Help with cultural projects and join a filmmaker’s creative world in Osaka, Japan

Details

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  Description

  Hi! I’m Taro, an independent film producer and distributor based in Osaka. I live in a retro-style apartment building from 1979, located in a quiet, down-to-earth neighborhood near Chidoribashi Station. The building is old but full of charm and character — I’m gradually fixing it up with a creative, hands-on spirit.
  
  I’m hoping to connect with open-minded people who can help keep the space tidy and assist with light DIY projects like cleaning, painting, or organizing. Some unused rooms are slowly being repaired not for business use, but to eventually host creative workshops, film screenings, or artist gatherings.
  
  In exchange, I offer a cozy shared room, a chill atmosphere, and a slice of local Japanese life. There’s no strict schedule — you’ll have plenty of time for your own interests. If you're a filmmaker or artist, I'm happy to share my experience and talk projects too.
  
  If you enjoy independent cinema, unusual buildings, or convenience store sushi (Japan’s underrated delicacy!), we’ll probably get along.
  
  I’ve hosted travelers before and love cultural exchange. LGBTQ+ friendly, kind misfits, and creatively curious people are very welcome here. Let’s share stories and space!

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  DIY and building projects

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  Interests

  

  Videography

  

  Sustainability

  

  Self development

  

  Culture

  

  Movies & TV

  

  Performing arts

  

  Music

  

  Art & design
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  You’ll get a real local experience in Osaka — not touristy, not fake. The place is in a quiet neighborhood near Chidoribashi Station, and you’ll probably meet some of my friends, neighbors, or visiting artists. Many filmmakers who’ve passed through say they love the vibe of this area.
  
  It’s also super convenient — Namba is just 15 minutes away, Umeda in 20, Kobe in 30, Nara in 30, and Kyoto in about an hour.
  
  I love talking about film, art, music, and life in Japan. I’ve produced independent films and collaborated with creatives across Asia, so if you're into that, we’ll definitely have fun conversations.
  
  I also hope to learn from you — your stories, your background, and maybe even your cooking. If you’re up for a trip to a local sento (public bath), I’ll teach you how to soak like an Osakan grandpa.
  
  This is a laid-back space with weird energy, good vibes, and zero judgment.

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  Help

  Most of the help is simple and easy to learn — things like light cleaning, organizing common areas, or helping keep the space comfortable for everyone. The most important help I need is cleaning. You should clean your own space, other Workawayers spaces, the rooms, and the building like zen practice. I’ll show you how everything works, and we can take it at a relaxed pace.
  
  If you’re handy or enjoy creative work, there may also be some light DIY tasks like painting, decorating, or finding new uses for old furniture. No heavy lifting or technical skills needed — it’s more about giving the space character and warmth.
  
  I love the mood of the rooms in the film PERFECT DAYS — slow, quiet, and full of feeling — and I’m slowly shaping this space into something similar. One day I hope to host artist meetups, workshops, or film writing sessions here.
  
  I’ll usually be around and happy to work alongside you when I can, but I'm also busy with my film production and distribution business in my room most of the time. If you’re curious about independent cinema, cultural projects, or just want to experience everyday life in Osaka with a creative twist — this is the place.

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  English: Fluent
  Japanese: Fluent
  Spanish: Beginner
  Korean: Beginner
  Chinese (Mandarin): Beginner

  This host offers a language exchange
  I’m fluent in Japanese and English, but I’ve studied Korean, Spanish, and Chinese and would love to practice with you if you speak any of those! I'm not fluent at all, but I’m curious and open. In return, I’m happy to help you with Japanese or answer cultural questions.
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  Accommodation

  You’ll stay in a small retro-style apartment built in 1979 — it’s old, but full of charm and character. Depending on timing, you’ll have either a private room or a shared space with another Workawayer (I’ll let you know in advance).
  
  The room comes with a futon, bedding, Wi-Fi, and an AC.
  
  You’ll have access to a shared kitchen, fridge, shower, and washing machine. I don’t provide meals basically, but you can cook your own — there’s a supermarket just 3 minutes away, and convenience stores all around. Having said that, I really enjoy cooking for Workawayers and eating dishes Workawayers cooked.
  
  It’s not a polished setup — more like a creative home base that’s slowly evolving. My goal is to build a relaxed and open space where interesting people can cross paths. It’s a little weird, but it’s real — and I’ll make sure you feel respected and welcomed.

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  What else ...

  On your days off, you can explore Osaka — visit Expo 2025, Universal Studios, Dotonbori, local sento (public baths), or just wander the neighborhood and discover cheap eats and hidden gems. Many Workawayers said the sewage museum nearby was good although I've never been there...
  
  I try to keep the space clean and relaxed, so no wild parties or snoring competitions, please. Quiet hours after 11pm, and a respectful attitude toward neighbors and fellow Workawayers is appreciated.
  
  I’m usually around but also respect everyone's independence. If you’re easygoing and self-sufficient, we’ll get along great.

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  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

  The Wi-Fi is good enough for working, streaming, and Zoom calls. I won’t interrupt you during your work time — just help out a few hours around your schedule. As long as we communicate clearly, we’re good.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  More than two

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  My animals / pets

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