Omihachiman DIY Renovation Project – A Cross-Cultural Restoration

5.0

(12 reviews)12

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The experience

Welcome! This is a hands-on renovation project taking place in Omihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, where Japanese and international participants work together to transform a former cat café on the town’s main street into a vibrant, shared living space.

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What you offer

30 hours of help per week

Painting & Decorating: Help with painting or decorating the property facilities.

Building & Repairing: Help with a wide range of repairs or building.

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What you get

2 days off per week

Private Room: You will have a bed in a private room. In other words, a room just for you.

Breakfast: You are entitled to a free breakfast, every day of your stay.

Lunch: You are entitled to a free lunch, every day of your stay.

Dinner: You are entitled to a free dinner, every day of your stay.

Free Laundry: You can use our laundry room freely.

Free Tours: We’ll take you on tours and rides around town. For free!

Free Events: Get free entrance for the best events in town.

Bikes at your disposal: You can use our bikes any time you want.

Language lessons: Take free language classes at our place.

Fast Internet Access: High-speed internet for you to work remotely

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Requirements

Intermediate English or Beginner Japanese

Only hosts solo volunteers (doesn’t accept couples or partners)

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What's not included

Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa

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Program Details

Welcome! This is a hands-on renovation project taking place in Omihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, where Japanese and international participants work together to transform a former cat café on the town’s main street into a vibrant, shared living space.

Project Highlights:

Location: Omihachiman, Shiga – a historic canal town known for its scenic streets, local breweries, and traditional craftsmanship

Building: townhouse, formerly used as a cat café

Main Activities: DIY renovation (painting, woodworking, plastering, gardening, interior design)

Goals: Cross-cultural exchange, skill-sharing, and revitalization of the local community

Who Can Join: Open to both Japanese and international participants interested in architecture, community building, or cultural exchange — experience needed

Cultural Experiences Include:

Community dinners and food parties (okonomiyaki, takoyaki, hot pot)

Cultural exchange events with locals

Town walks, hikes, and occasional cooking workshops