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Min stay requested: 1 week or less
Details
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Description
We recently finished renovating a large akiya (abandoned home) tucked away in a small mountain village in beautiful Myoko, Niigata. Behind the house is a large piece of land that has been left wild for many years. Every summer, the lush vegetation takes over, turning the space into a true mountain jungle!
Because the land is so overgrown, it has also become a place where local wildlife can take shelter, right in the middle of the village. We want to clear and manage the space safely and thoughtfully, transforming it into a peaceful, beautiful natural garden that can be cared for and enjoyed for years to come.
We're welcoming enthusiastic people to join us in bringing this land back to life! Depending on the season, tasks may include:
Clearing brush and managing thick vegetation
Creating walking paths
Gardening, planting, pruning, and basic landscaping
Building simple, functional outdoor spaces
This is a hands-on, physical outdoor project, so it's best suited to people who enjoy nature, physical tasks, and seeing a tangible transformation. Safety and comfort are top priorities, and we'll work together step-by-step using the appropriate tools and equipment.
This is a personal, non-profit project. Our goal is to create a welcoming and beautiful space while sharing the experience of rural Japan with people from around the world. Together, let's turn this neglected piece of land into something truly special! -
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Language practice
Light gardening
Creative DIY projects
Farmstay help
Light maintenance
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Interests
Mountain
Hiking
Charity work
Sustainability
Farming
Plant care
Cooking & food
Languages
Gardening
DIY & crafts
Carpentry
Yoga / Wellness
Winter sports
Nature
Adventure sports -
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Living here gives you a chance to experience a very different side of Japan from the usual tourist destinations. We live in a small mountain village surrounded by forests, rice fields and mountains, where life still follows the seasons.
Depending on when you visit, you may get to experience local festivals and village events, visit nearby temples and shrines, explore traditional villages, enjoy local food, and see what everyday life is like in rural Japan.
Myoko is also an incredible place for anyone who loves nature. There are mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, lakes and hiking trails all around us, as well as beautiful places to explore in every season. The area is famous for its huge amount of winter snow, but spring, summer and autumn are just as beautiful in completely different ways. There are also plenty of onsen to enjoy after a day outside.
We'll be happy to share our favorite places, introduce you to local food and customs, and help you discover some of the places and experiences that you might otherwise miss as a visitor to Japan.
At the same time, we're hoping this can be a two-way exchange. We love meeting people from different countries and would love to hear about your culture, food, language and life back home.
Rather than simply visiting Japan as a tourist, we hope you'll get a chance to spend some time living here and experience what life in the Japanese countryside is really like. -
Help
• Clearing brush, vines and unwanted vegetation
• Cutting back and maintaining overgrown areas
• Creating and maintaining walking paths
• Gardening, planting, weeding and mulching
• Pruning trees and shrubs
• Basic landscaping and preparing garden areas
• Moving soil, branches and other materials
• Building simple things such as paths, garden beds, fences or other outdoor features -
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Japanese: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner -
Accommodation
Bedrooms: 3 private Western-style bedrooms and 3 traditional tatami rooms with futons.
Facilities: Access to a fully furnished kitchen, 1 full bath/shower room, and 2 toilets.
We are unfortunately not able to provide meals or a food allowance, so Workawayers will be responsible for purchasing and preparing their own food. In keeping with this arrangement, we ask for no more than 15 hours of help per week, with plenty of free time to explore and enjoy Myoko.
We also have an extra vehicle that Workawayers may be able to use for exploring the local area, for around 2–3 days per week depending on availability and whether they have the appropriate valid driving licence and insurance coverage. Fuel and personal driving expenses would be their responsibility.
We have a kitchen available for Workawayers to prepare their own meals, and there are supermarkets and other shops within easy driving distance. -
What else ...
Our region offers an incredible mix of nature, relaxation, and local culture! Tucked perfectly between the mountains and the sea, there is plenty to explore on your days off.
♨️ Onsen & Relaxation
After a day outdoors, soothe your muscles at local hot springs:
Kawaratei
Kamabuta-no-Yu
Landmark Onsen Café
🏔️ Nature & Outdoor Adventure
Water & Hiking: Hike to the majestic Naena Falls, stroll through Mannai River Sabo Park, or explore the historic Togakushi Shrine complex.
Lakes & Sea: We are just a short trip from both the coast for beach days and Lake Nojiri for water activities.
History & Views: Explore the nearby Samegao Castle Ruins.
🎪 Attractions & Leisure
Local Attractions: Visit the Joetsu Aquarium (Umigatari), Joetsu Science Museum, or Myoko Sunshine Land amusement park.
Golf: Several beautiful 18-hole golf courses are located nearby. -
A little more information
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Internet access
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Limited internet access
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We have pets
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We are smokers
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Can host families
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Can host digital nomads
Our house has great internet and private rooms
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Space for parking camper vans
We have plenty of space for parking
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How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
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My animals / pets
