JAPAN

JapNiceMtv09-07 Abukuma (Fukushima) 01-Apr-07 to 30-Sep-07 MTV/ENVI 1 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Host organization is Abukuma Nature School Network. The theme of this organization is learning from soil and nature, and live together ! and to make it into practice, they organize many programs and activities for ranging from kids to adults. For example, they organize nature school, class room for farmer, foresters, and organic farming group, visiting local school, 2 weeks nature camp for kids, etc. They are hoping to make these programs more active and make better relationship between local community and organization. W: planning, preparing, and organizing above events, programs with other staffs. Agricultural works,

forest woks are also very important. S: Organizing nature activities. Please bring some information of nature school in your country. A: Single room of nature school. Pocket money of 20,000 yen ($171) per month. L: Small village in forest area, the population is about 5,000. the village is surrounded by rich nature. T: Tokyo (2 hours and half from Tokyo by bus). Q: Speaking some Japanese, strong motivation for the host. Experience of similar types of work. is welcome!

JapNiceMtv02-07 Monyongoro Mura (Tochigi) 01-Apr-07 to 31-Oct-07 MTV/ENVI/AGRI/MENT 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Volunteer must stay a minimum of three months any time between April-October!

Host organization is a local NPO Monyongoro village, where 4 mentally disadvantaged people live and work together. This group is not only working for social works but also community development, promoting organic farming and environment conservation. Through these activities they aim to develop and maintain the kindest village in world. We NICE organize a governmental youth support program, Wakamono-Jiritsujuku, which support youth at difficulties so called NEET. W: Organic farming (planting, weeding, cultivating, harvesting, to make organic vegetables blue-berry, reviving abandoned rice fields). Forest works (cutting grasses, branches and trees), Empowering NEET youth (Communication with them, they can get confidence by the experiences of communicating

foreign people, organize language class) for 2 or 3 days a week. A: A building of the village. You'll have your own room. There is NO pocket money. S: About Youth Empowerment, organic farming, group home. Bring some info.L: Agricultural countryside, about 100 km north of Tokyo. The population is about 12,000.

T: From Tokyo, about 3 hours by train and bus Q: Speaking some Japanese, interested in social works (especially youth issue), cooperative, kind and open mind. This is very difficult program, so we need your strong cooperation!

JapNice19-07 Shirakami 1 (Aomori) 19-May-07 to 03-Jun-07 ENVI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Shirakami Mountains Preservation Society (SMPS) founded in 93. The Shirakami Mountains is a huge mountainous area and one of Japan's very few remaining natural forests consisting primarily of beech trees. It was registered as a World Natural Heritage in 1993. The SMPS wants to help preserve the natural beauty of the Shirakami Mountains, so we will try to revive it in the global voluntary power! W: As it is famous for beautiful nature as the registered world heritage, many tourists visit here, but on the other hand, the nature has been damaged by them though it is still very beautiful. SMPS works to grow a beechen sapling and we do the help for them. Part of Greening Asia. S: Similar kind of activities in each country and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! P: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. A: The simple house. CV. SB! L: The Shirakami Mountains located in the northern part of Honshu Island, is a huge mountainous area

130,000 hectare on the border between Aomori and Akita Prefecture. T: From Tokyo, about 7 hours by bullet train or around 10 hours by bus. Q: Motivation to actively work in the forests and with local people!

JapNice22-07 Shirakami 1 (Aomori) 19-May-07 to 03-Jun-07 ENVI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized since 06 together with Shirakami Mountains Preservation Society (SMPS) founded in 93. The Shirakami Mountains is a huge mountainous area and one of Japanese valuable preserved natural forests consisting primarily of beech trees. It was registered as a World Natural Heritage in 1993 and SMPS wants to help preserving the natural beauty of the Shirakami Mountains, so we will try to revive

it by the global voluntary power! W: we will help to grow a beechen sapling together with the members of SMPS. As it is famous for beautiful nature as the registered world heritage, many tourists visit here, but on the other hand, the

nature has been damaged by them though it is still very beautiful. Part of Greening Asia. S: Similar kind of activities in each country and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! A: A simple house. SB! CV L: The Shirakami Mountains, located in the northern part of Honshu Island, is a huge mountainous area. (130,000 hectares on the border between Aomori and Akita Prefectures). T: Tokyo (7 hours by bullet train or 10 hours by bus). LA: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. SR: Motivation to actively work in the forests with local people!

JapNiceMtv11-07 Oku-Aizu (Fukushima) 01-Jun-07 to 31-Oct-07 MTV/ENVI 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Host organization is Terakoya-Okuaizu, which is a part of organization of Terakoya-Hojyosha (NICE/LM04). This Oku-Aizu is rural area and surrounded by rich nature, but has been facing on serious depopulation, and the number of vacant house and abandoned farms has been increasing rapidly. So, this group has been trying to restore and animating this area. They plan and organize nature camp for kids, eco-tour for people living in the city. Also they cultivate abandoned farms and

repair abandoned school buildings, they want to develop these activities with volunteers. W: planning, preparing, and organizing nature camp, environmental education program for kids. planning, preparing, and organizing eco-tour for people living in the city. S: Organizing nature activities. Please bring some information of nature school in your country. A: Building in abandoned school. Cooking with other volunteers by turn. L: Small village in forest area, the population is about 19,000. There is a hot spring in the town. T: Tokyo ( 4 hours from Tokyo by bus). Q: Speaking some Japanese, strong motivation for the host. Experience of similar types of work is welcome!

JapNiceMtv01A-07 Shintoku (Hokkaido) 01-Jun-07 to 30-Sep-07 MTV/CONS/AGRI/MENT 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Host organization is Kyodo Gakusha shintoku farm, a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who wants to learn farming, etc. They have five communities in Tokyo, Nagano and Hokkaido and grow animals and vegetables in ecological, organic way with utilizing Bacterium. Their cheese got the 1st prize in the national contest! They are hoping to build new houses for residents this year. W: Constructing houses (making basement, constructing frameworks, etc.), various agricultural works (planting, weeding, cultivating, harvesting, to make organic vegetables taking care of animals), etc. S: Similar types of communities in each country and future networking. Bring some info.! A: Share room of Kyodo Gakusha, cooking as a group by turn (Vegetarian is possible!) L: Agricultural country side, 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer.

T: Sapporo (2 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 13 hours by bullet train or 32 hours by ship. Q: Speaking some Japanese, strong motivation for the host. Skills of agriculture or construction can be useful!

JapNice23-07 Shirakami 1 (Aomori) 16-Jun-07 to 30-Jun-07 ENVI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

JapNice24-07 Maki 2 (Nagano) 27-Jun-07 to 10-Jul-07 AGRI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

A: Building for volunteers in the farm. CV. SB! There are some gas, electricity and water! L: Very isolated, but beautiful village near "Japanese Northern Alps". About 900 meters asl. There are something remained here that most of Japanese areas have lost in modernization. T: From Tokyo, 4 hours by express train or 8-10 hours by bus and train. LA: Visit to the elementary school, sports, meeting with local people, etc. SR: Physically strength. Agricultural or architectural skills are welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice25-07 Kodomo-mura 1 (Oita) 07-Jul-07 to 21-Jul-07 RENO 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized since 98 together with "KODOMO-Art" (KA) that was founded in 72. They run Summer Vacation Kids Program called " Kodomo-mura" (Kids Village = KV) with 30 kids aged 8-15 every year. This year, they will do it in Nakatsue Village as well as many other mountain villages where depopulation is quite serious. A school was abandoned by the shortage of the number of students where KA tries to remain and make use of the building for animating the village by organizing KV, etc.

W: We will restore the school where KA will organize KV. The buildings had been left for a long time, so need to be renovated for the safely of the children. We will also do various community works needed in the area such as farm and forest works.

S: Life of kids in each country and its activities. Bring some info.! A: The school. SB! CV but sometimes MP. L: Small village in the mountains, in the very center of Kyushu Island. T: Fukuoka. From Osaka, 9 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc. SR: Motivation to actively work with local people!

JapCiee09-07 AMANOHASHIDATE, KYOTO 13-Jul-07 to 27-Jul-07 CULT/KIDS 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Background: Kyoto Youth Hostel Association was established in 1968 and it has been playing a significant role in a field of international exchange activities in Kyoto since. In order to help people in one of the most historical town in Japan promote to have better understandings about foreign cultures, Kyoto Youth Hostel Association hereby welcomes the volunteers from overseas in 2007. Work:

Volunteers will be in charge of various duties to maintain the accommodation well such as working at front desk as well as cleaning rooms. Also volunteers will be expected to help organize a summer camp for local children that take places in the hostel. Some exchange programs between the volunteers and local people will be planned as well. Each participant will be encouraged to bring a few things to show their own culture to local children. Participants need to have English skills to communicate travelers at the hostel. Some intermediate Japanese skills are required in order to work with Japanese staffs. A motivation letter is also needed for application. Accommodation: Rooms will be provided in the hostel that the volunteers are working at. Also participants will have an opportunity to stay in local peoplefs house for a few days during the project. The accommodation in the hostel has a shared kitchen, a washer and bathrooms. Also it has an internet access and a telephone in the site that can make international calls however using telephone card is strongly encouraged. Meals will be provided 3 times a day when staying in the hostel but the kitchen is available for cooking as well. Vegetarian diet is also available. Each volunteer will be expected to represent their home countries food to local Japanese during the project. Location: Amanohashidate, a famous sightseeing spot located in northeastern Kyoto has been attracting people for hundreds of years by its very unique landscape. It is also known as one of top-three best views in Japan. gAmanohashidateh means gThe place where the heaven, ground and sea meeth. The base town Miyazu is facing its eastern side to Miyazu bay, and is surrounded by abundant of natures as well as various classical architectures built in the 16th century. The volunteer site is in the center of the city. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to get to Miyazu from Kansai International Airport by train. From Kyoto station, roughly 1.5 hours by pubic transportations.

JapCiee01-07 MIMASAKA, OKAYAMA 15-Jul-07 to 30-Jul-07 ENVI/CULT 9 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Background: Local sponsor, Mimasaka International Interchange Exchange AssociationiMIIEAj is derived from Mimasaka English Language club(MELC)which was founded in 1992. MELC consists of 20 students, mostly local adults, learning English by Assistant Language Teachers (ALT) from overseas. Besides the language teaching & learning, some members of this club has been acting to contribute to internationalization of their town organized MIIPA recently to focus on cultural exchange. This volunteer project has been established and they look forward to accepting participants from various countries. Work:

Volunteer will weed a bank of river go through this town to protect the habitat of "fireflies" which are only live in the clean water. With locals joining this project on the voluntary basis, volunteers will also help to analyze water quality with them. Volunteers should bring work clothes including rubber gloves and boots, and be able to ride a bike for their transfer. Also, participants have the opportunity to attend the local events, such as to visit Japanese elementary school, to show locals your own country and culture. Also volunteers may have a chance to join a summer dancing festival. Volunteers are expected to be interested in any event takes place in the countryside of Japan. Be ready to introduce your country and to cook your local cuisines!! Motivation letter will be necessary. Accommodation:

Most days of this project, each volunteer will be accommodated in the local family house where the family is very interested in hosting experience and cultural exchange. Volunteers should expect there are some house rules at each family. Breakfasts and dinners will be provided by hostfamilies and lunches will be done by either hostfamily or others. Location:This project is located in Mimasaka-cho in Okayama Prefecture where is famous for its full of nature, hot springs, sightseeing spot, and the legend "MOMOTARO (Peach boy)". Hayashino Station is located about 1and 1/2 hour by train from HIMEJI city in Hyogo prefecture.

JapNice26-07 Kodomo-mura 1 (Oita) 20-Jul-07 to 04-Aug-07 KIDS 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized since 98 together with "KODOMO-Art" (KA) that was founded in 72. They run Summer Vacation Kids Program called " Kodomo-mura" (Kids Village = KV) with 30 kids aged 8-15 every year where they play, cook and live in the nature as they plan to grow their independence, sensitivity, group cooperation, and want to put global colors which grow understanding and passion toward different

cultures. We need to be ready to spend 24 hours with them for this period except some free days. W: We will first have an orientation to understand the aims and the objectives. Then, we will help and live together with kids in KV such as supporting activities, teaching songs, sleeping and showing your culture. The kids will try to plan the schedule by themselves, so you will need to respect their ways!

S: Life of kids in each country and its activities. Bring some info.! A: A community center and Tents. SB! CV but sometimes MPL: Small village in the mountains, in the very center of Kyushu Island. T: Fukuoka. From Osaka, 9 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc. SR: Those who love kids and speak/ understand Japanese language. Responsibilities, group

cooperativeness and motivation are necessary! Specialist of games, songs, cooks & similar types of experience is very welcome. Motivation letter is needed!.

JapCiee06-07 TAKATSUKI, OSAKA 20-Jul-07 to 13-Aug-07 ELD/MENT 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Background:Local sponsor, "Takatsukiso" is the name of home for the aged built about 20 years ago in OSAKA and owned by the local government. There are about 100 elderly (65 yrs. or above) people accepted in this house, who are physically or mentally disabled and need help for their daily lives. There are also 130 elderly people coming to this institute to take "day care service" there, where they will take bath and have meals with help, and other necessary services. There are about 180 staffs working in this house being engaged in visiting-home helper service, taking elders in a bath, helping for meals and their daily lives. Many entertaining events such as cherry blossom viewing, movie days, and beer parties, dancing night are also well planned for those who are staying in the house. They accept many volunteers every year. Work: Volunteer will work at Takatsukiso with the full time staffs. Volunteers will be engaged in helping elderly and physically handicapped people living in the house to take bath and eat meals, helping to organize some events such as the Bon (Lantern) Festival held during their stay. Japanese skills will be required to enjoy the project (Volunteers can not expect "English only environment"!!). Volunteers are expected to act positively and considerately and communicate with those aged people friendly, and also to make good use of their social experience in Japan back home. Motivation letter will be needed. Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in the dormitory next to the Takatsukiso House. All meals will be provided in the house and the participants will have meals with elders and staffs. There are kitchenette, bath, shower, bed and other necessary facilities in the dormitory. Sleeping bag is not necessary. Location: Takatsukiso is located in Takatsuki-shi, Osaka-fu prefecture. It is easily access from down town, Osaka and Kyoto, the most famous ancient city in Japan. Volunteers might be able to enjoy visiting those cities during their day-offs.

JapCiee08-07 HINO-SHI, TOKYO 21-Jul-07 to 05-Aug-07 KIDS/TEACH 6 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALIZED! Background: MSSP stands for Meisei Summer School Project. Volunteer students of Meisei University teach English to junior high school students at risk and elementary school students who are interested in English. Based on our theoretical assumption, we prioritize activity based teaching rather than the traditional cramming style. Our philosophy is that English teaching and learning are fun. The members of MSSP are students and typically pre-service teachers. It is we who create syllabi, teaching materials, and invent new teaching methodologies. For the year 2007, we will keep opening this opportunity to all our friend pre-service teachers in the world. Work: One of the tasks is to support and help MSSP participant's class in each grade. The members of MSSP are students and typically pre-service teachers. Volunteers participate in actual class of MSSP participants and actively join in their activities and games. In the first week, volunteers will discuss the teaching materials and the contents of activities with Meisei university students. Furthermore, we appreciate the opportunity to talk to children about your country, culture, and circumstances. You do not have to be a native English speaker to participate in this work camp, but some experiences in teaching English as a second language are required. Motivation letter is also needed for application. Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in a guest house called Geihinkan in Meiei University. It has a kitchen, bath (shower, bathtub), small cabinet, washing machine or laundry and guest room. In addition, as an international volunteer program, volunteers are expected to cook international dishes with each other. Materials will be provided to cook each meal.@Internet access is also available in the site. Location: Hino city is located in the western part of Tokyo and is not as big city as Shibuya or Akihabara. Meanwhile, it is surrounded by abundant of nature, and is a quiet peaceful town.

JapNiceMtv01B-07 Onuma (Hokkaido) 21-Jul-07 to 15-Oct-07 MTV/ENVI 4 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Onuma Milestone 22, a new local NGO made by President of Fishermen's Cooperative and Director of international exchange association since 04. Though Onuma lake has been a popular tourism spot for a long time because of its beautiful scenery, it has been polluted by over use of agricultural chemicals in cattle farming and erosion from abandoned forests with non-native trees. President of Cooperative has bought a forest and wants to revive it to original nature with native trees! W: We will cut alien trees and planting native trees to create better forest around the lake. As raising awareness of locals is important, we will also work along the lake by putting stones, check the pollution and making charcoals to purify the water. Also, volunteers will organize environmental activities to involve local people in this lake conservation movement.

S: The future plan of beautiful lakes and sister lakes in the world. Bring some info of lake conservation! P: Excursion, exchange parties, home-stay, farming experience, school visit, sports, etc. A: A house near the lake. SB! CV

L: South of Hokkaido island, in a national park near Hakodate city which is famous for romantic view in the night, especially for sweet couples! T: Sapporo (3 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 10 hours by bullet train or 30 hours by ship.

Q: Motivation to actively work in the forests and with local people!

JapNice28-07 Hinode (Tokyo) 24-Jul-07 to 05-Aug-07 DISABLED/FEST/ENVI 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Hinode Taiyo no Ie (HTI), Home for mentally disadvantaged since 92. As HTI has been isolated from the local community since its beginning in 87 due to their prejudice, it actively opens the place to the people through the festivals, ceramic art, etc. and NICE also has been acting as a "bridge" between locals & HTI through weekend and international workcamps and LAMP.

They also try to be an ecological institution and the surrounding mountains need to be maintained. W: We will 1) run, prepare and clean the summer festival of HTI for 3-4 days, 2) work with mentally disadvantaged in the fields or the building for 2-3 days, 3) maintain the forests(we may make bamboo charcoals, Part of Greening Asia) and 4)exchange program with local kids to eradicate the prejudice.

S: Participation of disadvantaged people in each country. Bring some info.!

A: "Samurai House", the historically valuable for volunteers in HTI. SBN. CV. If you like traditional style of Japanese architecture, this will make you happy every day.L: Mountain side with natural surroundings, about 50 km west of Tokyo.

T: Tokyo (90 min by slow train) LA: Exchange parties, hot spring, ceramic art, etc.

SR: Sufficient motivation to work with mentally disadvantaged people. We also recruit volunteers for LAMP (Long And Middle term voluntary Programs).

JapCiee11-07 Komae, Tokyo 24-Jul-07 to 11-Aug-07 KIDS 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Background: NPO Kodomo Kyositsu-Erubu is a non-profit organization in Komae, Tokyo. It runs a number of activities for various handicapped people throughout the year. Work: Volunteers will help organize summer events and festivals(Kodomo-Matsuri,etc) with the people from the organization. Also teaching English for children, going hiking with kids and other activities with Japanese teenager is planned in order to introduce foreign cultures to Japanese youth. A motivation letter is required for application. Japanese skills for daily conversation are a must to communicate with staffs and children. Accommodation: Volunteers will stay in a local house with the host family for the 1st week. A room in an apartment is scheduled to provide for the 2nd week. Shared room with all facilities. Meals will be provided 3 times a day. Kitchen is available in the apartment. Location:The city of Komae is a typical suburb located in western side of Tokyo metro area. It is roughly 30-45 minutes from the major train station in Tokyo area such as Shinjuku and Tokyo station. From Narita international airport, it takes 2.5 hours by train.

JapCiee10-07 Matsumoto, Nagano 25-Jul-07 to 07-Aug-07 KIDS 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALIZED! Background: Matsumoto Jidoen is an orphanage in Matsumoto city founded in 1950. The institution takes care of children from 2 to 18 years old whose circumstances are hard. Work: Volunteers help maintain the garden of the institution with children. Also participants are expected to support children in wide ranges of their daily activities such as studying, cleaning and all other including outdoor activities. Basic Japanese is necessary. A motivation letter is also required for application. Accommodation: A shared bed room will be provided in the institution. A washer and a shared shower room will also be available. Meals will be provided 3 times a day, but there is no kitchen. Internet access is also available in the camp site. Location: Nagano Prefecture is located in the center of Japan, in the heart of the natural beauty and high mountains famous throughout the country. It hosted the winter Olympic games in 1998. The City of Matsumoto is on a plateau situated in the center of the prefecture. Before the Meiji Restoration of 1867, the city flourished as a castle town. Since then, it has gradually developed as an industrial and cultural center. It is also a tourist city being rapidly

modernized with the completion of the superhighway. For more information, please check out: http://www.city.matsumoto.nagano.jp/english/guide/index.html

JapNice29-07 Takane (Gifu) 27-Jul-07 to 10-Aug-07 FEST/ELDERLY/AGRI 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a local government since 00. As well as many other mountain villages, depopulation is serious here. The population has been decreased to only 650, so they started to organize "the biggest bonfire festival in Japan" in late 90s but lack people to help preparation and running, so the workcamp has been appreciated as inevitable voluntary power for it. Also, elders who still maintain the landscape nearly alone in each area have been so happy to our activities with them! W: We will 1) mainly help to prepare/ run/ clean the bonfire festival (we will run "NICE shop" which sales was used for disaster relief in Indonesia in 2006), 2) help elderly people by cutting fire woods and by working in the day-care center and 3) work in the corn fields, one of new special products.

S: Best practice to revive depopulated areas in each country and their networking. Bring some info.! A: Village center. SB! CV. You will enjoy a hot spring every day near the center! L: About 450 km west of Tokyo. The nearest town is Takayama, a popular tourist town with traditional streets and architectures. World heritage of Shirakawa-go is also not too far. T: Nagoya (3 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 5 hours by bullet train or 8 hours by bus. LA: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. SR: Motivation to activate the village. There are some possibilities that we will recruit 4-5 of 3 months volunteers starting from this short term workcamps and continue to stay in the village (an abandon school) to work for the community.

JapNice30-07 Shirakami 3 (Aomori) 27-Jul-07 to 27-Aug-07 KIDS 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Shirakami Nature School (SNS). For the background of Mt.Shirakami, please see NICE/22! They have a summer vacation program with 25 kids aged 7-12 where they play, cook and live in the nature as they plan to grow their independence, sensitivity, group cooperation, and want to put global colors which grow understanding and passion toward different cultures. We need to

be ready to spend 24 hours with them during this period except some free days.

W: We will first have an orientation to understand the aims and the objectives. Then, we will help and live together with kids all the time in the summer program, such as supporting activities, teaching songs, sleeping and showing your culture, performance. You need to respect their ways! S: Life of kids in each country and its activities. Bring some info.! A: A very simple house. SB! CV L: The Shirakami Mountains, located in the northern part of Honshu Island, is a huge mountainous area (130,000 hectares on the border between Aomori and Akita Prefectures). T: Tokyo (7 hours by bullet train or 10 hours by bus) LA: Excursion of Mt. Shirakami, exchange parties, etc. SR: Those who love kids and speak/ understand Japanese language. Responsibilities, group cooperativeness and motivation are necessary! Specialist of games, songs, cooks & similar types of experience is very welcome. Motivation letter is needed!.

JapCiee07-07 KUSATSU, SHIGA 28-Jul-07 to 06-Aug-07 KIDS 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Background:In Japan, children are having fewer chances to communicate elder people in neighborhoods and also tend to stay inside house to play TV game. TENKIMURA was established in 1987 to reconsider and improve the environments around children and to support their healthy growth. This organization has been having many events related with nature activities for children, making local community better, and support for parents to bring up children under their catch phrase gThe earth is a playground!h Lots of local people are involved in the events as supporters and TENKIMURA give children precious experiences in nature.

Work: Volunteers will experience a few schemes related with elementary school children, such as a kidsf summer camp and spending some time with disabled children. Bring any items or ideas for singing songs, play games with them. Also, volunteers will weed grass on the river near accommodation. Moreover, volunteers will move to campsite for a several days during this workcamp that is located near the biggest lake, Lake Biwa in Japan and will have a chance to meet local people. Work details here have been not fixed yet, so please be flexible to do various works. Japanese skills (intermediate level will be good) would be necessary for communication with kids and motivation letter should be given to us along with his/her application form. Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in a building of the organization and will have to stay with children. There is a shared kitchen is in the site so the participants are expected to cook by themselves. There will be a chance to fix meals with the children in the facility. Volunteers may need to pay roughly 2000 Yen (roughly US$15) per day for the materials for cooking. The accommodation also has a shared shower room, a washer and an internet access.

Location: Shiga prefecture is located in the middle of Japan and is famous for the biggest lake in the country, Lake Biwa, which occupies one sixth of the prefecture. Kusatsu City is located in south of the lake and has over 110 thousand residents. The city was one of sekisho (barriers) on Five Main Highways, which were made in Edo period (1615-1867) and used to be flourishing by tourists. It takes about 20 minutes by train to get Kyoto, which is the historical city and about 2 hours by express trains to get to Kansai International Airport.

JapNice31-07 Kurikoma 2 (Miyagi) 28-Jul-07 to 13-Aug-07 KIDS 4 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together since 06 with Kurikoma Plateau Nature School (KPNS). For the details of KPNS, please see NICE/08. They have a summer vacation program with 20 kids aged 8-15 where they enjoy canoe, playing in the coast and river, camping, etc., and want to put global colors which should grow understanding and passion to different cultures in those kids. We need to be ready to spend 24

hours with them during this period except some free days.W: We will help to run this summer program by playing with kids, running cultural programs such as

teaching your dance, songs, arts, sports, games, cooking, etc. and helping house works such as cleaning and cooking with professional staffs and other vols. You won't have much free time. S: Life of kids in each country and its activities. Bring some info.! A: Tents with the staff members and kids. SB! CV L: Center of Tohoku area, north part of Japan. The Kurikoma specified for the quasi-national park can

enjoy the beech wood and the alpine plant in all seasons. There is a snow of 2m in Feb and March. T: Tokyo (3 hours by bullet train or 9 hours by bus)

LA: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. SR: Those who love kids and speak/ understand Japanese language. Responsibilities, group cooperativeness and motivation are necessary! Specialist of games, songs, cooks & similar types of

experience is very welcome. Motivation letter is needed!.

JapNice32b-07 Un-nan B (Shimane) 31-Jul-07 to 10-Aug-07 KIDS/AGRI/FEST 9 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Same as NICE/ 32A Unnan A. We would like to involve international adult volunteers as staff to make smoothly communication and exchange between teenager participants.W: We will first have an orientation to understand the aims and the objectives. Then, in the workcamp, we adult volunteers will help and live together with teenager all the time such as supporting activities and showing your culture and organizing some of activities for intercultural learning.S: The youth issues and education in each country. Bring some info.! A: Public house. SB! CV

L: Un-nan is located in the east part of Shimane prefecture, the area of highlands about 100 km from Matsue-city. It is a small city with the population of about 50,000. T: Osaka (5 hours by train). From Tokyo, 8 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Exchange parties, excursions, sports festival

SR: Those who like teenager and are very motivated to work with them all day. Similar type of experience is welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice32a-07 Un-nan A (Shimane) 31-Jul-07 to 10-Aug-07 TEEN/AGRI/FEST 15 V. Ages 15-17 Fee:$500.00 Xtra Fee: $171.00 REPORT REFUND: $50.00

Organized together with a local group formed for this project since 06. We started an international teenage workcamp in Japan in 05 and want to give them chances to understand about different cultures, community life, solidarity and build international friendship. The population has been decreased, especially children are very few, so the main problem of Aya today is aging. We aim to have intercultural exchange with locals in this project.W: We will help the local farmers by such as cutting bushes, harvesting vegetables together with them. We will also prepare/ run/ clean the local summer festival. There are possibilities to do some other community works. S: The youth issues and education in each country. Bring some info.! A: Public house. SB! CV L: Un-nan is located in the east part of Shimane prefecture, the area of highlands about 100 km from Matsue-city. It is a small city with the population of about 50,000. T: Osaka (5 hours by train). From Tokyo, 8 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Exchange parties, excursions, sports festival, etc. SR: Only under 18 years old. PF: The additional fee of 20,000 yen should be paid on your arrival directly.

JapCiee02-07 HIGASHI SHIRAKAWAMURA, GIFU 01-Aug-07 to 30-Aug-07 CULT/RENO 15 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALIZED! Background:Local sponsor, Higashi Shirakawa-mura Board of Education cooperate this program with Nagoya University of Commerce & Business Administration. You can enjoy swimming and fishing (extra fee is needed for fishing) in the liver which run through the village. You have a great opportunity to enjoy Japanese traditional pastoral scene and life! Most plans are organized by Nagoya University of Commerce & Business Administration. Work: Volunteers will visit junior highschool and elementary school for doing some cultural exchange activities, for instance to play sports together, to cook together, enjoying games etc. Also volunteers help local people prepare and organize a summer dancing festival and clean up shrine. Moreover, volunteers will have a chance to experience for cutting trees in forest of the village. To communicate with the villagers is one of the big tasks in this project. Volunteer will be divided into a small group and work at the different places in the village. Basic Japanese knowledge will be required. Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in the seminar house which is owned by Nagoya University of Commerce & Business Administration. It has a shared kitchen in the accommodation so the participants will be expected to cook by themselves. It is also equipped with a washer and a shower room. No internet access provided in the facility. No telephone that can make international call either. Also participants will have a chance to stay in local family houses for one night during this camp. Location: Higashi Shirakawa-mura is located near the Hida Mountains which are very famous for its beautiful scenery among climbers and tourists. Takayama Matsuri (festival) is held twice a year in spring and autumn and is famous for its gorgeously decorated floats and parade. The unique folk music performed at the festival also leaves a lasting impression. Also volunteers may have a chance to visit "Shirakawago" which is newly registered to The World Heritage. This is the place for nature lovers! Additional Information:

All participants are fully encouraged to bring a hat, long sleeve shirts as well as long pants in order to work in the forest nearby the project site. Occasionally volunteers have to do their work outside under burning sun.

JapNice33-07 Saga (Saga) 01-Aug-07 to 14-Aug-07 KIDS 11 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized since 06 together with Dream School Academia Terra (DSAT) founded to establish a new alternative school in Saga. They have a summer vacation program with 30 kids aged 7-12 where they play, cook and live in the nature as they plan to grow their independence, sensitivity, group cooperation, and want to put global colors which grow understanding and passion toward different cultures. We need to be ready to spend 24 hours with them during this period except some free days.

L: 30 km south of Fukuoka, but full of nature near the workplace. T: Fukuoka (1 hour by train). From Osaka, 9 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus.

LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc. SR: Those who love kids and try to speak/ understand Japanese language. Responsibilities, group cooperativeness and motivation are necessary! Specialist of games, songs, cooks & similar types of

experience is very welcome.

JapNice34-07 Kitakyushu (Fukuoka) 01-Aug-07 to 14-Aug-07 KIDS/FEST 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Newly organized together with Kitakyushu Seinen Mirai Juku (KSMJ). Since the first Japanese large-scale steel manufacture factory was completed in Kitakyushu, the population has been increased and the town has developed since 1901. However, today the city centers is getting lifeless because of decline of the local industries. KSMJ would like to activate the town by youth and global voluntary power. The workcamp will be coordinated by the local youth, especially an active member of NICE. W: We will join a Kid's camp for a few days and help and live together with kids all the time such as supporting activities and showing your culture, performance. We will also try to involve a lot of people and hold an event for activation of the shopping street.S: Activation of the shopping street. Bring some info.!A: Shinto shrine. SB! CVL: The north part of Kyushu where the population is one million people.T: Fukuoka (1 hour by train). From Osaka, 3 hours by bullet train or 10 hours by midnight bus.LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc.

SR: Motivation to actively work with local people and for kids activities! Person who doesn't mind. Shinto religion because we will stay in Shinto shrine (of course, volunteers with any religions can join).

JapNice35-07 Taishi-Tonda (Osaka) 02-Aug-07 to 16-Aug-07 ENVI 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with local NPOs, Association to protect nature in Tondabayashi and Hamuro Club since 99. Though 70% of Japanese lands are forests, huge forests are wasted since imported wood is much cheaper. Once we take care of forests, it's better to take care of it for various ecology than just to leave it. As most members of this NPO are middle-aged, they expect our participation in itself

and also to involve more local youth. We will try to revive the forests by the global voluntary power! W: We will work at 2 different forests. In "NICE Forest" where we also often have weekend workcamps,we will cut and clear trees, make trails and cut grasses in an abandon rice field. We will also organize a weekend workcamp to involve local youth. Part of Greening Asia. S: Similar kind of activities about forest in each country and their netwroking. Bring some info.! A: Very simple renovated house in the first 7 days then very simple log house which was made by the local people by themselves. SB! CV (cooking with firewood) L: 60 km south of Osaka, but full of nature near the workplace. T: Osaka LA: Exchange parties, local festival, experiencing Japanese cultures, etc. SR: Interest to protect nature and to exchange with people. Adaptable to enjoy simple life!

JapNice36-07 Unzen (Nagasaki) 03-Aug-07 to 16-Aug-07 KIDS/DISABLED/ELDE 13 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Unzen Social Welfare (a kind of half-governmental) Association since 94. The workcamp used to be "Minami-takaki (with the next town)", until we started only in Kunimi town independently, which is incorporated as Unzen city. The past workcamps were quite successful to encourage Summer Volunteer School (SVS) that are held for 3 days to promote volunteering and

international friendships with 100 kids aged 10-18, and also helping a local summer festival since 00. W: We will 1) work with the volunteer club of the 20 local girls and boys within the ages of 10 to 15 by such as helping for the elderly and disadvantaged people such as wheelchair users, etc., 2) care for elderly people at nursing-care facility and 3) work together with local volunteer groups. S: Current volunteer activities by kids in your country. Bring some info! A: Social Welfare Center where we also have day-care facility. SB! Mostly MP L: Small town, about 80 km east of Nagasaki, a very famous symbolic place against nuclear war. This

town is very famous for football in Japan. T: Fukuoka (3 hours by train/ ferry). From Osaka, 7 hours by bullet train or 13 hours by midnight bus. LA: Home stay for a few days, exchange parties, etc. SR: Motivation to work with them. If you can speak some or good Japanese, it will be good!

JapNice37-07 Kodomo-mura 3 (Oita) 03-Aug-07 to 20-Aug-07 KIDS 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized since 98 together with "KODOMO-Art" (KA) that was founded in 72. They run Summer Vacation Kids Program called " Kodomo-mura" (Kids Village = KV) with 30 kids aged 8-15 every year where they play, cook and live in the nature as they plan to grow their independence, sensitivity, group cooperation, and want to put global colors which grow understanding and passion toward different

cooperativeness and motivation are necessary! Specialist of games, songs, cooks & similar types of experience is very welcome. Motivation letter is needed!.

JapNice38-07 Namino (Kumamoto) 04-Aug-07 to 18-Aug-07 AGRI/FEST/KIDS 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a local group formed for this project by various people, such as local governmental staffs, craft man and farmers, since 98. The terrible religious Group "Oom", who caused a poison gas crime in Tokyo in 95, had try to live here BEFORE 95 though local people had been very against. Now, here is COMPLETELY SAFE, all of they have left away but the area is still damaged by a

bad image, so they want to revive an activated community by utilizing international workcamps!W: We will be divided into 4-5 groups, help local farmers such as cutting bushes and harvesting vegetable. We will prepare/ run/ clean the local summer festival. We will also join Kid's camp, which will be held in this village for few days.S: Activation of local communities by utilizing former school. Bring some info.!A: Walking Center (base for environmental education). SB! CV

L: Namino is a very beautiful village and in the center of Kyushu Island about 110km southeast of Fukuoka. It is located near the border with Oita and Kumamoto prefectures.T: Fukuoka (5 hours by train). From Osaka, 9 hours by bullet train or 13 hours by midnight bus.LA: Home stay, hiking on the mountain, hot spring, etc. SR: Interest in agriculture and the project of the workcamp.

JapNice41-07 Ikenohara (Aichi) 09-Aug-07 to 21-Aug-07 KIDS/SOCI/ENVI 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Newly organized together with Ikenohara Free School (IFS). IFS was founded in 01 to support children who cannot go to he schools by various kinds of difficulties such as Asperger syndrome, abused/ cheated, delinquency, etc. IFS holds classes every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for normal studies, arts and outdoor activities with counseling. They also run some seasonal events like a concert in the forest in April and would like to have international volunteers to run summer programs together!W: We will first have an orientation how to be with those children. Then, we will 1) take care of their forest and vegetable field and clean the beach, 2) run three summer camps for high school students (1 day & 2 days) and elementary/ junior high school students (2 days) and finally 3) clean the area. S: The future plan of IFS, similar kind of schools in each country. Bring some info.! A: School building and a house of the organizers. SB! CV L: Located in Tahara city in Atsumi Peninsula, south east of Nagoya. There are many vegetable farms in this area and the nearest city is Toyohashi (30 min. by train).

T: Nagoya (2 hours by train). From Tokyo, 3 hours by bullet train or 6 hours by midnight bus. LA: Exchange parties, sailing experience, study on the local culture, etc. SR: Very high motivation to work with youth in difficulties. You will need much patience, flexibility and physical/ mental toughness. Similar types of experience and Japanese speaking skill are welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice44-07 Ogata (Oita) 10-Aug-07 to 26-Aug-07 AGRI/FEST/KIDS 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a local group formed for this project by various people, such as local governmental staff, organic farmers and many local people since 02. Ogata is famous for the tulip and the population is 6,500. In spite of such wonderful natural heritages, the population has been decreased, especially children are very few, so the main problem of Ogata today is aging. We aim to

activate the area by workcamps.W: We will be divided into 3-4 groups, help local farmers such as cutting bushes and harvesting. vegetable. We will also join a kid's camp, which is held for few days and help to prepare, run and clean "the Kodai festival" that is a very traditional festival. S: Effective cases to activate depopulated areas in each country. Bring some info.!A: Public hall. SB! CV

L: Ogata is a very beautiful town. There is a big waterfall that is called "the Oriental Niadara falls". It is located near the border with Oita and Kumamoto prefectures.T: Fukuoka (5 hours by train & bus). From Osaka, 9 hours by bullet train or 13 hours by midnight bus.LA: Exchange program with local people, hot spring, etc.SR: Interest in nature, agriculture and the project of the workcamp.

JapNice45-07 Kurikoma 3 (Miyagi) 13-Aug-07 to 26-Aug-07 ENVI/KIDS/SOCI 4 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Kurikoma Plateau Nature School (KPNS) founded in 1996 since 06. KPNS reviews relations of humans and nature, and is offering the place where happier life can come. They provide various nature-oriented courses, eco-tour, kids programs and independence support of the student who has difficult background. They have the eco-village plan, and environment-friendly life is practiced there for sustainable society.W: We will do the various works needed in the KPNS and area such as farming and construction work.We will also join an outdoor kids camp organized by KPNS for few days. We will do various activities

with the youth in KPNS, who have problem such as withdrawals.S: Life of kids in each country and its activities. Bring some info.!P: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. A: Log cabin and tent. SB! CV L: Center of Tohoku area, north part of Japan. Kurikoma specified for the quasi national park can enjoy the beech wood and the alpine plant in all seasons. There is a snow of 2 meters in Feb & Mar. T: From Tokyo, about 3 hours by bullet train or around 9 hours by bus. Q: Motivation to actively work in the cold are and with youth! SR: Interest eco-village and the project of the workcamp.

JapNice46-07 Ogi (Niigata) 14-Aug-07 to 02-Sep-07 ENVI/FEST 6 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with "Morito", a local voluntary group in Sado Island since 01. They take care of the forest called "Furusato-no-mori Park" in Ogi town, the south part of the Island. It gives local people many opportunities to enjoy themselves in the forest at each season. Now, they are trying to focus on caring for the forest with local people. They expect youth and foreign volunteers to activate

the area mentally and physically. W: We will participate in the art festival called "Earth Celebration" and sell soba (Japanese noodle) with local people. Also, we will work in the school forests by such as cutting bushes and create recreation program for local kids to experience in local forest. S: Unique festivals in each country. Bring some info.! A: Tents. SB! CV. L: 300 km north-east of Tokyo. Sado Island is famous for gold and Japanese crested ibis. Ogi is in the southern part beside from the beach, so you can enjoy fishing and hot spring there! T: Tokyo (6 hours by bullet train and ferry from Naoetsu port) LA: Exchange parties, excursion, fishing, etc . SR: Some Japanese language skills since the camp language will be JAPANESE! Those who have experience to join nature programs with kids are welcome.

JapNice48-07 Hoshino (Fukuoka) 16-Aug-07 to 29-Aug-07 ENVI/KIDS/EDU 15 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a local group formed for this project by various groups such as a forestry cooperative, a local youth group etc. This village has got the 1st prize at the national contests for beautiful stars in the sky and for shelves of rice fields. In spite of such wonderful natural heritage, depopulation of especially youth are serious here as well as many other country sides in Japan. We aim

to help nature conservation and to activate the area by workcamps. W: We will work in the forests by such as cutting bushes. As we will contribute to nature

conservation in Hoshino with global voluntary power, our movement will eventually lead to a greener world. We will also visit schools to raise awareness to protect nature! Part of Greening Asia. S: Effective cases to activate depopulated areas in each country. Bring some info.! A: A community center. SB! CV. L: Small village surrounded by mountains, about 50 km southeast of Fukuoka. There was a national Summit (conference) for protecting beautiful shelves of rice fields in 2000. T: Fukuoka (2 hours by train & car). From Osaka, 6 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Home stay, watching stars, exchange parties, etc. SR: Interest to protect nature and to exchange with people. Adaptable to enjoy simple life!

JapNice47-07 Kamakura (Kanagawa) 16-Aug-07 to 29-Aug-07 KIDS/SOCI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with an orphanage, Kamakura Children Home (KCH) and Child Maltreatment Prevention Network (CMPN) since 04. Child abuse is one of the biggest social problems in Japan. Over 30,000 cases were consulted in 2006 while it was 5,000 in 1997 partly because people are more aware of this problem. Governments & specialized NGOs are trying to solve it, but still far and NICE

runs a special team for this issue since Apr. 05 including weekend workcamps with KCH every month. W: We will work in KCH for 6 days to prepare/ run/ clean up their bon dance festival and do some other things like farming/ playing/ studying with the kids many of who are ex. abused kids. We'll also run a weekend workcamp only for families, so it can create even a bit power to prevent such tragedies. S: Child abuse situation and activities in each country and global cooperation. Bring some info.! A: House that a local person kindly offer and for one night, a camping site. SB! CV. L: 30 km from Yokohama. Kamakura is an old capital city of Japan in the 13th-15th centuries and has a lot of attraction like old temples, green hills and a beach. T: Tokyo (60 min by slow train). LA: Exchange parties, one night home stay, excursions, etc. SR: Very big motivation to work for this issue even after the project is necessary as well as flexibility and creativity. Experience to work for this issue professionally & to run kids camps and skills of performance (music, play, etc.) are very welcome! Motivation letter is needed!.

JapNice49-07 Fuji (Shizuoka) 17-Aug-07 to 31-Aug-07 ENVI/AGRI 20 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Chuo National Youth House (CNYH) since 05. CNYH is a social education facility, which aims to educate youth through a variety of group activities, experiences and study. It is located in the foot in Mt. Fuji that has been a popular tourism spot for a long time ago. However, a beautiful virgin forest that exists widely in Mt. Fuji has been lost by garbage that the tourist leaves

and the illegal disposal. We will activate this project as a fresh wind. W: We will do cleaning activity of Mt. Fuji with a local group that consists of 30 university students and local motivate people and construct volunteer House to promote voluntary activities. We will also help local farmers near the workcamp site.

S: The future plan of beautiful mountains in the world and their networking. Bring some info.! A: Volunteer House. SB! CV. L: Mt. Fuji is 3,776m high and is the highest mountain in Japan situated at the border of southeastern. Yamanashi and Shizuoka. It is the world famous symbol of Japan. T: Tokyo (90 min by bullet train or 3 hours by slow train). LA: Mt.Fuji climbing, exchange parties, sports, etc.

SR: Motivation to actively work and with local people!

JapCiee05-07 OBUSE, NAGANO 19-Aug-07 to 27-Sep-07 CULT/RENO 5 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALIZED! Background:The Local sponsor, Nagano International Friendship Club (NIFC) established in 1968, is composed of regular members and supporting members as an incorporated association in Nagano prefecture. The NIFC has been promoting exchange activities to bring up the sense of cultural understanding among younger generation in order to cope with better international communication in Nagano. The NIFC is offering various programs such as home-stay, language course, or voluntary activities. The NIFC supported NAGANO Olympic game in 1998 by sending many volunteers. Obuse branch consists of 10 members, other local organizations, and many volunteers. Work: There will be various kinds of works. Volunteers will give local facilities their hands for weeding, clean up and put flower beds in a good condition etc. Volunteers will also have opportunities not only to visit local primary and secondary schools but also to have a party for exchanging their cultures. Be ready to introduce your country and your local cuisine. Volunteers are required to ride a bike for transportation and to bring work clothes. The host organization, NIFC Obuse, will welcome volunteers who are interested in cultural exchange between volunteers and locals. Motivation letter will be necessary for this project. Volunteers need to bring some money (about \10,000) for a party and transportation. Accommodation: Each volunteer will be accommodated in the local family house where the family is very interested in hosting experience and individual cultural exchange. There would be a chance

to stay more than one family during the camp. Volunteers should expect there are some house rules at each family. Please note that volunteer may stay at a homestay for a week of 2 and a building for the other week in case that the number of volunteers will be more than 5. Location: Obuse is a small town living 12, 000 people. Obuse is famous as the center of Japanese traditional culture such as Haiku, Bonsai, and especially for well-known "Ukiyoe" painter, Katsushika Hokusai (1760`1849 ). The 3rd International Hokusai conference was held in Obuse (1st and 2nd were held in University of Venice, Italy). There is also a hot spring in the town so volunteers will have a chance to use it. Obuse Station is located about 1/2 hour by train from Nagano where you can access by Shinkansen, bullet train from Tokyo in 1and 1/2hours.

JapCiee03-07 KENBUCHI, HOKKAIDO 20-Aug-07 to 31-Aug-07 MENT/ART/AGRI 15 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALZIED! Background: The local sponsor, Kenbuchi Nishihara Gakuen is a school for mentally challenged people founded in 1980 as "a place where everyone gets together". This school has several department such as processing agricultural products, ceramic art, woodwork, textile manufacturer, agriculture and so on in order to support those people to have better commitment for society. Work: Each volunteer will be assigned to workshops such as woodwork, handicrafts, and textile manufacturer. Volunteers will help the school staffs in various duties and work with mentally challenged people from 18 to 75 years old. Some Japanese skills will be very helpful since the Japanese project leader does not always work with the volunteers. Volunteers are also expected to have strong interests in Japanese cultures and welfares. Bringing some items related to each participants country is fully encouraged for cultural activities. A Motivation letter will be welcomed for application. Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in the guesthouse which is furnished with a bed in each room. Also it has a shared kitchen, a washer, a telephone and a shower room in the building. Internet access is available in the main office. Meals are provided 3 times a day at no cost however volunteers are welcomed to use the kitchen to cook by themselves. Participants are encouraged to bring sweat shirts since the weather can be cold in the morning and night. Location: Hokkaido, where the town of Kenbuchi is located, is the biggest and northernmost prefecture in Japan. It is also known as the 21st largest island in the world with abundant of natures and a number of national parks. Hokkaido attracts millions of tourists from other regions in Japan every year not only by the vast wilderness the island possesses but also by its breezy, dry climate in summer and the mountain ranges covered by beautiful crystal powder in winter. Kenbuchi is a small town with the population of 4000 located in north central part of the prefecture. This place has wonderful natures for outdoor activities, and is also famous for Lavender flower fields. The nearest airport is Chitose, and from there it roughly takes 1 hour to get to the town by public transportation. Volunteers may fly over there via either Narita or Kansai International Airport. Direct flights from Korea to Chitose are also available.

JapNice53-07 Satsuma (Kagoshima) 23-Aug-07 to 06-Sep-07 ENVI/SOCI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Newly organized together with Eco Link Association (ELA). ELA wants to create a sustainable society through environmental preservation and achieving harmonious coexistence of nature and humans. They manage a forest equestrian club by utilizing the advantages of rich nature. They have a horse-riding classroom for various people such as local kids and disadvantage people. They want to

activate this town by using this facility, so we will try to give our global voluntary power! W: We will do the various works needed in the ELA and area such as making nature trail and construction work. We will also do some forest work such as cutting trees, cutting branches as well as support the horse-riding classroom for disadvantage people. Part of Greening Asia. S: Local participation to protect nature and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! A: Local house and pension. SB! CV.

L: South part of Kyushu island with rich nature. People are cheerful and many man like to drink sake!! T: Fukuoka (3 hours by train). From Osaka, 6 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc. SR: Interest to protect nature and to exchange with people.

JapNice55-07 Wazuka (Kyoto) 24-Aug-07 to 08-Sep-07 AGRI/FEST/RENO 14 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a society for the study of producing organic Japanese tea in Wazuka since 01. They are farmers some of who produce completely organic ones while the others do partly, but want to activate this area by tea in the future. The situation of organic farming in Japan is still difficult, so we will understand tea, help them and try to involve more local people! This year, we will

start making a tea park that might become a symbol of Wazuka in the future.

W: We will organize a big one day event which will involve local people in their redevelopment movement. We will also help their farming separated into some farm houses and work to revive the abandoned tea gardens. S: Proposal to the future plan of Wazuka and tea garden. Bring some idea!A: Comfortable public house. SB! CV. L: The most southern part of Kyoto, where is near the center of Kyoto and Nara which both are very historical and beautiful places. You should come here to see a lot of beautiful tea gardens!! T: Osaka (2 hours by train). From Tokyo, 3 hours by bullet train or 9 hours by midnight bus. LA: Sports, exchange parties, school visiting, Japanese tea ceremony, excursion, tea guessing game, etc. SR: We aim to learn and tell about Wazeka tea and activate the area by tea. To be flexible/ adaptable.

JapNice54-07 Shiojiri (Nagano) 24-Aug-07 to 08-Sep-07 KIDS/EDU 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Educational Committee of Shiojiri city government since 06. The staff of the Committee has joined some workcamps and is an active member of NICE. The elementary schools in this city hold some classes for simple English conversation, but the children have rare opportunities to exchange with foreigners, especially non-native speakers of English. Also, we aim to introduce

cultural diversity of the world as well as children's life in each country. W: We will visit and organize the programs in 7-10 elementary schools (mostly, one day for each school) like introducing each culture, children's life, games/ music/ dance/ craft/ cooking, social issues, etc. We may be often spilt into some groups though we will do it sometimes all together. S: Education in each country and future cooperation like Sister Schools Project. Bring some info.! A: Public building. SB! CV

L: Center in Nagano prefecture(north west of Tokyo)! High land surrounded by Japan Alps mountains and producing many kinds of fruits such as apple, grape, pear. Not so hot in summer. T: Tokyo (3-4 hours by highway bus). LA: Exchange parties, sports, etc. SR: Strong motivation in education and those who likes kids very much.

JapCiee04-07 KUNIMI, YAMANASHI 27-Aug-07 to 07-Sep-07 MENT/CULT 2 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

DATES ARE NOT FINALIZED! Background: Local sponsor, Kunimi-En is a school for mentally challenged people founded in 1996 as "a big home for mutual help". The main aim of this school is to supply the independent living space for mentally handicapped people regarding them as individuals to live much comfortable and liberal as they are in their own home. All staffs are trying to focus on not only to enrich the services they are providing in the school but also to introduce their activity concerning welfare programs to local people. Work: Each volunteer will help people both inside and outside of the school. Besides helping daily routine such as cleaning and their own duties, volunteers will be expected to take part in social activities mentioned above to share their opinions on Japanese welfare or their impression on what they have been experiencing both in Japan and their own countries. Volunteers and residents will be working together on some activities such as drawing, gardening etc. There also will have opportunity to introduce your country and cook the dishes and of your own country. Bring something symbolized your country and the recipe!! Volunteers should be kind to handicapped people, be interested in working with them, and willing to do what is needed. Basic Japanese conversation skills will be very helpful to enjoy this project. A motivation letter is required for application. Accommodation: Volunteers will stay at the school and also be accommodated in a ryokan(Japanese style hotel) near Kunimi-En. Home-stay will be arranged as well. At Kunimi-en they will provide 2 meals a day (lunch and dinner) but volunteers need to buy breakfast by themselves. The facility has beds, a washer and a shared bathroom. It also has an internet access and a telephone for international call. Location: Kunimi-En is located about half an hour by train from Kofu city in Yamanashi prefecture. At school, you can see the Japanese highest & sacred Mt. Fuji forward and the Japan south Alps backward. This place is also famous for a rapid Fuji river and its landscape depicted in famous Japanese Traditional water painting "Ukiyoe" by Katsushika Hokusai (1760`1849). Also, Pacific Ocean is only 1.5 hour away by driving.

JapNice56-07 Souryo (Hiroshima) 30-Aug-07 to 11-Sep-07 ENVI/CULT/ELD 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with a local group formed for this project. There were 80 houses but now just 20 houses in this area because of dam construction. The population is 50, half of who are over 65 years old. There is no elementary student. There were youth and normal workcamps before where the vols.

made wood chairs and big wood art as a symbol of that park. That park was made by many people little by little and they are making the Herb Park and café to let more people visit this town from urban area. W: We will help to cut grasses with cutting machine to protect plants of rare species in this area and to help elderly people who have no energy to work. We will also make small art works of animals and selling them at a flea market. We aim to activate the area by the workcamps.

S: Idea of wood art works. Bring some info.! A: Community center. SB! CV

L: North part of Hiroshima, very beautiful view. There are no shops in this area.

T: Osaka. From Tokyo, around 6 hours by bullet train or around 12 hours by bus.

LA: Exchange party, home stay, etc. SR: You need to be creative and interested in art and woodwork.

JapNice57-07 Tokyo-ko (Tokyo) 31-Aug-07 to 14-Sep-07 ENVI 12 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Green Volunteers of Tokyo Port (GVTP), since 98. Because construction plan was delayed, a reclaimed land became one of valuable natural place in Tokyo Bay with some ponds and many plants, so various kinds of birds gather there. It became a park in 1989 and GVTP has been improving ecological conditions and guide visitors to promote ecological awareness. NICE is working with them very successfully by international and weekend workcamps!

W: We will mainly remove mud from the pond, so their functions can be more active and more fish/ plants/ insects can live there. This work needs to be done in a short time by many volunteers that cannot be done only by the members of GVTP most of who have their jobs. Part of Greening Asia. S:Global environment and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! A: Office building in the pack. SB! CV L: Near Haneda (not Narita!) Airport in the central part of Tokyo. Though the park was originally artificial nature, has become valuable place for many birds and plants!

T: Tokyo LA: Exchange parties with GVTV members (maybe, barbeque!), excursions, etc. SR: Motivation to work hard for nature and with physically disadvantaged. Similar experience is welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice60-07 Nabari 2 (Mie) 01-Sep-07 to 15-Sep-07 ENVI 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with "Akame no Mori wo Mamoru kai" (Group to protect forests in Akame), a local environmental NPO since 99. Being located near from both big cities of Osaka and Nagoya, there were some plans of a golf link and disposing industrial garbage and local people have stopped them by "Woods Trust" movement. They formed this group in 1996 to collect donations to buy and protect lands, to own a pension to enjoy nature, to maintain forests, to create a pond for dragonflies, etc. The national copse meeting was held in summer. W: We will do various works to take care of the forest such as cutting trees, cutting branches, maintain the footpath, etc. Main work of this year is fixing a hiking way near the pond for dragonflies. Physically hard. Part of Greening Asia. S: Local participation to protect nature and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! P: Excursion, exchange parties, Visiting schools, communication with elderly people of eco-resort, A: The pension named "Eco Resort Akame". CV! L: About 60 km east of Osaka. There are famous falls nearby many hikers visit. The climate in this season is quite cold, so don't forget to bring warm clothes. T: Osaka or Nagoya (1 hour by train from both). Q: Interest in nature conservation and Kids activities. LA: Visiting schools, excursions, exchange parties, international games, etc. SR: Interested in nature conservation.

JapNice63-07 Shintoku (Hokkaido) 05-Sep-07 to 18-Sep-07 AGRI/ENVI/CONS 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Kyodo Gakusha since 98, a cooperative community where people with various backgrounds such as mentally disadvantaged, people who are tired of city life, who wants to learn farming or just want to live in the nature. They have five communities in Tokyo, Nagano and Hokkaido and grow animals and vegetables in ecological, organic way with utilizing bacterium. Their cheese got the 1st prize in the global contest! We will encourage their practice and share the spirit. W: We will maintain a forest trail and a camping site and help construction of men's dormitory with the supervision of the specialists. They need us since they are too busy for daily works. We will also work in vegetable and Japanese noodle fields (taking weeds, planting and harvesting). S: Similar types of communities in each country and networking. Bring some info.! A: The community (female and male are separated). CV together with the people. SB! L: Agricultural country side, 120 km east of Sapporo. -20 degree in winter and 20 in summer. T: Sapporo (2 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 13 hours by bullet train or 32 hours by ship. LA: School visit, foot ball with local teams, exchange parties, etc.

SR: Interest and motivation to work and live in this type of community. Respect to their life. They also recruit volunteers for LAMP (Long And Middle term voluntary Programs).

JapNice62-07 Onuma (Hokkaido) 07-Sep-07 to 16-Sep-07 ENVI 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Onuma Milestone 22, a new local NGO made by President of Fishermen's Cooperative and Director of international exchange association since 04. Though Onuma lake has been a popular tourism spot for a long time because of its beautiful scenery, it has been polluted by over use of agricultural chemicals in cattle farming and erosion from abandoned forests with non-native trees. President of Cooperative has bought a forest and wants to revive it to original nature with native trees! W: We will mainly cut alien trees that disturb growth of other plants and animals. We will also put some stones along the bank of a few islands in the lake to protect from the waves made by motor boats

for tourism as well as check the pollution with some specialists. Part of Greening Asia. S: 100 years plan of the forests and sustainable town planning. Bring some info.! A: Cabin. SB! CV. L: South of Hokkaido island, in a national park near Hakodate city which is famous for romantic view in the night, especially for sweet couples! T: Sapporo (3 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 10 hours by bullet train or 30 hours by ship. LA: Excursion, exchange parties, one night home-stay, school visit, sports, etc. SR: Motivation to actively work in the forests and with local people! There will be also a 3 months. workcamp in 21 Jul.-15 Oct. with 4 volunteers who will join this one.

JapNice65-07 Minami-Uonuma (Niigata) 12-Sep-07 to 23-Sep-07 ENVI/KIDS/EDU 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Japan National Trust since 95. JNT was founded in 1968 and buys lands to protect nature and cultural heritage such as old temples and trains, beautiful beaches, etc. It has been conserving Mt. Makihata (1,967m) for 30 years where wild life & landscapes have been damaged by tourists though still very beautiful. We have activated this project as a fresh wind (e.g. some local climbers was surprise to see foreign volunteers' working and joined cleaning.)

W: We will maintain natural trails, revive ponds, collect seeds, etc. on Mt. Makihata. Part of Greening Asia. We will also visit schools to raise awareness and actions for the local kids to protect nature in their own area and work with the mentally disadvantaged one day. S: Protection of mountains in each country and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! A: Tents or a mountain hut in the 1st week and a community center in the 2nd. CV. SB! L: Mountainous, agricultural town about 170 km north of Tokyo. Famous for the best sake and rice! The top you stay in the 1st week is a kind of paradise with millions of stars! T: Tokyo (2 hours by bullet train or 4 hours by slow train). LA: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. SR: You need to be physically tough and also to like kids.

JapNice67-07 Hikawa (Kumamoto) 15-Sep-07 to 29-Sep-07 ENVI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Newly organized together with Satoyama Club Dongorosu (SCD). Though 70% of Japanese lands are forests, huge forests are wasted since imported wood is much cheaper. Once we take care of forests, it's better to take care of it for various ecology and keeping water than just to leave it. And the Hikawa town is getting depopulation, they expect our participation and also to involve more local. We

will try to revive it in the global voluntary power! W: We will do various works to take care of the forest such as cutting trees, cutting branches, maintain the footpath, etc. Physically hard. As we will contribute to the nature conservation with global voluntary power, our movement will eventually lead to a greener world. Part of Greening Asia. S: Local participation to protect nature and Greening Asia. Bring some info.! A: Local house. SB! CV. L: South west in Kyushu island. People are cheerful and many of man like to drink sake!! T: Fukuoka (3 hours by train). From Osaka, 6 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Excursion, exchange parties, etc.SR: Interest to protect nature and to exchange with people.

JapNice27-07 Kuromatsunai (Hokkaido) 23-Sep-07 to 16-Aug-07 KIDS 6 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Buna-no-mori Shizen Gakko (nature school with beech forests) since 03. BSG was started in 1998 to promote quality and quantity of ecological education for kids and run various kinds of kids programs. They have a summer vacation program in 27/07-15/08 with about 20-25 kids aged 8-15 where they enjoy canoe, playing in the coast and river, camping, etc. and want to

put global colors which should grow understanding and passion to different cultures in those kids. W: We will help to run this summer program by playing with kids, running cultural programs such as teaching your dance, songs, arts, sports, games, cooking, etc. and helping house works such as cleaning and cooking with professional staffs and other vols. You won't have much free time. S: Life of kids in each country to be introduced to the kids there. Bring some info.! A: Old school (you will sleep in the same rooms with the kids by turns). SB! CV L: South west of Hokkaido island. Full of beautiful nature with national reserve of beech forests,

a river and wetland. Main industry is cattle farming. T: Sapporo (2 hours by express train). From Tokyo, 13 hours by bullet train or 32 hours by ship.

LA: Exchange parties, excursion, etc. SR: High motivation to work with kids all day and to run outdoor activities even in rain. Similar types of experience and Japanese speaking skill are welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice68-07 Iwami Ginzan (Shimane) 23-Sep-07 to 08-Oct-07 ENVI 10 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Newly organized together with Organization of Green and Water (OGW) that was founded in 92 in order to appeal about the importance of a prairie and forest. Their working field is Iwami Ginzann that is to be registered into a world heritage in July. They will manage National copse annual conference there. It is a place for interchange and technical exchange of people which are carrying out research

and activity about the copse. W: We will help to manage National copse annual conference like preparation, guidance of it and play the bamboo instrument with kids. We will also do various works to take care of the forest such as

cutting bamboos and grasses etc. Physically hard. Part of Greening Asia.

S: To protect nature and Greening Asia. Bring some info. A: National Mikame youth's house. SBN. MP. L: About 250 km northwest of Osaka. Near Japan-sea.

T: Osaka (9 hours by train). From Tokyo, 6 hours by bullet train or 12 hours by midnight bus. LA: Visiting school, exchange parties, home stay. SR: Interested in nature conservation and if you can speak some Japanese, it will be good!

JapNice69-07 Maki 3 Nagano 17-Oct-07 to 30-Oct-07 AGRI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00

Organized together with Maki Farm of Kyodo Gakusha (MFKG) since 00. For the background of Kyodo Gakusha, please see NICE/63 Shintoku! This isolated area used to have 100 inhabitants, but people left there since there is no access of transportation and we have to walk 4 km in the mountains. It once became an abandon village in 1970s, but now, around 10 people of the farm live there. Because of the great works volunteers have done, they'd like to host 3 workcamps this year! W: We will help their organic farm by cutting thatch, threshing rice, selecting beans, taking care of goats and chicken and also carry the things from the town, renovate the trails, help their house works, etc. Be ready to work for quite a long time (05:30-18:00 with some brakes) and hard. S: Similar type of communities in each country and their networking. Bring some info.! A: Building for volunteers in the farm. CV. SB! There are some gas, electricity and water! L: Very isolated, but beautiful village near "Japanese Northern Alps". About 900 meters asl. There are something remained here that most of Japanese areas have lost in modernization. T: From Tokyo, 4 hours by express train or 8-10 hours by bus and train. LA: Visit to the elementary school, sports, meeting with local people, etc. SR: Physically strength. Agricultural or architectural skills are welcome! Motivation letter is needed!

JapNice70-07 Shirakami 4 (Aomori) 25-Oct-07 to 07-Nov-07 ENVI 8 V. Ages 18+ Fee:$250.00