Teaching Yoga in Japan: Overcoming the Language Barrier

Article by Dylan Robertson.

One major issue for foreign yoga teachers visiting Japan is the language barrier.

Being a bilingual yoga teacher, and having taken yoga classes in Japan from foreign and Japanese teachers in English, Japanese, and a mix of both since 2002, I thought I’d give my 2-cents.

Can You Get By Teaching Yoga Just in English in Japan?

In central Tokyo, you will come across many people who speak fluent English. These people may have lived, studied, or worked abroad and will be glad to have a chance to practice their English.

In general, however, most people are not able to converse in English. Although they may use many English words in their daily life, often the pronunciation and meaning are altered considerably. In most cases, when you are speaking English, you will need to speak very slowly, clearly and use the simplest vocabulary.

Should You Learn to Teach in Japanese?

Central Tokyo currently has a glut of instructors and studios that offer yoga classes in Japanese. Your students could go and take a class in Japanese anytime, anywhere.

If you are a foreign teacher in Japan, your yoga class will tend to attract people who speak at least a little English or who aspire to do so. By attending your class, they can flex their English comprehension skills and practice yoga at the same time.

Foreign yoga teachers also provide a novelty factor. Japan is a very homogeneous society. Hence, taking a class in English from a foreign teacher is something different that people may want to try. These people are hoping to discover a fresh perspective and something new.

As a foreign instructor, you are not expected to teach in Japanese. I do think, however, that your students will appreciate the gesture of respect for their culture if you make the effort to use a few Japanese words.

But stick mainly to English, unless you are quite sure of your proficiency in Japanese. My guess is students would prefer to take a class in perfect English rather than one in mangled Japanese.

Common Pitfalls When Teaching in English

Foreign teachers not used to teaching Japanese people often misread their classes. Remember that the students who approach you, ask questions, or voice their opinions will tend to be the ones most confident about their English. A common mistake is to assume that just because one or two people speek fluent English, the entire class can, too. Most Japanese will politely smile and nod their heads or laugh at your jokes even if they have no idea what you are saying. Even the most outgoing of Japanese are often too shy to put up their hand and tell you to slow down, use simpler vocabulary, and speak more clearly because they fear offending you or creating an awkward situation.

Using an Interpreter

Often a student will show up with very fluent English and they will agree to interpret for you. But keep in mind that while they may speak good English in a standard conversation, they may not be able to adequately translate advanced vocabulary or abstract concepts well. And, if you say a whole lot before pausing for them to translate, much of your message may be lost. So, even when using a translator, it pays to speak slowly, clearly, use simple vocabulary, and pause often.

If You Do Speak Japanese

If you do happen to speak fluent Japanese, I still think you are better off teaching mostly in English to make the most of your niche.

However, being able to speak Japanese fluently does definitely come in handy. If your students appear lost, you can always add in some Japanese instructions to clear things up. This is especially handy if they are in a position where they cannot see you demonstrating the pose or when you are giving hands-on adjustments.

Comments?

If you a foreigner who has taught yoga in Japan, what were your experiences and did they match what I have said above? Do my tips make sense?

Are you a Japanese who likes to sometimes take classes in English? How do you feel about my tips?