Work With Us
ナレーター — Join the team at Jotoku-ji Temple
We are looking for a dedicated individual to introduce multinational audiences to the history, philosophy, and practices of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony — and to help share the Symphony of Tranquillity with the world.
Japanese Tea Ceremony Educator
& Cultural Demonstrator
The Narrative Master — 語り部
Key Responsibilities
- Explain the history and cultural significance of the Japanese tea ceremony to guests from around the world
- Guide participants through the ceremony experience with clarity, warmth, and cultural authenticity
- Answer questions adapted for diverse age groups and backgrounds
- Manage and curate tea ceremony equipment and materials
- Create educational content as needed
- Ensure all demonstrations are accurate, respectful, and culturally authentic
- Handle website marketing, English enquiries, scheduling, and social media on non-ceremony days
How the role works
This is a hybrid position. Three days per week are devoted to ceremony narration and guest education. Two days per week cover website marketing, English enquiries, scheduling, and social media management. Weekends are free.
The working language is English. Basic Japanese is welcome, as is the willingness and enthusiasm to learn.
Skills & Background
- Knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony traditions and a genuine respect for them
- Excellent public speaking and communication abilities
- Ability to engage and educate audiences of varied backgrounds
- Understanding of Japanese culture and history
- Experience in teaching, tour guidance, or cultural interpretation is preferred
- Graduates in languages or humanities are particularly welcome to apply
- Experience in museums, cultural centres, schools, or community events is an advantage
Above all, we are looking for someone professional, detail-oriented, and driven by a genuine passion for cultural education and cross-cultural understanding.
Living & Working in Kyoto
Theoretical training is provided before relocation to Japan. Practical training continues in Kyoto upon arrival. Assessment is via written thesis and video interview.
A fully furnished one-person apartment in central Kyoto is provided, four minutes from the station. Part-time access to a company vehicle is available with an international driving licence.
The company arranges the visa process through a specialist lawyer. This is a one-year renewable assignment.
The remuneration package is designed to allow comfortable living in Japan without recourse to personal funds.
Ready to apply?
Use our contact form to introduce yourself. Include your background, relevant experience, and contact details — we will reply to arrange next steps.
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