Japan Volunteer Quests

Volunteer in Japan

"I could not have imagined a more perfect first visit to Japan, all thanks to United Planet. It was the most organized, fulfilling organization I have ever been a part of. The experience surpassed my expectations: from the host family, to the volunteer work, the visits around Japan, to the everyday cultural involvement - the people of United Planet and Japan made me feel like I was family. I went to Japan to volunteer and in turn I learned more than I could have dreamed of in such a short Quest time period. I will absolutely be using United Planet again and would recommend this amazing organization to anyone that asked with flying colors."

--Megan Feeney, United Planet Japan

Webinar on about Disaster Recovery Efforts is available online. Find out more.
Read about the experiences of earthquake survivors on the United Planet Japan blog.

Facts

More than 22,000 people died or went missing in the Great East Japan Earthquake and resulting tsunami.
40,000 Japanese are still living in community centers and homeless shelters.
The earthquake moved portions of Japan as much as 7.9 feet, and shifted the earth's axis by 4-10 inches.

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
Personalized attention from Coordinator
Local home stays or on-site lodging options

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.

Volunteers may choose to volunteer in Tokyo or Hiroshima where the programs offer an interesting and meaningful range of volunteer projects, an opportunity to discover authentic Japanese culture, and immerse with the people.

Volunteer Opportunities in Japan: 12 Weeks

What's Included and Program Details

Japan Prices and Details

Quest Program Briefs

	Working with People with Disabillities Quest Minimum Stay: 12 weeks (enroll at least 4 months in advance) Volunteers needed: Year Round Requirements: At least 18 years old, previous international travel experience recommended These eco-friendly communities are home to adults with various mental and physical disabilities. The community has recycling workshops, a community cafe, vegetable garden, and a chicken farm. Volunteers will assist in the agriculture, handcraft, bakery, weaving, knitting, pottery, and recycling. In addition to assisting the residents in overcoming social limitations and becoming self-reliant, volunteers are encouraged to participate in cultural activities. Volunteers will either live in the community or with a host family.
	Working with the Elderly and People with Disablilities Quest Minimum Stay: 12 weeks (enroll at least 4 months in advance) Volunteers needed: Year Round Requirements: At least 18 years old, previous international travel experience recommended This project allows volunteers the opportunity to work at several different social work venues at once. The project works with the elderly, a day care center for disabled individuals, and a nursing home for children. Volunteers will be asked to assist with life-enhancing activities, such as simply walking around the neighborhood, cooking or cleaning in a patient's home, and planning activities. In addition to these tasks, volunteers are encouraged to share their culture with others through various activities. Volunteers will likely be placed in a host family.
	Working with Young Adults Quest Minimum Stay: 12 weeks (enroll at least 4 months in advance) Volunteers needed: Year Round Requirements: At least 18 years old, high level of Japanese language skills, previous international travel experience recommended Based in Chiba, this is a community of young adults who are trying to restart their lives. The community supports young adults who have difficulties relating to family, mental issues, social life, and others. The aim is for the young adults to overcome their limitations and become self-reliant. Volunteers are asked to work at the cafe, restaurant, nursing home, bakery, kindergarten, or assist with PC support. In addition to the daily tasks, cultural exchange is encouraged through activities. This project features on-site lodging.

	NGO Quest Minimum Stay: 12 weeks (enroll at least 4 months in advance) Volunteers needed: Year Round Requirements: At least 18 years old, previous international travel experience recommended There are two NGOS in need of volunteers in Japan. One based in Tokyo, the ICYE office is in need of volunteers to assist in administration work and reasearch. In addition to learning about non-profit administration, volunteers will be learning about the Japanese business culture as well. Coordinating recruitment documentation, assisting in cultural education, and answering queries are some of the tasks associated with this project. A high level of Japanese is required for this project. Another NGO in Hiroshima focuses on research, conflict prevention, advocacy, and several community activities. Volunteers' daily tasks can range from working in a cafe, document translation, event planning, and attending cross-cultural seminars. Volunteers will likely be housed with other ICYE volunteers.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help! We'd love to talk to you. Email or call 1-800-292-2316.

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the enrollment form. Then reserve your spot with a deposit (which will be credited toward your program fee).

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, your United Planet coordinator will contact you, and arrange a phone session to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

Scholarships and Grants page for current opportunities and resources.
Fundraising page

Special Discounts:

Refer someone who participates in a Short- or Long-term Quest and you will receive 10% off your total Short-term Quest program fee or 5% off your total Long-term Quest program fee.
Participate in 2 Quests and receive 10% off one of your Short-term Quest program fees.

More Info

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