Salary Guides: How Much Can You Earn Teaching Different Countries?
Teaching abroad in China offers a wealth of opportunities for people of different lifestyles. However, with a population of 1.4 billion and 17 megacities – that is, cities of over 10 million people, it can be a headache narrowing down where would be best for you.
Whether you’re an introverted bookworm or an social butterfly, here’s where you can teach in China based on your star sign!
A Fun and Loose Guide on Where to Teach in China
This star-sign-inspired guide is a fun-but-loose way to inspire people to research different cities and locations across China. If you’re an avid follower of astrology and star signs, then you’ll appreciate our guide on where to teach in China! Each city has its own unique traits and can cater to people of all personalities, but these star signs and city compatibility can help provide a simple overview of cities in China!
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Where: Shanghai
Why: Known for being energetic and vigorous, those who are Aries embrace challenges and a fast-paced life, making them naturally gravitate towards teaching in Shanghai to initiate their TEFL journey in China. As a bustling metropolis that boasts of pulsing Chinese culture and a thriving international community, Shanghai is one of the most enchanting destinations to teach in China. With plenty of history, glamour, and an illuminating skyline, there’s no shortage of options for things to do in Shanghai.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Where: Hangzhou
Why: The Taurus star sign is characterised by strength, stability, and dependability. While also creative, they enjoy a comfortable pace of life which can be found in Hangzhou. As the capital of China’s Zhejiang province, Hangzhou offers liberating green spaces, expansive lakes, and rich cultural exhibits, making a TEFL experience here immersive but easy-going.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Where: Beijing or Chengdu
Why: Defined as versatile, curious, and kind, Beijing and Chengdu match the energies of the Gemini starsign. As the capital of China, teaching in Beijing offers a glimpse into an authentic East Asian culture, and this stark change of environment can appeal to Geminis who relish a change from their home country. While Beijing offers culture and history, Chengdu is known more for its agriculture and bamboo chomping Pandas, contrasting Beijing with a more laid-back lifestyle for teachers.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Where: Xi’an or Lijiang
Why: Described as intuitive, protective, and compassionate, those born under the Cancer star sign will deeply resonate with Xi’an and Lijiang. These cities have archaic memorabilia and exhibits in abundance, constantly reminding teachers of China’s deep rooted history. Xi’an is known for Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum, home of the Chinese Terracotta Warriors, and was one of China’s ancient capitals.
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Where: Shenzhen or Hong Kong
Why: Characterised by a fiery and courageous nature, those who identify with Leo will find an enchanting home in either Shenzhen or Hong Kong. As one of China’s most populous cities, Shenzhen is full of modern bustle and innovative hubs, and often labelled “China’s Silicon Valley.” Hong Kong is a city that needs no introduction – but we’ll do one anyway! As a global hub inviting travellers from all corners of the world, this melting pot of a city is exemplified by its bright lights, lavish neighborhoods, nightlife, and tourist spots and will satiate any social butterfly’s lust for stimulation.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Where: Nanjing
Why: Virgo’s detail-oriented nature makes them incredibly organised and methodical, making Nanjing a spot they’ll naturally gravitate towards. Nanjing, although known for enduring a dark history of war crimes during Japanese occupation, is a hub for intellectual history. With UNESCO World Heritage sites, an abundance of museums, archaic pagodas, and more, Nanjing is a place that will satiate anyone’s thirst for intellect.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
Where: Hangzhou
Why: Defined by social, charming, and harmonious characteristics, Libras can find a healthy compromise of beauty and bustle in Hangzhou. Hangzhou is known for its idyllic lakes, tea culture, but also a thriving nightlife, busy markets, and more.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Where: Harbin
Why: Defined by a daring yet stubborn nature, those who are Scorpios aren’t afraid to pave their own journey. As an independent traveller and TEFL teacher, Scorpio teachers may relish the peculiarity of Harbin – the “Ice City of China”. Due to the past occupation of a Russian base during the Russia-Japan war, the city’s Russian influence doesn’t go unnoticed, as it is often dubbed “the Moscow of the East”.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Where: Sichuan
Why: Sagittarians are naturally open minded and adventurous, making Sichuan a compatible destination to teach English in China. Teaching in Sichuan allows you to gain access to its spicy hot pots, captivating natural sceneries, and a gateway to Tibetan culture.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
Where: Shenzhen
Why: Capricorns are ambitious, disciplined, and hardworking. Shenzhen, a strong economic zone and hub for technology and industry, is perfect for a Capricorn who seeks career growth and professional success. Shenzhen has the 3rd largest economic output in China (behind Beijing and Shanghai), harnessing a hardworking and business oriented environment.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Where: Shanghai
Why: As independent and forward-thinking individuals, Aquarians will resonate with the opportunity to teach in Shanghai, China’s modern financial and innovation hub. Despite its cultural roots, Shanghai is also a centre for international investment, creating a diverse and forward-thinking environment where teachers can enjoy the local culture as well as the international scene.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Where: Suzhou
Why: Touted to be artistic, dreamy, and wise, Pisces can fully embrace Suzhou’s tranquil environment. Nicknamed the “Venice of the Orient”, Suzhou boasts of idyllic canals, lantern-ridden balconies and wooden boats cruising through the city.
Don’t Overthink Where to Teach in China! While using star signs and astrology is a fun way to learn more about what would complement our lifestyle while teaching in China, it’s also important not to overthink it! Chinese cities, whether Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, or elsewhere, are some of the most diverse cities in the world. With millions of people in these cities, each city can cater to a multitude of personalities, whether you’re an avid outgoer or you prefer to slow things down.