Favourited 151 times
We are a Canadian family of five living in Ome (western Tokyo). We are missionaries running a Christian retreat house beside a beautiful river in the mountains.
Before having kids we traveled extensively around the world and have benefited greatly from interacting with people from different cultures and countries.
Our retreat house has a double function of being a community space for local people to connect as well as a place of rest for people from the city.
We love people from every religion however if you are offended by the message of Jesus this probably is not the right place for you.
We have three young children. Most people find them a joy to be around but if you don't like kids this probably is not the right place for you.
We love people but sometimes we need space just to be our family.
We CANNOT host anyone without travel insurance. Medical care in Japan is NOT free.
Please note that it is absolutely NO SMOKING at our place, including the garden and the vicinity.
Language practice
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Experience the countryside of Tokyo. People are friendly and the nature is beautiful.
You can practice English or Japanese. Experience a fusion culture of Canada and Japan.
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
The primary tasks include helping in the home (cooking, laundry, cleaning), landscaping and minor construction projects. Please reference your experience in either of these areas when you contact us.
We are not always as organized as we'd like to be so being able to take initiative, keep track of your work hours and having a flexible attitude are essential.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Japanese: Fluent
This host offers a language exchange
We are interested in practicing Japanese with native Japanese speakers.
The primary accommodation is your own room with two single beds, own shower, toilet and sink. This is on a separate floor from our family bedrooms.
On the rare occasion, the guest suite will not be available in which case you will have your own room but share our shower and toilet.
You can join us for meals or use our kitchen and buy and prepare your own meals.
You can swim in and enjoy campfires along the river, as well as multiple mountain hikes in the area.
Visiting shrines and temples nearby including the famous but less touristy Mitake Shrine. The Okutama Lake is about 30 minutes away by a train ride. And of course, you can visit the center of Tokyo once in a while if you miss the crowd and vibrant atmosphere there anytime, though it does cost about 1000 yen one way for the JR train ride.
We live about 15 min. walk from the nearest train station.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
This host can provide space for campervans.
Two
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.5)