"I am so grateful for Olivier and Hiromi. They have an inspiring lifestyle with a beautiful ethos and zest for life that is passionate and contagious."
"My time with Hiromi, Olivier, Hero and Yoshi was very rewarding and memorable. They were very warm and welcoming. From the day I arrived they made me feel like part of the family. The work is varied (cleaning, cooking, english lessons etc) anything Hiromi needs some help with in running her businesses. This worked very well for me as I like variety and was able to help with things I enjoy doing. Staying in Nishiawakura and there lovely home is a great break from the big cities."
"It was my first trip to Japan and my first stop during my three month trip. I had a wonderful time with them and their two kids. Extremely welcoming and helpful hosts. I taught English classes and one-on-one tutoring sessions and helped out in the bakery a few times. In my free time I was able to explore the area and enjoy a beautiful and quiet countryside. I would highly recommend staying with them."
"I am so grateful for Olivier and Hiromi. They have an inspiring lifestyle with a beautiful ethos and zest for life that is passionate and contagious."
Nokishita Toshokan volunteer programme in Nishiawakura, Japan
Nokishita Toshokan is an eco B&B, natural bakery, yoga centre and language school located in the charming village of Nishiawakura. Surrounded by native japanese cedar and cypress forest we take pride in our environment and make sustanable living our daily commitment.
We are a sustainable living center, which offers a way for people to learn, teach and develop ideas for sustainability, art and healthy living.
We open the doors to all people who seek a place for their workshops, research and hobbies whilst cooperating with the daily work carried out at Nokishita Toshokan. Because we have to coordinate the number of volunteers that can stay in our facilities, we ask that you send your request by email. Please give us some time to respond to your request.
From June 1st to July 15th, we have our green season, as this is generally when we welcome Japan's rainy season called tsuyu. The rain is very important for rice cultivation. Also, there are many pretty flowers blooming at this time. One of them is ajisai (hydrangea) which is a symbol of the rainy season in Japan. The minimum length of stay is 2 weeks.
Between July 15th and October 15th we have our high season. This is the perfect time to visit for anyone interested and experienced in customer service, tourism, cooking, art, hospitality management and teaching English. The minimum length of stay is 4 weeks.
Nokishita Toshokan offers volunteers;
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Private accommodation in our traditonal Japanese wooden house with shared bathroom
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3 delicious and healthy meals a day prepared together
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Internet access
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Full interaction with our Nokishita Toshokan family and local community
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A fun atmosphere in the Japanese contryside, an unforgettable experience!
What we ask of our volunteers:
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No experience necessary, just the desire to learn and work together.
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Speak English or French
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5 hours of work a day, for 5 days a week
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Volunteers must pay their own travel expenses, personal items and international insurance.
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International license is a plus but not necessary.
If you are interested, contact us now!