Dave Thomas comments

It's interesting but little wonder Japan is getting English teachers from countries such as Nepal and Philippines. The main issue is salary. Starting salaries for direct contract English teachers are almost identical to what I received 38 years ago. With inflation and little support from the schools it's little wonder that traditional English teachers from UK, Australia, and the USA are reluctant to even consider a job here. In Tokyo I can't see how you could survive on such a low salary.

When I arrived, the yen was strong, and the bubble was at full surge. We still had a month off or so and a free apartment. They didn't bother to sign up anyone for pension or health insurance (not mandatory at the time) and you could enjoy your holidays from your earnings. Not so today.

Having said that, it's a chance to get your feet wet and more importantly make future connections for work.

My company promised classes at the local office and then dispatched me out to a university three days a week never once mentioned in the contract. I stuck it out and parlayed my MA TESOL into a university career that lasted 35 years. For those seeking a two-year holiday English teaching will not be the choice it once was. I suspect the adage is true, you get what you pay for. The English business here has always been exploitive of both students and teachers. Take a job on your own terms or just stay home and find something else to do with your life.

It's a sickening common event in Japan. The well-known and public loved figures can pretty much do anything and escape any punishment. The faux apology is revolting.