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Omihachiman DIY Renovation Project – A Cross-Cultural Restoration
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.
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.
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
Requirements
Intermediate English or Beginner Japanese
Only hosts solo volunteers (doesn’t accept couples or partners)
What's not included
Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa
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