new host  

Help us create an interactive, art-filled home in Shimukappu, Japan

Availability

  2026 

 Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    My partner and I recently came to Shimukkapu, Japan, and we’re slowly bringing an old rural house back to life using natural materials and simple DIY. The house is close to the Tomamu Hoshino Ski Area, surrounded by forests and mountains, yet still within reach of Sapporo. It’s a peaceful place to slow down, learn new skills, and enjoy nature together.

    We are looking for the right people, for the projects we have in mind. We are trying to do something different with our project here, and we need the right type of skills, experience and attitude. This will be a highly creative environment, where you will have the ability to leave your mark in a real way.
    Collectively, my partner and I have volunteered at over 15 different workways, and we have learned a thing or two, or many in the process.
    With each volunteer that joins us, there will be a clear understanding of what project will be your main focus, whether it is with the natural building aspects, or the art/installation aspects. We have been to too many workaways where there isn't that sort of understanding, and it ends up being unfulfilling for the volunteers, and seemingly a hassle for the host as well. The best workways we have partaken in as volunteers, have been the ones where we had a clear idea of our task in mind.

    Really, we would love to talk more with anyone who is at all curious, whether you are able to join us in the shorter term or not. We are striving to create something special, so please reach out.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Art Projects
    Help with Eco Projects
    Light gardening
    Creative DIY projects
    Help with Computers/ Internet
  • Interests

    Interests

    Events & social
    Technology
    Sustainability
    Plant care
    Music
    History
    DIY & crafts
    Books
    Art & design
    Gardening
    Cooking & food
    Writing
    Hitchhiking
    Carpentry
    Drawing & painting
    Dancing
    Mountain
    Yoga / Wellness
    Nature
    Camping
    Winter sports
    Outdoor activities
    Hiking
    Adventure sports
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    We are located near Tomamu Hoshino Ski Area, so skiing/snowboarding is right there. This is a small town, with a healthy little community. We will also be making weekend trips, for music events, and to explore cool places, both in the city and in nature.
    We are long time workawayers, and really our goal is to have a clear understanding for what you are trying to get out of your stay here, and to make sure that can align with what you are looking for.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

    This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

  • Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage

    Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage

    This host offers accommodation and payment.

  • Help

    Help

    We’re working on a mix of light house projects and creative experiments inside the building. This includes things like preparing walls for natural finishes (clay/lime mixes), doing simple DIY tasks, organizing spaces, and helping us set up a playful, interactive art environment in the house.
    We are looking for people with specific skills/interests related to these aspects. We have some cool projects in mind, and looking to pair those projects with the right helpers.

    This is a paid stay, and we offer payment in line with Minimum Wage here in Japan. We also offer free accommodation along side of that.

  • Languages spoken

    German: Fluent
    English: Fluent
    Spanish: Fluent
    Italian: Intermediate
    Japanese: Beginner

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    We offer either a shared room, with a two double beds, or a single room with a double bed. You will have access to a kitchen as well as a shared bathroom.

    We will be providing meals, but expect simple cooking in line with common Japanese cuisine. My partner and I are both lovers of well rounded meals, with as many whole foods incorporated as possible. We eat everything, and probably wouldn't be the best fit for vegans/vegetarians, tho exceptions can be made. Japan is a fish heavy place, and we incorporate lots of fish into our diet.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Can host digital nomads

    Can host digital nomads

    We have both been digital nomads, and value fast internet and good working space. We can't promise monitors or proper desk chairs, but they may be possible. We are extremely flexible about when you can do your volunteering.

  • Space for parking camper vans

    Space for parking camper vans

    This host can provide space for campervans.

  • Can possibly accept pets

    Can possibly accept pets

    This host has said they are willing to accept those travelling with a pet.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

Host ref number: 198294268595

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