Volunteering/Living in Japan (Tokyo or surrounding)

Hi,

I’m looking to spend 1.5-2 months in Japan before September this year, preferably in Tokyo or on the outskirts so that I can explore the city and other popular destinations in Japan.

I want to be volunteering, with limited hours each day, so I can explore the city and go to the gym. Is anyone aware of any schemes by which they provide accommodation in this area for undergoing volunteering? I will be traveling solo, but any information would be great if anyone has any recommendations to undergo this path, please let me know!

3 comments
  1. >Is anyone aware of any schemes by which they provide accommodation in this area for undergoing volunteering?

    You could look into WWOOF, although that’s geared towards the rural market looking for farmhands or help running small hotels.

    Keep in mind that if you’re here on a tourist visa you’re not allowed to work for remuneration. Receiving a room in exchange for “volunteering” would absolutely run afoul of immigration. Folks have been deported for cleaning their hostels in exchange for discounts.

    -edit-
    Incase anyone accuses me of hyperbole… https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/10/12/national/crime-legal/hokkaido-hostelier-hot-water-foreign-female-guests-busted-maids/

  2. For the gym, you might have trouble signing up.

    I know that certain publicly/city run gyms may be using a ticketing machine system that you can easily use but most other gyms will require you to be a resident of Japan, so you might struggle on that front.

  3. >I’m looking to spend 1.5-2 months in Japan before September this year

    On which visa?

    If you’re going to be on a tourist visa you are not allowed to receive anything in return for your work. And as u/Benevir pointed out, room and board counts as payment, and this isn’t allowed.

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