to set you up for success. All you need to do is seize the adventure for yourself.

I’ve been working here for six years, and I’m one of the younger employees. This experience was very helpful for me right out of school. Many teachers have come and discovered new lives for themselves here and elsewhere. Some people get the teaching bug and go back home to continue. Some move on to other countries. Some stay for a long time. I’m excited for my future here.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Embrace working in the schools. People are the real character of a country. Don’t get so wrapped up sightseeing when there’s plenty of connections to be had in your local community.
Pros
  • Support for Expats
  • Rewarding teaching experience
  • Opportunity to explore lesser known areas
Cons
  • Low pay by American standards
  • It is a job first, and some coworkers are passionate about this facet.
  • It can be isolating if you expect others to make the first move.
45 people found this review helpful.
Response from Interac Japan

Hi William,

Thanks for your review. Six years already right out of school, reminds me of how I came to Japan. I totally agree that life in Japan is what you make of it.

I've seen the same thing you mentioned about teachers coming and going, some move on within Japan, some return home or go elsewhere. But, I think that's the same in life anywhere, people and situations change over time. One of my good friend from my early years with Interac now is a teacher in the UK, and another went on to own his own bicycle shop in Japan.

Those are some nice photos you shared! I like how Japan is a place where you can see forests, oceans, and mountains all in one shot! The street scene reminds me of the suburb of Sendai I used to live in.

I'm glad to hear you're excited for your future in Japan. We're glad that we can be a part of it and have you on the team.

Regards,

George

Interac Head Office
Tokyo

Questions & Answers

Hi Jodie, Thanks for your question. We do have positions occasionally in Nagasaki Prefecture, as well as other locations in Kyushu. We cannot promise a position exactly in Sasebo, since the placement situation is fluid each season, however if you choose to make an application and express a desire to be placed in or near the area, we will make an effort to find a position you'll be able to agree...

Hi John, Thanks for your question. We do not have tenure limits, so you are welcome to stay as long as you like. There is also a career system within Interac for advancement within our organization into administrative positions such as Head Teacher, Management Trainee, Trainer, and Managing Consultant. Regards, Interac Head Office Tokyo

Hi Belinda, We do not set a certain number of years of teaching experience as a requirement. Having teaching experience of any kind will definitely help you in the application process, but we have teachers without any previous experience who are excellent in class. We provide thorough initial training so you'll feel confident about standing in front of students. If you have any other questions...

Hi Belinda, The requirements to apply as an Interac ALT are: -Be a native-level speaker of English -Have received an education conducted in English for at least 12 years -Have at least a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited university -Be a team-player that is professional, flexible, cheerful, and energetic -Be under 60 years of age We welcome people with teaching experience of any...