Hanawa Lantern Festival
Code: 20260217-75af-4815-a261-a8979b78053a Copied
About the project
Hanawa Lantern Festival
📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
💼 What the programme involves
Your primary role will be to help prepare for the festival by crafting the lanterns that are central to the celebration. Working alongside local students and residents, you will construct hundreds of small lanterns as well as several large, impressive "toro" measuring up to 2x2 metres. As a group, you will have the creative freedom to design your own large lantern, which will be floated down the river during the festival's moving climax.
The work involves manual tasks and can be physically demanding, requiring enthusiasm and a willingness to get hands-on. This is a unique opportunity to contribute tangibly to a cherished local event and see the direct impact of your efforts.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Volunteers will be housed in a local community building, offering an authentic experience of a simple, traditional Japanese lifestyle. You will sleep on "tatami" mats in shared rooms, fostering a strong sense of community among the volunteer team. Please note that a sleeping bag is required.
🍲 Food
Meals are a communal affair and will be prepared by volunteers on a rotating basis. This is a wonderful chance to learn about Japanese home cooking, using local ingredients to prepare dishes like rice, miso soup, and fresh vegetables. Sharing meals you've cooked together is a key part of the bonding experience.
📍 About the location
🎒 Leisure activities
The project is located in a small, charming town with a population of approximately 7,650 in the southern part of Fukushima Prefecture. This region is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and lush forests, offering a peaceful escape into rural Japan. The town is particularly renowned for its beautiful dahlia gardens, which are in full bloom from August to October.During your free time, you will have numerous opportunities for cultural immersion and recreation:
Cultural Workshops: Experience the powerful and dynamic art of Japanese Taiko drumming.
Homestay Experience: A short homestay with a local family offers a unique opportunity for deep cultural immersion and creating lasting connections.
Onsen (Hot Springs): Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese hot spring, a culturally significant and deeply soothing experience.
Community Events: Participate in exchange parties and sports activities with local residents to build friendships and practise your Japanese.
Explore Nature: Discover the beautiful surroundings of the town through hiking or simply enjoying the tranquil countryside.
⚠️ Requirements
We are looking for volunteers with a genuine interest in and respect for Japanese culture. The ideal candidate is open-minded, flexible, and eager to connect with the local community. Adaptability to simple living conditions and a positive, collaborative attitude are essential for a successful and rewarding experience.
🤝 Meeting point
The exact meeting point and time will be communicated to you upon confirmation of your participation. Typically, volunteers meet at a designated train station or directly at the project site.Please verify this information before your departure.
ℹ️ Additional information
Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.
Sign in to apply📷 Project photos
📅 Available sessions
NICE-26S-0803A
05/08/2026 → 17/08/2026
ℹ️ Key information
Age required
18–99 years old
Solidarity donation
18000.00 JPY ≈ 102 EUR
French tax residents may be eligible for a tax reduction of up to 66% of their costs (membership, plane tickets, solidarity donation).
📍 Location
Fukushima, Japan
Japan
🌍 Location info
Local currency
Japan Yen (JPY / ¥)
Exchange rate
1 JPY = 0.005641 EUR
Rate as of 31/05/2026
Timezone
Japan Standard Time
Local time: 21:51 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken