Work exchange and Volunteer opportunities in Japan

How can I volunteer in Japan?

Japan is often expensive for tourists, so volunteering is a great alternative to save money while traveling there. Depending on what you like to do, you can help take care of the elderly or children, teach languages, cleaning, cooking and other activities. The important thing is to find something that you’re passionate about! The activities also depend on where you decide to go. You can explore modern Tokyo, or enjoy nature in Kyoto, Okinawa, the warm waters of Beppu and more.

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Why should I volunteer in Japan?

Japan is a modern nation, with many unique cultural aspects. Even with a thriving economy and less need for volunteers than its neighboring Asian countries, you can still find volunteer opportunities in Japan. It’s a good idea to teach English as a volunteer in Japan, since there’s a high demand for international teachers. It’s possible to find volunteer opportunities in Tokyo, Osaka and other big cities in Japan, as well as rural areas. Another good reason to go is that Japan is a very safe travel destination!

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What to expect from a volunteer work experience in Japan?

The kind of social work you can develop there will vary depending on the region. In general, japanese people are known to be shy, but if you embrace their culture and are open to collaborating and exchanging knowledge, they become very receptive. Keep your mind open, as travel is about learning and finding your best self! It’s very important that you communicate clearly with your host and fellow travelers and use our inbox to get all your questions answered before you travel. You can also chat with anyone who has traveled to Japan through Worldpackers, and ask for tips from our experts.

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What to see when doing tourism in Japan?

Japan is a place where ancient traditions meet modern life in high-tech metropolis like Tokyo. A visit to the "Land of the Rising Sun" will allure even the most experienced traveler. Japan has 20 World Heritage Sites, including Himeji Castle, Ancient Kyoto and Nara. Still in Kyoto, you can see wildlife at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama or relax at Kinkaku-ji Temple. Other popular tourist attractions include Hiroshima and Mount Fuji.

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Find volunteer opportunities in Okinawa, an archipelago of 169 islands, with 9 registered UNESCO World Heritage sites! In addition to a rich history, like all of Japan, Okinawa is also a great beach destination with fine sand and an unforgettable light blue sea. Tokyo is the world’s most populous metropolitan area and probably unlike anything you've ever seen. The clichés are true: always a lot of people on the lively streets, lights flashing everywhere, tall buildings, the busiest intersections, and a commitment to the development of a very futuristic city but with respect for Japan’s glorious past. Being a volunteer in Tokyo, Japan is the experience of a lifetime!

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Why travel to Tokyo?

Japan’s culture is truly timeless and Tokyo is a great city to explore all facets from ancient to contemporary japanese culture. The Imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple will take you back to imperial times. The Yasukuni Shrine was built in memory of those who fought for Japan in wars. And the Tokyo Dome leisure complex brings you back to Japan’s modern present. World-famous Cherry Blossoms can be seen from several spots in the city. A good tip is Sumida Park, which is not as crowded as Ueno Park or Shinjuku Gyoen. Also, Koishikawa Botanical Garden and Koishikawa Korakuen are calm spaces to rest after a day of exploring.  

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How can I use Worldpackers to visit Japan?

Visiting Japan can be quite expensive. You can use Worldpackers to save some money by exchanging work for accommodation in Tokyo, Hokkaido, Osaka and many other places included in our host list. Make a profile and check them out! Can you picture yourself at Akihabara getting to know the otaku culture? Or maybe getting out Shibuya Station, where you will see one of Tokyo's most colourful and busy crossings, packed with restaurants and nightclubs! You can explore Japan applying for the positions you like once you become a Worldpackers member, for only $49 a year. 

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Volunteer opportunities in Japan with Worldpackers

Want to find work exchange opportunities in Japan? With Worldpackers it gets easy! Check out our host list to see what the Japanese hosts have to offer. When filling out your profile, put the skills you master and those you want to learn. Your trip will become much cheaper because the hosts offer lodging in exchange for a few hours of volunteer work a day, as well as meals and other benefits. Become a member so you can apply for all the work exchange positions you wish and travel all year long paying only once.

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