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, 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.

As a volunteer, you will help create and support an inclusive atmosphere by assisting with lessons, organizing activities, and providing English conversation practice. With opportunities to incorporate personal interests—like art, music, or science—you can broaden students’ experiences, helping to build their confidence and social skills.

Volunteer Tasks

• Assist with informal English lessons and conversational practice.
• 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.

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 sharehouse in Kyoto’s Fushimi ward, featuring mixed-gender dorms for 4-8 people with shared bathrooms and facilities, including a kitchen, living room, and outdoor terrace. The location is convenient for commuting to Kyoto and Osaka, providing easy access to local attractions, supermarkets, and a nearby train station. Twin rooms are available for an extra fee.

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)
• Minimum duration is 1 week, with the maximum duration determined by visa regulations.
• GoEco interview after application
• Ability to communicate effectively 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.
• 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.