Sid in Japan

Becoming an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in Japan is an exciting but sometimes nerve-wracking experience. Whether you’re placed in a bustling city or a remote countryside town, your first days at school will set the tone for your time as an ALT. This guide will help you prepare for your first day, understand Japanese school culture, navigate the work environment, and adjust to the differences between rural and urban schools.

Preparing for Your First Day as an ALT

The first day at a new job can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can make a great first impression and feel more confident in your role.

Checklist of What to Bring

• Indoor Shoes (uwabaki, 上靴): Schools require separate indoor shoes, usually plain and easy to slip on. Schools do have slippers available for guests, but don’t make a habit of using them (they’re also usually pretty uncomfortable).
• Formal Attire: A suit or “business-casual “cool-biz” outfit is best for the first day. Some schools are more relaxed, but it’s better to overdress than underdress.
• Lesson Plan for Self-Introduction: Many ALTs give a short self-introduction lesson, so prepare a PowerPoint, pictures, or a fun game.
• Notebook and Pen: You’ll need to take notes on schedules, teachers, and lesson details.
• Handkerchief and Tissues: Many Japanese bathrooms don’t have paper towels or hand dryers.
• Lunch (if necessary): Some schools provide school lunch (kyūshoku, 給食), but not all do—check in advance.
• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially in summer.
• Small Gift (Optional): A small souvenir from your home country can be a nice way to introduce yourself to your coworkers.

How to Introduce Yourself

Your introduction will set the stage for your interactions with students and teachers. Keep it simple but engaging:

• To Teachers: If you’d like to use Japanese, you can follow this script – “はじめまして。ALTの[Your Name]です。よろしくお願いします。” (“Nice to meet you. I’m [Your Name], the ALT. I look forward to working with you.”)
• To Students: Use basic English (and some Japanese if you’re able) to connect with them. A short slideshow with photos of your home country, hobbies, and favorite foods can make your introduction more interactive.

Making a Good First Impression

• Be Early: Arriving at least 15 minutes before your start time is expected in Japan.
• Be Friendly and Enthusiastic: A smile goes a long way in building rapport with both students and teachers.
• Observe Before Acting: Pay attention to how teachers interact with each other and students before jumping in.

Understanding Japanese School Culture

Japanese schools operate quite differently from those in other countries. Adapting to these cultural differences will make your job smoother.

Basics

• Greet everyone with “おはようございます” (Ohayou gozaimasu – Good morning) when you arrive. Respond similarly when other teachers arrive too.
• Join in or listen to meetings if invited.
• Help out with cleaning time (sōji, 掃除) to show teamwork.
• Bow slightly when greeting teachers and students.
• Eat lunch with students if encouraged—it helps build relationships.
• Don’t sit at your desk on your phone—it’s seen as unprofessional.
• Don’t leave work exactly at the bell without checking with your supervisor.
• Don’t be overly casual with teachers, especially those older than you.
• Don’t assume you have a fixed role—some schools expect you to take charge, while others want you to follow their lead.

Office Culture

• Senpai-Kohai Hierarchy: Senior teachers (senpai, 先輩) often have more influence. Younger or new teachers (kōhai, 後輩) defer to them.
• Collectivism in the Workplace: Japanese schools emphasize teamwork. Volunteering for small tasks (e.g., passing out worksheets) shows initiative.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Japanese workplaces often rely on reading the atmosphere (kūki wo yomu, 空気を読む) rather than direct instructions.

Navigating the Japanese Work Environment as a Foreigner

Being a foreign teacher in a Japanese workplace means adjusting to a different work culture. Here’s a little bit on what to expect:

Expectations and Etiquette

• Work Ethic: Japanese schools value hard work and dedication. Even if you finish your lessons, staying engaged and offering to help is appreciated. But, as you are an “Assistant” Language Teacher, please don’t feel pressured into staying beyond your contracted hours.
• Formality in Speech: Using polite Japanese (desu/masu forms) with teachers shows respect.
• Gift-Giving Culture: Small gifts (omiyage, お土産) from your home country or during holidays are a nice gesture.
• Drinking Culture: Work-related drinking parties (nomikai, 飲み会) are common. While not mandatory, attending at least one can help you bond with colleagues. Don’t feel pressured to drink, either. There will often be non-drinking teachers at these events as well.

Work Ethic: Japanese schools value hard work and dedication. Even if you finish your lessons, staying engaged and offering to help is appreciated.

Formality in Speech: Using polite Japanese (desu/masu forms) with teachers shows respect.

Gift-Giving Culture: Small gifts (omiyage, お土産) from your home country or during holidays are a nice gesture.

Drinking Culture: Work-related drinking parties (nomikai, 飲み会) are common. While not mandatory, attending at least one can help you bond with colleagues.

Working in a Rural School vs. an Urban School

Your experience as an ALT will vary greatly depending on whether you’re placed in a city or the countryside.

• Urban Schools
  • More English-speaking teachers.
  • Greater access to teaching resources.
  • Larger ALT community for socializing.
  • More students per class, making individual interaction harder.
  • Schools may be stricter with set lesson plans.
  • Higher cost of living.
• Rural Schools
  • Smaller classes, allowing for more student interaction.
  • Stronger community ties—teachers and students will get to know you well.
  • A chance to experience traditional Japanese culture.
  • Fewer English speakers, making communication difficult.
  • Limited access to entertainment, shopping, and social events.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent or nonexistent.

Final Thoughts

Starting as an ALT can feel overwhelming, but with preparation and an open mind, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Understanding the culture, showing enthusiasm, and being flexible will help you adjust smoothly to your new role. Whether you’re in a big city or a small village, embracing the experience fully will make your time as an ALT unforgettable.