Japan – Volunteer for Alternative Teaching in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, is renowned for its beautifully preserved temples, tranquil gardens, and traditional tea houses. Formerly the nation’s imperial capital, Kyoto uniquely blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Volunteers stay in a shared house in Kyoto’s Fushimi ward, with easy access to local sites and amenities. We partner with various free schools across Kyoto, and volunteers use public transport (subway, train, or bus) for their daily commute, which can vary from 20 to 80 minutes depending on the school location.

The Free Schools program in Kyoto partners with alternative schools that provide a flexible and student-centered learning experience for children between 6 and 14 years old, offering an option for children who may not find traditional schooling suitable. By prioritizing students’ emotional well-being, free schools provide an engaging, supportive environment that encourages individual expression and curiosity.

Your role as a volunteer

Volunteers help with informal learning while providing them with their first exposure to the English language. They may also engage children in creative projects, games, or outdoor activities such as gardening, excursions, and visits that promote social interaction and personal growth. There is usually a high degree of freedom for volunteers to contribute based on their personal preferences and skills. They might, for instance, engage in sports, music, dance, crafts and arts, theater, or conduct experiments to explain scientific concepts. They might play games (including computer games), or show the use of computers and technology. The role often involves fostering a safe and supportive space for students to build confidence and develop at their own pace. Volunteers also contribute by offering unique cultural perspectives, which helps broaden students’ worldviews. You will make use of the English language to conduct all of these activities, but the level of English of the children and teachers is basic to none, so please be prepared to make yourself understood using non-verbal communication. Volunteers should expect to assist non-English speaking teachers and kids.

Volunteer Tasks

• Support informal English conversation practice while engaging in play and creative activities.
• Organize and lead creative projects, such as arts, crafts, and theater.
• Facilitate outdoor activities like gardening or nature excursions.
• Support students in interactive learning through games and technology.
• Introduce cultural elements from your home country to broaden worldviews.
• Help create a friendly, non-competitive environment where children feel supported.
• Offer guidance and encouragement in a range of activities based on your skills.

This program is well-suited for mature travelers comfortable navigating the school with a significant language barrier. Volunteers should have some previous travel experience and be at ease working with local staff, utilizing translation apps to communicate. You can expect to volunteer approximately 30 hours per week, Monday through Friday. The program collaborates with several free schools across the city, and about two weeks before your start date, we will provide your specific school assignment along with its profile. You will commute independently from the sharehouse accommodation to your assigned school using public transport. On your first day, a team member will accompany you to the school, guiding you along the route to ensure you feel confident navigating on your own.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available at the sharehouse

Laundry: A coin-operated laundry machine (300 yen per load) is available on-site.

Accommodations: Volunteers stay in a shared house in Kyoto’s Fushimi ward. The accommodation includes mixed-gender dormitories for 4–8 people, with shared bathrooms and communal facilities such as a kitchen, living room, and outdoor terrace. The location allows for convenient access to Kyoto and Osaka, and is close to supermarkets, local attractions, and a nearby train station. Twin rooms (shared with another traveler) are available for an additional fee. Private rooms are not available. This placement can be booked without accommodation for a reduced fee, if arranged at the time of booking.

Food: Meals are not included, but a fully equipped kitchen is available in the sharehouse, allowing volunteers to prepare their own meals. Local dining options are also available within walking distance.

• Minimum age of 18 (minors ages 17 can be considered with parental consent)
• No Japanese language skills are required, however, the level of English among both the kids and the teachers is basic to none.
• Mature volunteers with travel experience in countries with language barriers
• GoEco interview after application
• Ability to communicate in English.
• National Police Clearance
• Resume submission required at least 4 weeks prior to volunteering.
• Ability to work in a team
• Arrival is on Fridays between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM at Kansai or Itami Airport, with the program starting the following Monday. Note that arrivals are not available during certain public holidays, including Golden Week, Obon, and New Year holidays.
• Minimum duration is 1 week, with the maximum duration determined by visa regulations.
• Participation is possible on a Temporary Visitor Status visa, which provides 90 days for most nationalities (some receive 180 days; others 15 or 30 days). Other self-arranged visas are also acceptable.

Kyoto offers a wide range of experiences for volunteers during their free time. Highlights include the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, perfect for a scenic hike. The serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, especially peaceful in the early morning, and the culturally rich Gion district, home to Kyoto’s traditional geisha culture, are also must-visits. Seasonal festivals, artisanal shops, and local sake breweries showcase Kyoto’s unique charm, and the Nishiki Market provides a taste of Japanese street food and local crafts. Whether visiting historic temples, enjoying cherry blossoms along the Kamo River, or exploring local tea houses, Kyoto offers endless memorable experiences. Public transport makes it easy to reach these sites, and our staff can provide tips for getting around.

Japan Adventure Tour Add-on: 

Discover Japan with GoEco’s 9- or 13-day group adventure tour, a great addition before or after your volunteer program. This all-inclusive experience covers accommodation, local transport, and expert guides, allowing you to explore with ease alongside like-minded travelers. Discover Tokyo’s culture, Kyoto’s temples, Hiroshima’s history, and enjoy sushi-making, a calligraphy class, an onsen visit, a ryokan stay, a Lake Ashi cruise, Mount Fuji views, and more. With a balance of guided activities and free time, this tour offers an exciting and well-rounded way to experience Japan. See Additional Options for fees. Following your application, you will receive the full itinerary.