Help with everyday work at Buddhist temple lodging

Italy

5

I have no words to describe this wonderful experience. I immediately felt at home thanks to the friendly Japanese staff. I learned so much about Japanese and Buddhist culture and took part in many amazing activities, including a two-day hike on Mount Shichimen with an overnight stay in a the host, kimono experience, calligraphy, and meditation. Volunteers can also use e-bikes, making it easy to explore the area (and even go out for a cappuccino ☺️). A special mention goes to Junko-san, an incredibly kind and wonderful person. I hope to return to this beautiful corner of paradise ❤️

3 days ago

Brazil

5

I strongly recommend kakurimbo, i felt very welcomed, you have some private space as youll be living apart from the host, will get an eBike for you to come and go, the food is great, the staff is friendly, every now and then they provide something for everyone to socialize together and increase the community atmosphere. Apply with a mindset of creating purpose because you will be given back proportionately. They also encourage you to learn japonese, so if you're looking for it this can be a plus. And the most important thing, its a legit cultural experience. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!! 🤍

14 days ago

United Kingdom

5

The host was good to me :) It is a place to become part of a family. Three communal meals, working side by side and having so much time in the day to explore together makes for a beautifully social experience. Compound this with the relative seclusion of Minobu and you'll end up forming bonds with everybody there. Having or being willing to learn some Japanese will go a long way as it opens the door to friendships in the community and with local staff. I was sorry to leave early but would happily have my time again.

28 days ago

Chris replied

Thank you for coming Harry! We are glad you were able to join us even though your time was cut short. Thank you and good luck with everything!

Netherlands

5

The host was like second home for me. The staff is super friendly and Junko-san and her family are super welcoming. The work can be high pace sometimes, but I found it to be quite satisfying. Even more so if you have a nice world packers group, it's one of the best times I've had. I've made friends I want to stay in contact with, so I highly recommend!

about 2 months ago

Junko replied

Thank you Ids! You are a good volunteer so thank you for the hard work! Please come again sometime.

United States

5

My time at the host was so wonderful. Truly a once in a lifetime experience. Delicious meals cooked by the lovely Japanese staff, amazing cultural experiences, many opportunities to connect with nature and spirituality if you choose. Junko-san is dedicated to helping the small town of Minobu thrive and promoting foreigners to learn about local agriculture and customs. I was proud to be a part of such great work! Be prepared to work hard and the volunteer dorms are a work in progress but can be quite cozy.

about 2 months ago

Junko replied

Thank you Baylee for coming! We are glad you were able to enjoy some tours while you were here!

Italy

5

Really great experience. You can immerse yourself in a quiet japan, far from cities' caos. 100% recommended

2 months ago

Italy

5

Describing such a unique and unrepeatable experience is truly challenging, and putting into words how grateful I feel to Junko-san and the entire staff of the host is anything but easy. They gave me the opportunity to live a month I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Their kindness, courtesy, and helpfulness will forever remain unforgettable memories in my heart. I can't help but recommend this experience to anyone who wishes to meet such wonderful people and fall in love with an hidden corner of Japan, a magical place where one can reconnect with nature and with others.

4 months ago

Junko replied

Thank you Gabriele! We are glad you had a great experience. You are welcome back anytime. You are a very kind person and we enjoyed your company. Good luck with your studies!

United Kingdom

5

My time at the host was amazing! All of the staff and volunteers were so lovely and I'm going to miss everyone there! The work was simple, cleaning the baths, toilets and bedrooms mostly. They try to group your days off together so you can explore more of Japan on your breaks. Breakfast and Lunch was included but you get dinner if you help out with the washing up in the evening. This was my first time volunteering and I'm so glad I picked here, I got to experience so many cool things all thanks to them! I will definitely be coming back! ❤️ Thank you so much Junko and the host family! 🥰

5 months ago

Junko replied

Thank you Eliza for being so kind! We are glad you were able to join your time with us and experience a few activities we had going on. Thank you for your work!

United Kingdom

5

I'd always wanted to experience a Shukubo and was lucky enough to be able to live and work in one for a month. I got to immerse myself in the beautiful nature in the area, learn about Nichiren Buddhism, shukubo and Japanese culture. Both the volunteers and Japanese staff work well together in one big team. I met so many lovely people, it was sad to say goodbye. It was truly a unique and unforgettable experience!

6 months ago

Junko replied

Thank you Michelle! You were a great help. You were a volunteer that we could rely on for many tasks. We hope you will come visit again!

Mexico

5

I had a wonderful time during my stay. We formed a great family, I met people from many countries. The town is wonderful, surrounded by forests, nature, and Buddhist temples. The sound of bells and prayers is very pleasant and calming, far from the hustle and bustle of big cities. I'm going to miss my mates, the Japanese staff and my lovely Junko!

6 months ago

Junko replied

色々お世話になりました。最後の日に会えなくてごめんなさい。
また、お目にかかれるのを楽しみにしています。

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