Volunteer Programs in Japan

Set goals

To make the most out of your time as a volunteer in Japan, it’s not a bad idea to set some goals! Here are a few basics anyone can benefit from.

• While volunteering, take the time to take note of what area drives you most. Is it what you expected or did something else surprise you? How can you bring that to your personal and professional life?
• Figure out what skill or skills you’d like to refine, learn, or grow while in Japan. Push yourself in those areas a little farther.
• Make a connection between a personal hobby and a cultural element of Japan to explore while there. Love food? Check out the markets, restaurants, and bakeries! Into sports? Book a date to go see a Sumo match or other seasonal athletic event. More likely than not, there’s a connection for everyone to make.
• What do you want to intentionally carry beyond your time volunteering? Personal or professional relationships, specific work experiences, something even more integral to who you are? Brainstorm one or a few ideas to be cognizant of while abroad.

Understand the benefits

Volunteering in Japan comes with many benefits to both the community you join and yourself. A few any volunteer can walk away with are:

• Work experience and development. Although it's out of the ordinary confines of an academic or professional workspace, you’ll still be utilizing all those skills. As a team member, people will rely on you to show up, and constructively contribute either physically, mentally, or emotionally (sometimes all three!). Time management and adhering to the larger goal all come along with the territory, too.
• All sorts of relationships. Meeting people while volunteering can be like nothing else—the common goal of everyone is to build something for a sustainably stronger tomorrow. From peers to the local community members and volunteers to the leaders running the show, they’re unforgettable bonds.
• Personal Growth. Being abroad and somewhere new or relatively unfamiliar challenges you immediately, and not in a bad way! The experience can broaden your perspective through many varied situations of any kind and make you more resilient.
• Cultural experiences. The willingness to travel and visit new places with different cultures also opens you up to new cultures and ways of life different from your own. Learning and participating in new cultural experiences can help you foster a deeper relationship with the world.

Things to know

Wherever you decide to volunteer in Japan, you should know, think about, or be aware of:

• Visa and paper requirements - Make sure to research and obtain the necessary visas, as requirements vary by country. Check with your program or embassy for any additional paperwork you might need.
• Language skills - Learning basic Japanese will help you communicate better and show respect to locals. Even a few phrases can make navigating and connecting with people easier.
• Cost and logistics - Japan’s cost of living is comparable to Portugal and cheaper than the USA, so budget accordingly. Familiarize yourself with your destination to avoid overspending or getting lost.
• Health and safety - Get the required vaccinations and understand local health protocols. Keep copies of important documents and let someone know your travel plans for added security.
• Cultural and social etiquette - Bowing is the traditional way to greet others, and it’s important to remove your shoes when entering homes. Carrying a fresh pair of socks is a good idea in case house slippers aren’t provided.