Tanabe
Code: 20251107-75af-4815-a261-a8979b78067a Copied
About the project
Tanabe
📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
💼 What the programme involves
As a volunteer, you will be directly involved in the plum cultivation that defines this region. Your primary tasks will involve hands-on agricultural work, which is vital for the success of the harvest. No prior experience is needed, as local experts will provide all necessary training and guidance.
Your main activities will include:
Plum Harvesting: Carefully collecting plums that have naturally fallen onto nets spread beneath the trees.
Sorting and Picking: Assisting in hand-picking plums directly from the trees and sorting them according to quality.
Cultural Exchange: Participating in visits to local schools, where you can interact with students, share your culture, and learn about life in rural Japan. This is a wonderful opportunity for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
🏠 Accommodation on site
You and your fellow international volunteers will live together in a large, shared room at a local community centre, fostering a strong sense of community and teamwork. Bedding is provided, so you do not need to bring a sleeping bag. This communal living arrangement is a fantastic way to build friendships and share experiences.
🍲 Food
Meals will be a collaborative effort, with volunteers taking turns to cook. This is a great chance to share recipes from your home country and learn to prepare authentic Japanese dishes using fresh, local ingredients. You will, of course, have plenty of opportunities to taste the region's star product in its various forms, such as umeboshi (pickled plums) and refreshing plum juice.
📍 About the location
🎒 Leisure activities
The project is based in Tanabe City, located in the south-central part of Wakayama Prefecture. Known as "the fruit kingdom" of Japan, Wakayama is a region of lush mountains and a beautiful coastline. Tanabe is the largest city in the Kinki region by area and serves as a gateway to the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.During your free time, you will have numerous opportunities to explore the rich culture and stunning nature of the area. You can immerse yourself in local traditions and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.Potential leisure activities include:
Hiking sections of the historic Kumano Kodo trails.
Observing the traditional art of charcoal making (Binchōtan).
Learning to make delicious, fresh plum juice.
Exploring the scenic landscapes and charming local towns.
⚠️ Requirements
This project is ideal for individuals who are enthusiastic, open-minded, and ready to contribute to a meaningful cause. A strong motivation to support sustainable agriculture and engage in cultural exchange is essential.
You should be prepared for physical work outdoors, as harvesting is a demanding but rewarding activity.
A positive attitude and a willingness to work collaboratively within an international team are crucial.
An interest in learning about Japanese culture and rural life will greatly enhance your experience.
🤝 Meeting point
Detailed information about the meeting point will be provided upon your acceptance into the project.
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-0613A
13/06/2026 at 00:00 → 23/06/2026 at 00:00
NICE-24S-0615A
15/06/2024 → 25/06/2024
ℹ️ Key information
Age required
18–75 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
Wakayama, 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: 21:03 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken