Volunteer Programs in Japan

Prepare for Volunteering

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.

• 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.
• Connect your hobbies to Japanese culture while you're there. Love food? Explore markets, restaurants, and bakeries! Into sports? Catch a Sumo match or seasonal event. There's a connection for everyone!
• What do you want to carry from your volunteering experience? Consider personal or professional relationships, specific work experiences, or something that defines you. Brainstorm a few ideas to focus on 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. Even outside formal settings, your teamwork skills matter. Others rely on your physical, mental, or emotional contributions. Time management and a focus on the bigger goal are crucial.
• All sorts of relationships. Volunteering creates unique connections, as everyone shares the common goal of building a stronger, sustainable future. The bonds formed among peers, community members, and leaders are truly unforgettable.
• Cultural experiences. Volunteering creates unique connections, as everyone shares the common goal of building a stronger, sustainable future. The bonds formed among peers, community members, and leaders are truly unforgettable.

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's and cheaper than the USA, so budget accordingly. Familiarize yourself with your destination to avoid overspending or getting lost.
• 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.

Choose a Location

When choosing what area of Japan to volunteer in, there are a few things to consider. If you don’t know what you want to aid in or where you’d prefer to be, check out these popular options.

Tokyo

Is the capital and financial hub of the country—making for an exciting and busy city full of volunteering opportunities. Programs range from animal welfare programs to counseling and community work. It’s a great place to pick because of its central location within Japan, making it easier to travel within the borders, especially if you’d like to make a day trip to Mt. Fuji.

Kyoto

Renowned for its historical significance and stunning temples, Kyoto serves as the cultural heart of Japan. The city offers a chance to engage with local communities, support initiatives focused on sustainability and cultural preservation, immerse yourself in traditional Japanese customs, and explore its blend of historic sites and modern amenities. Don't miss trying Yudofu, a simple yet delightful dish made from soft tofu, which reflects the city's culinary heritage.

Fukuoka

For those looking to get off the tourist track and see a different side of Japan, you may also want to volunteer in Fukuoka! Just north of Nagasaki, it’s on the southern tip of Japan and has an incredible mix of city, nature, and incredible beaches. It’s possible to assist in disaster recovery efforts, engage with elderly care programs, and participate in cultural preservation projects.

Choose a Cause

Volunteering abroad in Japan will be an unforgettable experience regardless of the specific work you do. Here are three causes to consider:

Arts

Japan's rich cultural heritage includes ancient art forms like calligraphy, traditional painting, and ceramics. Volunteering in the arts allows you to help maintain and uphold these unique pieces, ensuring that Japan's artistic traditions are preserved and shared for future generations.

Environmental Conservation

Japan is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability. Volunteering in environmental conservation can involve activities such as maintaining natural parks, conducting wildlife research, and promoting recycling initiatives, helping to preserve Japan's beautiful landscapes and biodiversity.

Elderly Care

With a rapidly aging population, Japan has a high demand for elderly care. Volunteering in this field offers the chance to provide companionship and support to senior citizens, enhancing their quality of life and gaining a deep understanding of the respectful and considerate approach to elder care in Japanese culture.

Tips and Advice

If you think about it, the process of volunteering in Japan doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to Japan in no time.

1. Get matched

Looking forward to finding volunteer programs in Japan? Let our Online Advisor match you with volunteer opportunities in real time and email them to you.

2. Choose a program

If you’re looking to bookmark or compare the recommended programs sent to you, sign up for or log in to a MyGoAbroad account to do all of that and more.

3. Choose how long to stay

Figuring out how long to volunteer can look incredibly different from volunteer to volunteer! Choose something that will make the most of your time to best help your cause.

• 1-12 weeks. For anyone looking to volunteer during a brief period of free time or flexible time. Programs are flexible and accept many different needs. This option works well for anyone curious to gain some experience in volunteering abroad.
• 3-12 months. A step above, this timeframe is great to do if you’d like to commit some time to contributing to a community's growth while learning from a different culture. It can pair well with an academic semester, too (just check with your school for more specifics).
• 1 year+. This option is great for people who are on a gap year, sabbatical, or even retired! Committing to a cause and community provides a brief yet intimate look into a culture that ranks as one of the oldest in the world.

4. Funding & scholarships

If you’d like, fill out our scholarship and deals application if you need financial support or are curious to see what’s available.

5. Apply

After you’ve applied to some exciting volunteer options, a program coordinator will contact you with more information.

6. Get your essentials

Once all of that is finished, and you’ve been accepted to a program, it’s time to apply for your passport and visa, book your flight, and buy travel insurance.