Japan Volunteer Quests

What makes a United Planet Short-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100% cultural immersion experiences. United Planet Quest programs run year-round and are available to individuals and groups of all ages, skill levels and nationalities.  We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories.

All Quests include:

• Flexible start dates and lengths of stay (1-12 weeks)
• Personalized attention from Coordinator
• Local home stays or on-site lodging options
• Exciting excursions, cultural activities and/or language lessons

Country Information

Volunteer in Japan, a country where the past and future meet! With a unique culture and a 1,200 year history, Japan is filled with ancient ruins, castles, temples and shrines. Visitors to Japan can experience the Japanese tea ceremony, ikebana (traditional Japanese flower arranging), Judo (a type of martial art), Zazen meditation and more, but also explore modern Japan, a land of karaoke, sushi on conveyor belts, and one of the strongest economies in the world.  

However, despite its abundance of cultural and historical riches, Japan is struggling. On March 11, 2011, Japan was hit by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake; within minutes, a 33-foot high tsunami hit northeastern Japan -- sweeping away infrastructure (bridges, railroads, pipelines), destroying homes, and killing thousands. The situation was  complicated by a nuclear disaster in Fukushima.

Currently, the Tohoku area is still devastated, and thousands are without homes. Volunteers are needed to help rebuild disaster areas, assist children in struggling local schools, and lift the spirits of the Japanese people.

Volunteers may also choose to volunteer in the beautiful city of Nagoya in the Aichi Prefecture. Nagoya, Japan’s fourth largest city, is located at the heart of Japan -- both in terms of location, and in terms of traditional culture and kindness of the people. United Planet’s Nagoya program offers an interesting and meaningful range of volunteer projects, an opportunity to discover authentic Japanese culture, and immerse with the people.

Volunteers also have the opportunity to take Japanese language classes, experience traditional Japanese culture, and go on excursions.

Volunteer Opportunities in Japan: 1 - 12 Weeks

United Planet currently offers volunteering opportunities in the Tohoku region (disaster recovery) for a minimum of ten days; and in Nagoya for a minimum of one week. Download a flyer with more information.

What's Included and Program Details

Please note: Japanese language skills are not required for any Quests in Japan. 

		Japan Prices and Details				Sample Japan Itinerary

Highlights

• 1.5 hours of Japanese classes per week
• Diverse cultural activities, such as Japanese tea ceremony, kimono wearing, Ikebana (flower arrangement), paper arts (origami), Zazen meditation, Aikido, Judo, and more.
• Excursions to historic sites, such as Samurai era Nagoya Castle, Matsushima (one of most beautiful sites in Japan), Shirakawa Go (World Heritage Site), and traditional castle town of Hida Takayama.