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Japan Japan: Shintoku (NICE-25L-ST07)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   11/01/2026

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Construction
1
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1237 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 108000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
1
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Chitose (CTS)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Obihiro for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. From CTS to the meeting point (Shintoku station), it takes 2 hours by express train. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will, together with the community members, mainly do 1) Agricultural work (planting, weeding, cultivating and harvesting of the organic vegetables, taking care of animals, cleaning the animal houses, etc.), 2) House work (cooking and cleanings) and possibly 3) Assisting the cheese production, running the cafeteria, handcrafts and textiles. Be ready to do what will be needed!

Accomodation and food

Share the rooms in the facility which the community members live in. Cooking with the members by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available.

Location and leisure

Shintoku town is an agricultural country side with big scale of nature and farms, at the foot of Mt. Milk and located in the center of Hokkaido island, near Obihiro and 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer. Other activities - Monthly birthday parties. Sightseeing (hot springs, famous places in this area).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 1998 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Shintoku and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
At Shintoku farm in Hokkaido, they grow cows, pigs, vegetables with utilizing bacterium and produce various types of milk products as well as running the cafe (soft cream and cakes are so yummy!) which is a popular spot for the local people and tourists. Their cheese got the best prize in the World contest for the mountain cheese! The project has been revived this year since 2019.
*Outcome of this project: So many vols. have joined this community and greatly contributed both physically and mentally. There is even a case to marry one of the community members:) Please see the long term goal of this project as Local SDGs at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/n0-68540773 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Learn about organic farming, taking care of animals such as cows, chickens. Learn a group work with various types of people. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Shintoku Farm website=https://www.kyodogakusha.org/ (only in Japanese)

Requirements

Only female! Motivation letter is needed. Interest and motivation to work and live in this type of community. Respect to their life. Some levels of Japanese speaking skills as well as high motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of agriculture or construction can be useful! Language - English and Japanese. Not many members can speak basic English (while the leader of the farm can speak very fluently!), so you will communicate with them in mixing simple English and Japanese.

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Shintoku (NICE-25L-ST08)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   05/04/2026

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Construction
1
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1423 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 135000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
1
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Chitose (CTS)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Obihiro for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. From CTS to the meeting point (Shintoku station), it takes 2 hours by express train. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will, together with the community members, mainly do 1) Agricultural work (planting, weeding, cultivating and harvesting of the organic vegetables, taking care of animals, cleaning the animal houses, etc.), 2) House work (cooking and cleanings) and possibly 3) Assisting the cheese production, running the cafeteria, handcrafts and textiles. Be ready to do what will be needed!

Accomodation and food

Share the rooms in the facility which the community members live in. Cooking with the members by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available.

Location and leisure

Shintoku town is an agricultural country side with big scale of nature and farms, at the foot of Mt. Milk and located in the center of Hokkaido island, near Obihiro and 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer. Other activities - Monthly birthday parties. Sightseeing (hot springs, famous places in this area).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 1998 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Shintoku and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
At Shintoku farm in Hokkaido, they grow cows, pigs, vegetables with utilizing bacterium and produce various types of milk products as well as running the cafe (soft cream and cakes are so yummy!) which is a popular spot for the local people and tourists. Their cheese got the best prize in the World contest for the mountain cheese! The project has been revived this year since 2019.
*Outcome of this project: So many vols. have joined this community and greatly contributed both physically and mentally. There is even a case to marry one of the community members:) Please see the long term goal of this project as Local SDGs at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/n0-68540773 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Learn about organic farming, taking care of animals such as cows, chickens. Learn a group work with various types of people. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Shintoku Farm website=https://www.kyodogakusha.org/ (only in Japanese)

Requirements

Only female! Motivation letter is needed. Interest and motivation to work and live in this type of community. Respect to their life. Some levels of Japanese speaking skills as well as high motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of agriculture or construction can be useful! Language - English and Japanese. Not many members can speak basic English (while the leader of the farm can speak very fluently!), so you will communicate with them in mixing simple English and Japanese.

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Aizu Wakamatsu (NICE-25L-AI08)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   05/04/2026

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1423 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 135000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
Japanese
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 5 hours by train and bus to the meeting point in Fukushima pref. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

  1. Supporting children's activities at affiliated kindergartens. 2) Learning support and cooking assistance at the Kodomo shokudo(The place where kids can eat for free or at a low cost with other people.). Specifically, homework and subject learning is provided to about 15 primary and junior high school students. They also assist in cooking dinner together with the staff. 3) Supporting for nature activities for kids(playing outside, cooking meals, preparing activities, etc.). Especially on weekends and during long holidays.

Accomodation and food

Shared rooms in accommodation owned by the organization. It is different place with activity place. Men and women separated room. Cooking by yourself. Staffs also stay at the facility. No wifi in the accommodation (but there is wifi in activity place).

Location and leisure

Aizu Wakamatsu city is called Samurai city. It is located in the eastern part of the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture. It is the central city of Aizu region, surrounded by rich nature, including Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro and blessed with natural scenery. The organization is located in an area with an atmosphere of Taisho era Romanticism. Winter season (Dec.-Mar.) is quite cold, so vols. need to bring warm cloths. Other activities - Join the local events, many opportunities to learn the local wisdom, etc. Sightseeing, short trip (hot springs, castle, famous places here).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDGs 1 (no poverty) and SDGs 4 (Quality Education), organized together with a local NPO, Terakoya Hojosha since 2008 that aims to create a diverse learning environment that places children at the center and aims to promote children's participation in society. Their mission is to support 'Children's participation in society' and create a happy future for children. A characteristic of the learning at Terakoya Hojosya is that it attends to children's interests. The aim to create a happy future with children, each and every one of whom is important. In their all projects, it is importance on approving and affirming children and fostering a sense of self-affirmation, which is the children's energy, through their connections with others.

Additional comments

Study theme - Volunteers will get knowledge of alternative school, children's social participation, child poverty in Japan. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation), respect to the local culture and way of the local organization, positive attitude to communicate with children, being Interested alternative school, children's social patriation and child poverty, high motivation to work hard, open mind, cooperation with others. Language - Japanese

Sustainable Development Goals

Quality Education Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Aizu Wakamatsu (NICE-25L-AI06)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   19/10/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
Educational
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1052 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 81000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
Japanese
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 5 hours by train and bus to the meeting point in Fukushima pref. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

  1. Supporting children's activities at affiliated kindergartens. 2) Learning support and cooking assistance at the Kodomo shokudo(The place where kids can eat for free or at a low cost with other people.). Specifically, homework and subject learning is provided to about 15 primary and junior high school students. They also assist in cooking dinner together with the staff. 3) Supporting for nature activities for kids(playing outside, cooking meals, preparing activities, etc.). Especially on weekends and during long holidays.

Accomodation and food

Shared rooms in accommodation owned by the organization. It is different place with activity place. Men and women separated room. Cooking by yourself. Staffs also stay at the facility. No wifi in the accommodation (but there is wifi in activity place).

Location and leisure

Aizu Wakamatsu city is called Samurai city. It is located in the eastern part of the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture. It is the central city of Aizu region, surrounded by rich nature, including Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro and blessed with natural scenery. The organization is located in an area with an atmosphere of Taisho era Romanticism. Winter season (Dec.-Mar.) is quite cold, so vols. need to bring warm cloths. Other activities - Join the local events, many opportunities to learn the local wisdom, etc. Sightseeing, short trip (hot springs, castle, famous places here).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDGs 1 (no poverty) and SDGs 4 (Quality Education), organized together with a local NPO, Terakoya Hojosha since 2008 that aims to create a diverse learning environment that places children at the center and aims to promote children's participation in society. Their mission is to support 'Children's participation in society' and create a happy future for children. A characteristic of the learning at Terakoya Hojosya is that it attends to children's interests. The aim to create a happy future with children, each and every one of whom is important. In their all projects, it is importance on approving and affirming children and fostering a sense of self-affirmation, which is the children's energy, through their connections with others.

Additional comments

Study theme - Volunteers will get knowledge of alternative school, children's social participation, child poverty in Japan.
Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months).
Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation), respect to the local culture and way of the local organization, positive attitude to communicate with children, being Interested alternative school, children's social patriation and child poverty, high motivation to work hard, open mind, cooperation with others. Language - Japanese

Sustainable Development Goals

Quality Education Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Aizu Wakamatsu (NICE-25L-AI07)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   11/01/2026

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
Educational
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1237 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 108000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
Japanese
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 5 hours by train and bus to the meeting point in Fukushima pref. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

  1. Supporting children's activities at affiliated kindergartens. 2) Learning support and cooking assistance at the Kodomo shokudo(The place where kids can eat for free or at a low cost with other people.). Specifically, homework and subject learning is provided to about 15 primary and junior high school students. They also assist in cooking dinner together with the staff. 3) Supporting for nature activities for kids(playing outside, cooking meals, preparing activities, etc.). Especially on weekends and during long holidays.

Accomodation and food

Shared rooms in accommodation owned by the organization. It is different place with activity place. Men and women separated room. Cooking by yourself. Staffs also stay at the facility. No wifi in the accommodation (but there is wifi in activity place).

Location and leisure

Aizu Wakamatsu city is called Samurai city. It is located in the eastern part of the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture. It is the central city of Aizu region, surrounded by rich nature, including Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro and blessed with natural scenery. The organization is located in an area with an atmosphere of Taisho era Romanticism. Winter season (Dec.-Mar.) is quite cold, so vols. need to bring warm cloths. Other activities - Join the local events, many opportunities to learn the local wisdom, etc. Sightseeing, short trip (hot springs, castle, famous places here).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDGs 1 (no poverty) and SDGs 4 (Quality Education), organized together with a local NPO, Terakoya Hojosha since 2008 that aims to create a diverse learning environment that places children at the center and aims to promote children's participation in society. Their mission is to support 'Children's participation in society' and create a happy future for children. A characteristic of the learning at Terakoya Hojosya is that it attends to children's interests. The aim to create a happy future with children, each and every one of whom is important. In their all projects, it is importance on approving and affirming children and fostering a sense of self-affirmation, which is the children's energy, through their connections with others.

Additional comments

Study theme - Volunteers will get knowledge of alternative school, children's social participation, child poverty in Japan.
Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months).
Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation), respect to the local culture and way of the local organization, positive attitude to communicate with children, being Interested alternative school, children's social patriation and child poverty, high motivation to work hard, open mind, cooperation with others. Language - Japanese

Sustainable Development Goals

Quality Education Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Shintoku (NICE-25L-ST05)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   27/07/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Construction
1
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 866 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 54000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
1
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Chitose (CTS)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Obihiro for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. From CTS to the meeting point (Shintoku station), it takes 2 hours by express train. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will, together with the community members, mainly do 1) Agricultural work (planting, weeding, cultivating and harvesting of the organic vegetables, taking care of animals, cleaning the animal houses, etc.), 2) House work (cooking and cleanings) and possibly 3) Assisting the cheese production, running the cafeteria, handcrafts and textiles. Be ready to do what will be needed!

Accomodation and food

Share the rooms in the facility which the community members live in. Cooking with the members by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available.

Location and leisure

Shintoku town is an agricultural country side with big scale of nature and farms, at the foot of Mt. Milk and located in the center of Hokkaido island, near Obihiro and 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer. Other activities - Monthly birthday parties. Sightseeing (hot springs, famous places in this area).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 1998 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Shintoku and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
At Shintoku farm in Hokkaido, they grow cows, pigs, vegetables with utilizing bacterium and produce various types of milk products as well as running the cafe (soft cream and cakes are so yummy!) which is a popular spot for the local people and tourists. Their cheese got the best prize in the World contest for the mountain cheese! The project has been revived this year since 2019.
*Outcome of this project: So many vols. have joined this community and greatly contributed both physically and mentally. There is even a case to marry one of the community members:) Please see the long term goal of this project as Local SDGs at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/n0-68540773 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Learn about organic farming, taking care of animals such as cows, chickens. Learn a group work with various types of people. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Shintoku Farm website=https://www.kyodogakusha.org/ (only in Japanese)

Requirements

Only female! Motivation letter is needed. Interest and motivation to work and live in this type of community. Respect to their life. Some levels of Japanese speaking skills as well as high motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of agriculture or construction can be useful! Language - English and Japanese. Not many members can speak basic English (while the leader of the farm can speak very fluently!), so you will communicate with them in mixing simple English and Japanese.

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Shintoku (NICE-25L-ST06)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   19/10/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Construction
1
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1052 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 81000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
1
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Chitose (CTS)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Obihiro for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. From CTS to the meeting point (Shintoku station), it takes 2 hours by express train. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will, together with the community members, mainly do 1) Agricultural work (planting, weeding, cultivating and harvesting of the organic vegetables, taking care of animals, cleaning the animal houses, etc.), 2) House work (cooking and cleanings) and possibly 3) Assisting the cheese production, running the cafeteria, handcrafts and textiles. Be ready to do what will be needed!

Accomodation and food

Share the rooms in the facility which the community members live in. Cooking with the members by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available.

Location and leisure

Shintoku town is an agricultural country side with big scale of nature and farms, at the foot of Mt. Milk and located in the center of Hokkaido island, near Obihiro and 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer. Other activities - Monthly birthday parties. Sightseeing (hot springs, famous places in this area).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 1998 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Shintoku and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
At Shintoku farm in Hokkaido, they grow cows, pigs, vegetables with utilizing bacterium and produce various types of milk products as well as running the cafe (soft cream and cakes are so yummy!) which is a popular spot for the local people and tourists. Their cheese got the best prize in the World contest for the mountain cheese! The project has been revived this year since 2019.
*Outcome of this project: So many vols. have joined this community and greatly contributed both physically and mentally. There is even a case to marry one of the community members:) Please see the long term goal of this project as Local SDGs at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/n0-68540773 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Learn about organic farming, taking care of animals such as cows, chickens. Learn a group work with various types of people. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Shintoku Farm website=https://www.kyodogakusha.org/ (only in Japanese)

Requirements

Only female! Motivation letter is needed. Interest and motivation to work and live in this type of community. Respect to their life. Some levels of Japanese speaking skills as well as high motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of agriculture or construction can be useful! Language - English and Japanese. Not many members can speak basic English (while the leader of the farm can speak very fluently!), so you will communicate with them in mixing simple English and Japanese.

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Maki (NICE-25L-MK07)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   15/06/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Social
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 742 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 36000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 7 hours to the project by train and bus. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival (in Yokohama for MK07-11, 16-18, 21 and Osaka for MK01-06, 12-15, 19, 20) and Evaluation Seminars (in Yokohama for MK01, 03, 05, 08, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19 and Osaka for MK02, 04, 06, 07, 09, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21), so firstly should arrive at/ leave NRT or HND if the seminar is in Yokohama and KIX if it is in Osaka, by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave there after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers mainly work for organic agriculture (cultivation, seeding, weeding, harvesting, taking care of goats, cows and chicken, making their feeds) and also carrying the things from the town to Maki, renovating the houses and trails on the way, constructing a hut, helping the house works especially cooking, etc. It's important and necessary to actively join the daily meeting and actively share the collective life. Be ready to work for quite a long time (05:30-18:00 with some brakes) and hard. It'd be surely good exercise to make your body more healthy!

Accomodation and food

Volunteers will live in the main house that is a very beautiful cultural heritage and equips the basic facilities such as water, electricity, kitchen, toilets and a bath room! Single room can be provided. They will have meals, meetings and social life with Kyodo Gakusha members. Meals will be cooked by volunteers together with the members by turns. Sleeping bag is not necessary. There is no wifi.

Location and leisure

Maki is located in the beautiful place near “Japanese Northern Alps”, at about 900 meters asl. and there is something remained here that most of Japanese areas have lost in modernization. Other activities - Exchange program, Excursion on a free day (possibly to Hakuba, a famous tourism spot), etc.

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 2000 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Maki and Tateya and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
Maki is located in a very isolated area (not accessible for cars and we have to walk 4 km in the mountains!), so it once became an abandon village in 1970s and then, was revived by Kyodo Gakusha. Over 10 people incl. 2 families were living till several years ago, but less and less in these years (almost nobody in the winter), so vols. are needed even more!
*Outcome of this workcamp: In 2023, we had 4 short term workcamps and 1 LMTV project with 13 vols. who greatly contributed to their protecting the houses, farming and caring animals that was difficult to finish by the time they needed without volunteers! See the long-term goal of this project as Local SDGs made by the previous project leader at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/2019-ep3-188767935 (only in Japanese, sorry, but you can still enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Similar type of communities in each country and their networking Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama or Osaka. The popular documentary film for this place was broadcasted in 2015 at arayashiki-movie.jp/en/.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation) and high motivation and patience to keep hard, long and important work in the very isolated, natural place, to respect the way of the local host and to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. No special skills nor experiences are needed. Language - Japanese and English (a few of the local host can speak basic English)

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Maki (NICE-25L-MK08)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   27/07/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Social
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 866 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 54000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 7 hours to the project by train and bus. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival (in Yokohama for MK07-11, 16-18, 21 and Osaka for MK01-06, 12-15, 19, 20) and Evaluation Seminars (in Yokohama for MK01, 03, 05, 08, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19 and Osaka for MK02, 04, 06, 07, 09, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21), so firstly should arrive at/ leave NRT or HND if the seminar is in Yokohama and KIX if it is in Osaka, by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave there after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers mainly work for organic agriculture (cultivation, seeding, weeding, harvesting, taking care of goats, cows and chicken, making their feeds) and also carrying the things from the town to Maki, renovating the houses and trails on the way, constructing a hut, helping the house works especially cooking, etc. It's important and necessary to actively join the daily meeting and actively share the collective life. Be ready to work for quite a long time (05:30-18:00 with some brakes) and hard. It'd be surely good exercise to make your body more healthy!

Accomodation and food

Volunteers will live in the main house that is a very beautiful cultural heritage and equips the basic facilities such as water, electricity, kitchen, toilets and a bath room! Single room can be provided. They will have meals, meetings and social life with Kyodo Gakusha members. Meals will be cooked by volunteers together with the members by turns. Sleeping bag is not necessary. There is no wifi.

Location and leisure

Maki is located in the beautiful place near “Japanese Northern Alps”, at about 900 meters asl. and there is something remained here that most of Japanese areas have lost in modernization. Other activities - Exchange program, Excursion on a free day (possibly to Hakuba, a famous tourism spot), etc.

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 2000 here), a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who want to learn farming, who want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Japan incl. Maki and Tateya and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way.
Maki is located in a very isolated area (not accessible for cars and we have to walk 4 km in the mountains!), so it once became an abandon village in 1970s and then, was revived by Kyodo Gakusha. Over 10 people incl. 2 families were living till several years ago, but less and less in these years (almost nobody in the winter), so vols. are needed even more!
*Outcome of this workcamp: In 2023, we had 4 short term workcamps and 1 LMTV project with 13 vols. who greatly contributed to their protecting the houses, farming and caring animals that was difficult to finish by the time they needed without volunteers! See the long-term goal of this project as Local SDGs made by the previous project leader at https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/2019-ep3-188767935 (only in Japanese, sorry, but you can still enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Similar type of communities in each country and their networking Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama or Osaka. The popular documentary film for this place was broadcasted in 2015 at arayashiki-movie.jp/en/.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation) and high motivation and patience to keep hard, long and important work in the very isolated, natural place, to respect the way of the local host and to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. No special skills nor experiences are needed. Language - Japanese and English (a few of the local host can speak basic English)

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Tateya (NICE-25L-TT06)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   15/06/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Social
3
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 742 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 36000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
5
Still room for
1 Male + 2 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 7 hours to the project by train and bus. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival (in Yokohama for TT06-09, 13, 14 and Osaka for TT01-05, 10-12, 15) and Evaluation Seminars (in Yokohama for TT01, 03, 05, 07, 09, 10, 12, 14, 15 and Osaka for TT02, 04, 06, 08, 11, 13), so firstly should arrive at/ leave NRT or HND if the seminar is in Yokohama and KIX if it is in Osaka, by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave there after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will help their organic farm (harvesting/ threshing rice, planting vegetables, taking care of animals, etc.) and their house work especially cooking. Volunteers will also carry the things in the mountain to the Maki farm and harvest rice there. Be ready to work for quite a long time (05:30-18:00 with some brakes) and hard. It'd be surely good exercise to make your body more healthy!

Accomodation and food

Shared room in the building for the volunteers and a few members, 5 min. walk from the farm. Meals will be cooked by volunteers together with the community people by turns. Sleeping bag is not necessary. There is limited Wifi.

Location and leisure

Otari village is a small village located in the region of stunning natural beauty in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is beautiful village near “Japanese Northern Alps”. It takes 40-50 min. by foot from Minami-Otari, the nearest train station. Other activities - Exchange program, Excursion on a free day (possibly to Hakuba, a famous tourism spot), etc.

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 2015 here), a cooperative community where about people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who wants to learn farming, just want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Tokyo, Nagano and Hokkaido and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way with utilizing bacterium and charcoal. Tateya Farm has 40 members and NICE started LMTV projects here since 2014. NICE also organizes workcamps and LMTV projects in Maki and Shintoku farms of Kyodo Gakusha.
*Outcome of this workcamp: In 2023, 1 mid term volunteer for 2 months greatly contributed to harvest rice which was difficult to finish by the time they needed without volunteers! There was also nice exchange between Community people and vols. through Yoga and Mindfulness. Please see the presentation of the camp leader for the IVS contest in Japan https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/e4-54764427 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Similar type of communities in each country and their networking Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama or Osaka.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed. Volunteers need to have good level of speaking for the daily conversations of English or Japanese and and high motivation and patience to keep the hard, long and important work in the natural place, to respect the way of the local host and to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. No special skills nor experiences are needed. Language - English (Japanese is also welcomed!)

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Tateya (NICE-25L-TT07)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   27/07/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Agricultural
Environmental
Social
3
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 866 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 54000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
5
Still room for
1 Male + 2 Female
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 7 hours to the project by train and bus. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival (in Yokohama for TT06-09, 13, 14 and Osaka for TT01-05, 10-12, 15) and Evaluation Seminars (in Yokohama for TT01, 03, 05, 07, 09, 10, 12, 14, 15 and Osaka for TT02, 04, 06, 08, 11, 13), so firstly should arrive at/ leave NRT or HND if the seminar is in Yokohama and KIX if it is in Osaka, by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave there after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will help their organic farm (harvesting/ threshing rice, planting vegetables, taking care of animals, etc.) and their house work especially cooking. Volunteers will also carry the things in the mountain to the Maki farm and harvest rice there. Be ready to work for quite a long time (05:30-18:00 with some brakes) and hard. It'd be surely good exercise to make your body more healthy!

Accomodation and food

Shared room in the building for the volunteers and a few members, 5 min. walk from the farm. Meals will be cooked by volunteers together with the community people by turns. Sleeping bag is not necessary. There is limited Wifi.

Location and leisure

Otari village is a small village located in the region of stunning natural beauty in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is beautiful village near “Japanese Northern Alps”. It takes 40-50 min. by foot from Minami-Otari, the nearest train station. Other activities - Exchange program, Excursion on a free day (possibly to Hakuba, a famous tourism spot), etc.

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with Kyodo Gakusha (since 2015 here), a cooperative community where about people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who wants to learn farming, just want to live in the nature, etc. They have 5 communities in Tokyo, Nagano and Hokkaido and grow animals and vegetables in an ecological, organic way with utilizing bacterium and charcoal. Tateya Farm has 40 members and NICE started LMTV projects here since 2014. NICE also organizes workcamps and LMTV projects in Maki and Shintoku farms of Kyodo Gakusha.
*Outcome of this workcamp: In 2023, 1 mid term volunteer for 2 months greatly contributed to harvest rice which was difficult to finish by the time they needed without volunteers! There was also nice exchange between Community people and vols. through Yoga and Mindfulness. Please see the presentation of the camp leader for the IVS contest in Japan https://www.slideshare.net/nice-workcamp/e4-54764427 (only Japanese for the moment, but you can at least enjoy the pictures!)

Additional comments

Study theme - Similar type of communities in each country and their networking Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama or Osaka.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed. Volunteers need to have good level of speaking for the daily conversations of English or Japanese and and high motivation and patience to keep the hard, long and important work in the natural place, to respect the way of the local host and to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. No special skills nor experiences are needed. Language - English (Japanese is also welcomed!)

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Hakodate (NICE-25L-HK01)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   19/10/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
Agricultural
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1052 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 81000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
3
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Hakodate (HKD)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Hakodate for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. Volunteers usually fly from Tokyo to Hakodate. They need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will mainly 1) Support the life and the language of the foreign residents and students, 2) Do the agricultural work and also assist the families coming to the citizen farm run by HIF) and possibly 3) Search for the community challenges and the way to solve them as well as helping other projects of HIF, cleaning Onuma lake and assisting the local festivals.

Accomodation and food

The house rent for the volunteers. Volunteers will share the rooms and cook the meals by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available. No smoking.

Location and leisure

Hakodate city is one of the most popular tourist spots in Hokkaido and Japan with the romantic night view, morning market to taste the sea food, historical sites such as Goryokaku. It is also the economic capital of the southern part of Hokkaido while it is also having a serious depopulation issue. Other activities:One week off may be possible if the volunteers would like to enjoy going around Hokkaido (the period needs to be confirmed with the host).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with HIF=Hokkaido International Foundation (since 2022 here). HIF was founded in 1984 and has developed various types of projects such as 1) Children's cafeteria to support economically disadvantaged children, 2) Events and seminars to promote SDGs and international cooperation, 3) Citizen farm, etc. in addition to 4) the international exchange programs such as homestay. Thus, the director has hosted the international workcamps from 2004 to 2019 in Onuma to protect the lake and to activate the local community. Many of the foreigners living in Japan are having various types of difficulties (isolation, poor access to the information and service, etc.). We believe, the inclusive society makes not only them, but also everybody happier! And the agriculture in Japan is facing to the serious crisis of the lack of working power (average age of the farmers is 68!).
*Outcome of this project: 3 vols. joined the 6 months workcamp in 2022 that has greatly supported the family immigrated from Afghanistan.

Additional comments

Study theme: Various opportunities to see, exchange and learn:) Participation fee: 18,000 JPY (113 EUR by the rate on 2025 Feb. 14th) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months).Language: English and Japanese. Some staff of HIF can speak good English. Other: The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Website of HIF: https://www.hif.or.jp/.

Requirements

Strong motivation to work with the foreigners and in the farm. Respect to the local and international ways and cultures. Good level of English speaking skills as well as strong motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of teaching Japanese and agriculture can be useful!

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Hakodate (NICE-25L-HK02)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   27/07/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
Agricultural
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 866 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 54000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
3
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Access with disability
Yes
Nearest airport
Hakodate (HKD)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Hakodate for domestic and Sapporo (CTS) for international flights. Volunteers usually fly from Tokyo to Hakodate. They need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will mainly 1) Support the life and the language of the foreign residents and students, 2) Do the agricultural work and also assist the families coming to the citizen farm run by HIF) and possibly 3) Search for the community challenges and the way to solve them as well as helping other projects of HIF, cleaning Onuma lake and assisting the local festivals.

Accomodation and food

The house rent for the volunteers. Volunteers will share the rooms and cook the meals by turn (Vegetarian is possible if it's prepared by volunteer self). Wifi is available. No smoking.

Location and leisure

Hakodate city is one of the most popular tourist spots in Hokkaido and Japan with the romantic night view, morning market to taste the sea food, historical sites such as Goryokaku. It is also the economic capital of the southern part of Hokkaido while it is also having a serious depopulation issue. Other activities:One week off may be possible if the volunteers would like to enjoy going around Hokkaido (the period needs to be confirmed with the host).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), organized together with HIF=Hokkaido International Foundation (since 2022 here). HIF was founded in 1984 and has developed various types of projects such as 1) Children's cafeteria to support economically disadvantaged children, 2) Events and seminars to promote SDGs and international cooperation, 3) Citizen farm, etc. in addition to 4) the international exchange programs such as homestay. Thus, the director has hosted the international workcamps from 2004 to 2019 in Onuma to protect the lake and to activate the local community. Many of the foreigners living in Japan are having various types of difficulties (isolation, poor access to the information and service, etc.). We believe, the inclusive society makes not only them, but also everybody happier! And the agriculture in Japan is facing to the serious crisis of the lack of working power (average age of the farmers is 68!).
*Outcome of this project: 3 vols. joined the 6 months workcamp in 2022 that has greatly supported the family immigrated from Afghanistan.

Additional comments

Study theme: Various opportunities to see, exchange and learn:) Participation fee: 18,000 JPY (113 EUR by the rate on 2025 Feb. 14th) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months).Language: English and Japanese. Some staff of HIF can speak good English. Other: The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. Website of HIF: https://www.hif.or.jp/.

Requirements

Strong motivation to work with the foreigners and in the farm. Respect to the local and international ways and cultures. Good level of English speaking skills as well as strong motivation to learn and speak Japanese language is needed. Skills of teaching Japanese and agriculture can be useful!

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Aizu Wakamatsu (NICE-25L-AI05)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   27/07/2025

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Social
Educational
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 866 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 54000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
2
Still room for
2
Languages
Japanese
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Tokyo (NRT)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is Tokyo (NRT or HND) from which it takes 5 hours by train and bus to the meeting point in Fukushima pref. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

  1. Supporting children's activities at affiliated kindergartens. 2) Learning support and cooking assistance at the Kodomo shokudo(The place where kids can eat for free or at a low cost with other people.). Specifically, homework and subject learning is provided to about 15 primary and junior high school students. They also assist in cooking dinner together with the staff. 3) Supporting for nature activities for kids(playing outside, cooking meals, preparing activities, etc.). Especially on weekends and during long holidays.

Accomodation and food

Shared rooms in accommodation owned by the organization. It is different place with activity place. Men and women separated room. Cooking by yourself. Staffs also stay at the facility. No wifi in the accommodation (but there is wifi in activity place).

Location and leisure

Aizu Wakamatsu city is called Samurai city. It is located in the eastern part of the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture. It is the central city of Aizu region, surrounded by rich nature, including Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro and blessed with natural scenery. The organization is located in an area with an atmosphere of Taisho era Romanticism. Winter season (Dec.-Mar.) is quite cold, so vols. need to bring warm cloths. Other activities - Join the local events, many opportunities to learn the local wisdom, etc. Sightseeing, short trip (hot springs, castle, famous places here).

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDGs 1 (no poverty) and SDGs 4 (Quality Education), organized together with a local NPO, Terakoya Hojosha since 2008 that aims to create a diverse learning environment that places children at the center and aims to promote children's participation in society. Their mission is to support 'Children's participation in society' and create a happy future for children. A characteristic of the learning at Terakoya Hojosya is that it attends to children's interests. The aim to create a happy future with children, each and every one of whom is important. In their all projects, it is importance on approving and affirming children and fostering a sense of self-affirmation, which is the children's energy, through their connections with others.

Additional comments

Study theme - Volunteers will get knowledge of alternative school, children's social participation, child poverty in Japan. Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama.

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed! Volunteers need to have some Japanese speaking skill (manage to have basic daily conversation), respect to the local culture and way of the local organization, positive attitude to communicate with children, being Interested alternative school, children's social patriation and child poverty, high motivation to work hard, open mind, cooperation with others. Language - Japanese

Sustainable Development Goals

Quality Education Reduced Inequalities
Japan Japan: Yoichi (NICE-25L-YC07)

Dates

03/05/2025   -   11/01/2026

Feedback from 72 volunteers

Tags

Environmental
Manual Work
2
Place(s)
left
full for < 18

Fee

USD 1237 i Fee is paid in two installments:

USD 495 to be paid now.
JPY 108000 is to be paid after acceptance.

Note: Total fee can vary depending on bank rates.
Details
Add to backpack
Close

Details on the project

Age
18 - 99
Max number of volunteers
1
Still room for
2
Languages
English
Vegetarian food
Yes
Nearest airport
Chitose (CTS)
Nearest bus/train station
The nearest airport is New Chitose (CTS) in Hokkaido from which it takes 2 hours to the project by train and bus. However, volunteers need to join On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama, so firstly should arrive at Tokyo airport (NRT or HND) by 08:00 on the starting day and can leave Tokyo airport after 18:00 on the ending day.
Map

Work

Volunteers will work for around 36 hours a week (08:00-11:00/ 13:30-16:30) with one day off mainly to 1) do organic farming such as growing seedlings, seeding, weeding, thinning, harvesting, etc. or clear the snow in the winter, 2) help the vineyard and food production of wine, vegetables and fruits, 3) help the farm nearby, 4) Help to prepare and run the local events and promote HEPP through SNS, 5) maintain the facilities to make comfortable environment for the visitors including maintenance of eco toilets and weeding, 5) cook the meals for the visitors and staff, etc.

Accomodation and food

Shared room in the main house or a container house (male and female are separated). Cooking with the local and members by turn, vegetarian food is possible. There is limited wifi.

Location and leisure

Located next to the city of Otaru, Yoichi is a place where one can fully enjoy Hokkaido tourism, from history and nature tourism to fruit fields and fresh seafood. There is the famous Nikka Whiskey factory. Other activities - Joining the local festivals, exchange with local people, short trip (hot springs, famous places)

Project hosted by

This project is actively working for SDG2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGS15 (Life on Land), organized together with Hokkaido Eco-village Promotion Project (HEPP) since 2015. They started to promote sustainability of our lifestyle and community, to create better environmental and social model for next generation in Hokkaido since 2012. They want to produce necessities that are needed for our daily life (foods, energy, etc.) by themselves as much as they can, and want to share them to the local area. They provide various chances to learn comprehensive skill and knowledge about sustainable development by organizing training programs and events for the local adults and kids. They also aim at connecting urban area and rural area, producers and consumers and to contribute local revitalization. They restarted to welcome the international volunteers from 2022 summer and 2 vols. from UK did nice job for one month!
*Outcome of this project: In 2024, 6 vols. from UK greatly contributed to their farming and other activities as well as the mental empowerment of the host!

Additional comments

Study theme - Theory and various practices of the sustainable living style Participation fee - 18,000 JPY (108 EUR by the rate on 2024 Nov. 3rd) per month till the 3rd month and 9,000 JPY per month from the 4th month of NICE Volunteers fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation and coordination such as the transportation of the camp leaders while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free. Odd days are counted as one month (e.g., 170 days are counted as 6 months). Other - The first and last 2 days are On Arrival and Evaluation Seminars in Yokohama. HEPP website=http://ecovillage.greenwebs.net/english.html

Requirements

Motivation letter is needed. Good level of speaking for the daily conversations of English or Japanese is needed. Skills of driving a car (valid in Japan), maintenance of the agricultural machines, experience of work in the tourism/ hotels are not needed, but useful! Having work experience is desirable. Strong physical health, open mind to actively exchange with others, good cooking skills, PC skills and loving team work/ collective life are also welcomed! Language - English. The local host can speak English fluently. Japanese is also welcomed!

Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger Life on Land