Japan ('Nihon' or 'Nippon', in Japanese) is situated in northeastern Asia between the North Pacific and the Sea of Japan. Its land area, at 377,835 square kilometers, is approximately the same as that of Germany and Switzerland combined, or slightly smaller than California. Japan's population is over 127 million with the majority residing in densely populated urban areas. Tokyo, the country's capital and largest city, the surrounding metropolitan area and some of its suburbs has a combined population of over 12 million.
Japan consists of four major islands; Honshu (on which Tokyo is situated), Kyushu, Hokkaido and Shikoku and is surrounded by more than 4,000 smaller islands. Its topographical features include coastlines with varied scenery, towering mountains, which are very often volcanic and twisted valleys.
There is only one official language spoken in Japan, which is of course Japanese. However, many Japanese are able to understand English to a certain extent, since English is the foreign language that everyone must learn as part of compulsory education.
Even if you don't understand Japanese, you can still certainly enjoy Japan. But if you know a few everyday Japanese phrases, then it will make your trip even more memorable. A few words make a big difference.
An English teacher in Japan will have access to such things as tea ceremony, martial arts, sumo, kabuki, calligraphy and festivals. However, these more traditional pursuits are balanced by more modern pastimes both real and virtual. Teachers will get behind the apparent shyness and reserve to experience the warmth and friendliness of the Japanese people.
Whatever your interests, as an English teacher, Japan has plenty to offer!
