Japanese wooden boatbuilding/cultural exchange in Seto Inland Sea

France

5

I spend only few days with Kagiyama-san, but it was full of discoveries. The work was repairing tools for his project of boatbuilding, and I also helped with his mobile the host. Work was very funny and not time-wasting, and the host helped me to discover local culture and meet locals. Additionally, Kagiyama-san is very kind and comprehensive, and I will miss his meals! I recommend this experience at 100%!

4 months ago

Hiroshi replied

Hi Matteo, I miss that you say "délicieux" after every meal:) Make sure to let me know when you come back around here!

Italy

5

I spent a week with Hiroshi helping him with his Wasen construction project. The work was mostly cleaning the rust off the planes that he will use for Wasen building, and I was also lucky enough to help out with his mobile the host. The work is fair and rewarding. As for accommodation, you will stay in Hiroshi's recently renovated traditional japanese house which is right by the sea. You will eat delicious home cooked meals, sleep in a very cosy and comfortable room, be immersed in the host's culture, and spend time with wonderful Hiroshi. I am super grateful for this experience.

5 months ago

Poland

5

I truly enjoyed the few days I got to spend at Hiroshisan's. I got to learn a little about the local community, traditions and of course boatbuilding. Hiroshisan is an excellent host and I felt very comfortable during my stay. He is a very caring and open person. The communication was very smooth and I really enjoyed the conversations we had! I also really appreciate that he cooked vegetarian meals for me which were very delicious! My only job was to clean woodworking tools which was quite enjoyable actually. Overall I honestly can't think of any downsides. It was truly perfect! Thank you!

5 months ago

Hiroshi replied

Oops I just found out your review. How nice your compliments are:)

Canada

4

I volunteered for around two weeks. The room was spacious and clean. Hiroshi-san was strict and communication was rocky in the beginning, but we sorted it out and I got to do: dishes, cleaning and vacuuming, pulling weeds, photography/videography for the mobile the host. I learned about history facts, culture, and etiquette. While I didn't get to see wasen, I got to learn more about photography and try different equipments during my time here. The house is right by Seto inland sea and the market is 20 min by foot. Thank you for your hospitality and delicious food!

26 days ago

Canada

4

Hiroshi-san was a nice host. We had good conversations and he was happy to talk about the local crafts, culture, and his various projects! He was not building boats during my visit, so my duties were miscellaneous tasks around his house: pulling weeds, vacuuming, cleaning tools. I helped him set up and take down his mobile the host one night. Overall it was a good experience, but if you are wanting to go to participate in Wasen building, then make sure to ask if he will be building during your stay.

about 2 months ago

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