Help with everyday work at Buddhist temple lodging

Estados Unidos

4

Overall, I had a wonderful stay in Minobusan. The work was straightforward & the hours were honored. I loved working/bonding with a large group of fellow traveler-volunteers. Junko-san is lovely and is clearly an ambassador for the community; her ambition is inspiring! Though it became apparent that he meant well, the volunteer coordinator did the bare minimum to orient and/or guide me throughout the experience. At times, he was difficult to work with; he seemed to have little regard for his attitude/tone of voice. With the right mindset, though, the experience is still happy/rewarding.

2 meses atrás

Brasil

4

I had a good experience at the host. It's great that they usually have a lot of volunteers at the same time, that really makes all the difference. It's important to be open-minded about accommodation, as you can have some unusual arrangements. Junko-san is very knowledgeable and very kind when we get to meet, usually during meal times. And Guchi-san was a real blessing, always kind, patient, and in a good mood. The job was cleaning, just like the ad states. Communication can be tough, but come with an open heart and enjoy!

3 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

Thank you Marina! The time was short but we were happy to have hosted you. See you again sometime!

Dinamarca

4

I had a lovely stay at the host for one month. The staff were very friendly and the tasks were overall easy and well explained. The location is so beautiful and peaceful, I needed a mental reset and this place delivered that. Nestled between mountains and ancient temples you will find inner peace!! Thank you so much junko san and the rest of the host team for welcoming and taking care of me! Arigatou gozaimasu 🙏🙏

3 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

Thank you Mariko! We really enjoyed having you. Good luck with everything.

Espanha

3

A beautiful place with powerful energy, but the experience wasn't easy. The tasks weren't well organized and that made the work harder than expected. As a deaf person, I sometimes felt left out, not intentionally, but I wasn't always included or valued equally. Still, I gave my best with a smile. I learned to set boundaries, to grow through discomfort, and I met some kind people along the way. Thanks for the lessons. Not perfect, but meaningful.

7 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

いつも明るく手伝ってくれて、ありがとう。障害があると、保険に入れないから、富士山のツアーには、連れて行ってあげられなくてごめんね。

Estados Unidos

3

I had a mixed experience. I wouldn't recommend it for first time volunteers, as communication is not great and the hours (especially during busy season) are quite long. However, I did have a lovely time meeting all the volunteers and staff (including cafe staff!). Volunteers should be prepared to be very flexible with the work/schedule and to possibly experience some harsh feedback. Thank you to all who showed your kindness and patience! If you're looking for a spot to work hard, enjoy the mountains, eat good food, and get to know some good people, this is still an okay option.

8 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

色々ありがとうございました。その時その時のメンバーで、色々なメンバーでグループができてしまったり、英語が不得意な私たちにとっては、まとめられませんでした。人間関係は、鏡です。あなたが感じたことは私たちも感じているのかもしれませんね。

Holanda

4

The host is a beautiful location surrounded by nature. I loved exploring the area—biking to a lake with Mount Fuji views, hiking, visiting temples, shrines, and enjoying the cherry blossoms. The family is welcoming, and there are great opportunities to experience Japanese culture, especially outside sakura season. However, during busy periods, expect longer work hours (6 days a week, 5+ hours per day). Access to the host's onsen is sadly limited to Japanese staff. Some cultural differences can be felt, so flexibility is important. Experience in hospitality is highly recommended.

9 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

忙しい時期で、多くのワーカーさんがいたので、大変でしたね。
それぞれがそれぞれの感情や文化の違いを主張だけするのではなく、分かちあってくれたらいいと思っていました。いつも通訳に協力してくれてありがとう。相談に乗ってくれてありがとう。

Reino Unido

1

Awful experience: agreed one month, left after 10 days. Wordcount too short to go into detail, so DM if want more info! -Because of peak holiday season (sakura), working days 6/week, and hours up to 6/day; unlike stated on WP, this time was not made up later on -Bad atmosphere: endless rules, constant arguments, many volunteers left early -No proper bedding, just old duvet covers -Nasty attitude from some staff i.e.mean comments made in Japanese about foreign volunteer in front of them, knowing they wouldn't understand Minobu is beautiful, and some ppl were kind, but not worth it IMO

9 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

忙しい時期だという事は、伝えて参加していただいたはずです。忙しい時期だから、多くのボランティアが滞在していました。多彩な文化や習慣、感情の起伏も様々。時には挨拶もしない、不機嫌、ヘッドホンしながら仕事していては、話しかけることもできない。日本文化に参加したいと言いながら、ボランティア同士で英語でしか話さない。日本人は複雑な感情をこらえるのに精一杯でした。
世界中には、あなたに合うところも、合わないところもあると思います。今、何度も戻ってきて働いてくれている子達で毎晩ゲームしたり、英語と日本語のエクスチェンジして楽しく過ごしています。
忙しい時期にご苦労様でした。ありがとう。

Brasil

4

The host is a good place for stay and immersing in the Buddhist mountains area. The Japanese Staff are amazing I'm so thankful for ALL them very respectful and kind at ALL :) The food is amazing & Delicious :) P.s: pay attention in all reviews & if you want more information hit me up :) as a 9years WP traveller!

12 meses atrás

Junko respondeu

色々ありがとうございました。もっと話したいことがあったけど、忙しい時期であまり話せませんでした。残念。

França

5

Mon volontariat à Minobu à été au delà de mes espérances. Pour preuve j'ai rallongé mon séjour afin de pouvoir rester plus longtemps. J'ai rencontré des gens fantastiques avec qui c'était plaisant de partager le quotidien. Le staff japonais était très accueillant et m'a appris et partagé plein de choses qui m'ont sans nul doutes permis de profiter encore plus de mon voyage au Japon, alors un grand merci à eux. Beaucoup sont devenus des amis que j'espère revoir un jour. Merci à Junko et Zeko de m'avoir accueilli chez eux et permis d'expérimenter la vie japonaise. À très bientôt

1 ano atrás

Estados Unidos

5

I enjoyed my month at the host! Work hours were generally respected, though extra help was sometimes requested—it was up to you to decide whether to pitch in. The staff was kind, though instructions relied on volunteers passing down info, which could be unclear at times. Being included in local events and social media outreach added to the experience. Overall, Minobu was a peaceful escape from the city and offered great insight into what makes Japan special!

1 ano atrás

Aplique agora