from 3,440€

Brilliant 4.7rating (37)

English Tutoring Associate

location
4 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Empower locals in Otaki village to gain confidence and fluency in English through our conversation afternoons.
  • Unite to transcend language barriers, embrace cultural exchange, and elevate the village's allure to global explorers.
  • Uncover the charm of Nagano, Japan, where ancient traditions merge with natural beauty to create an unforgettable destination that captivates the soul.
  • Explore the local culture and immerse yourself in the captivating surroundings of Otaki.

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
50+

About the program

Join our program in Otaki village, where you'll engage in conversations with locals, helping them gain confidence and practice English.

Our mission is to empower local residents in gaining confidence and honing their English speaking skills when communicating with foreigners. Although Japanese students study English in high school and excel in reading and writing, conversational fluency and pronunciation receive less emphasis. The ...

About the program

Our mission is to empower local residents in gaining confidence and honing their English speaking skills when communicating with foreigners. Although Japanese students study English in high school and excel in reading and writing, conversational fluency and pronunciation receive less emphasis. The key lies in providing ample opportunities for practice rather than acquiring new knowledge.

To facilitate this growth, we organize conversation afternoons where locals can join at their own convenience. These sessions go beyond mere language usage; they serve as a platform for individuals to become more comfortable interacting with foreigners. Moreover, it presents a remarkable opportunity for you to delve into their unique life experiences and rich cultural heritage.

The Otaki tourist map, now available in English, designates certain shops and hotels with a star symbol to indicate that the owners have some proficiency in English. However, navigating the village without Japanese language skills can still be challenging.

Pride also plays a role in this dynamic. Some hotels, rather than risk not providing perfect service due to the language barrier, may prefer to decline bookings from foreigners. Unfortunately, this hinders the village’s efforts to attract more international travelers to its picturesque surroundings.

To facilitate the village’s development, two simultaneous measures need to be taken:

1. Villagers and local business owners must become more accustomed to interacting with foreigners.
2. Locals need to gain confidence and practice in speaking English.

Japanese students study English in high school, but the current education system places greater emphasis on reading and writing rather than conversation. Thus, their lack of spoken English proficiency is not indicative of their overall knowledge or educational level. The crucial element missing is regular practice in speaking the language, which affects their comfort level in engaging in conversations.


Typical day

This program aims to provide a platform for locals to practice English on their own terms. Participants gather at the community house during afternoons and early evenings, where local students often visit to study, work, or simply socialize. It’s an opportunity for you to inquire about life in ...

Typical day

This program aims to provide a platform for locals to practice English on their own terms. Participants gather at the community house during afternoons and early evenings, where local students often visit to study, work, or simply socialize. It’s an opportunity for you to inquire about life in Japan and answer their questions about your home country. Please be patient and understanding, allowing them time to construct complete sentences. As the conversation progresses, their comprehension will improve, and more locals will be inspired to join in.

Remember, for individuals who rarely encounter foreigners, you represent more than just an opportunity to practice English. You serve as an ambassador of your home country and culture, shaping their perceptions of people from your nation or foreigners in general.

Depending on the season and weather, anticipate spending approximately 1-4 hours per day engaging in conversations. These interactions may take place at the community house or other locations in and around Otaki. Occasionally, the local kindergarten may invite you to participate in activities such as singing songs together to practice English pronunciation. In addition to honing your language skills, you will have the chance to explore the local culture and immerse yourself in the captivating surroundings of Otaki alongside other participants.


Free-time activities

  • Visit the Snow Monkeys: Take a trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park and observe the adorable Japanese macaques enjoying hot springs in the winter months.

  • Explore Matsumoto Castle: Marvel at the beauty of one of Japan's most stunning castles, known for its unique black exterior and impressive architecture.

  • Sk

Free-time activities

  • Visit the Snow Monkeys: Take a trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park and observe the adorable Japanese macaques enjoying hot springs in the winter months.

  • Explore Matsumoto Castle: Marvel at the beauty of one of Japan's most stunning castles, known for its unique black exterior and impressive architecture.

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Nagano is renowned for its excellent ski resorts, such as Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen, offering fantastic slopes for winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Explore Zenkoji Temple: Discover the ancient Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, and immerse yourself in its spiritual atmosphere.

  • Hike in Kamikochi: Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery and hiking trails in Kamikochi, a picturesque valley located in the Northern Japanese Alps.

  • Visit the Historic Town of Takayama: Explore the well-preserved streets of Takayama's old town, known for its traditional wooden houses, local crafts, and charming atmosphere.

  • Taste Local Cuisine: Indulge in Nagano's culinary delights, including Shinshu soba (buckwheat noodles), oyaki (stuffed dumplings), and local sake.

  • Explore the Snow Resorts: Experience the beauty of Nagano's winter wonderland by visiting the snow resorts, enjoying activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and snow tubing.

  • Discover the Alps: Take in the majestic beauty of the Japanese Alps by visiting Kamikochi, the Kiso Valley, or the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route.

  • Relax in Onsen: Unwind in one of Nagano's famous hot springs (onsen) and experience the soothing and rejuvenating effects of these natural mineral-rich baths.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (intermediate level) or English (fluently)

Education Requirements

at University level

Criminal Background Check

required

Required Documents

CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

Passion and enthusiasm for working with people, lots of energy and creativity – and not scared to get involved

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Global Nomadic

Project Fee includes:

  • food
  • accommodation
  • airport pickup
  • orientation
  • in-country support
  • project activities

Airport Pickup at Matsumoto Airport

Upon your arrival, a friendly project representative will warmly welcome you at the airport and accompany you to the project headquarters.

Accommodation

During your stay, you will have the option to experience authentic local hospitality by staying in a cozy Homestay or at our designated participant accommodation. For those seeking an adventurous twist, there may be opportunities to enjoy the incredible experience of camping in a tent during the warmer months. The accommodation is conveniently located just 10-25 minutes outside of the village, accessible by car.

Please note that at the Green House location near the restaurant and campsite, the toilet and shower facilities are separate from the sleeping accommodation. However, if you opt for the homestay at the house, you will have the convenience of an indoor toilet and shower. Additionally, you may encounter a friendly pet dog during your time at the Green House location, adding an extra touch of warmth and companionship to your stay.


Food & Beverages

All food is included! 

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport (MMJ) in Matsumoto. We assist you to find cheap flights to Japan. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Japan provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Japan you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Japan. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Project is on-going, and you can join at any time, depending upon availability. Placements start each Monday!
Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

4 weeks (min. stay) 3,440€
5 weeks 4,300€
6 weeks 5,160€
7 weeks 6,020€
9 weeks 7,740€
11 weeks 9,460€
24 weeks (max. stay) 20,640€
Average fees 860€/week

Program fees

860€ per week 4 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

4 - 24 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Global Nomadic during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

Global Nomadic

Brilliant 4.7 rating (37 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2009

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Jeremy

About the project

We believe real change can happen when people find life-enhancing opportunities.

Meet your organization

Who we are

Global Nomadic empowers positive change by connecting people with projects

Global Nomadic was founded in 2008 with one clear goal – to empower change by connecting people. We believe real change can only come about when people are able to find the right opportunities with the right organisations. Over the past years, we have grown to offer high-quality international internships in a wide range of professional fields, but our aim is still the same; connecting people with projects.

We provide aspiring young professionals with exactly what is needed to set them apart in the very competitive world we live in. We exist to help you further your career through educational international work experience placements, but also to help NGOs around the world carry out their community-building work, by connecting them with you. By working with local NGOs, charities, and communities you will gain excellent experience and valuable skills, aiding you to further your ambitions – whilst making a difference where it’s needed most.

This world is not a perfect place – and we don’t claim to be able to fix it. But what we can do is provide a bridge between you and the people who can. Our mission is to work towards a better and more stable world by connecting people with projects. We believe we work better together than apart. We believe travel and exposure to other cultures, beliefs and ways of life are the best ways to achieve this. We believe you can travel the world and travel your career.

What we do

We provide access to vetted, worthwhile international internships in a wide range of professional fields.

We work in a range of different fields from veterinary medicine and environmental conservation to journalism, public health, business development and education – matching you with reputable, worthwhile organisations around the world. Unlike many other volunteer organisations, we have personally visited and vetted our project partners, to ensure you a safe and worthwhile international experience.

We also choose to only work with partners whose projects contribute to their local community in a sustainable manner. We do not support, nor advocate orphanage tourism or irresponsible wildlife conservation projects. Our aim is to help our project partners focus on their core work by offering an easy way to find committed interns and volunteers to support their daily activities.

Our volunteers

Global Nomadic is a trusted community meeting space connecting people with NGO projects around the world.

We also offer helping you to source and organise the best flights, insurance, visas and all the many other things you will need before you reach your project destinations, including country guides, packing lists and much more! We want to make sure that you have the volunteering time of your life.

Global Nomadic personally visits all volunteer sites to ensure a quality experience for volunteers. You will receive support before, during and after your placement.

37 reviews · rating4.7

katalin csernai rating5

2024 at Nutrition Outreach Assistant

The programme was well organised . It is a very meaningful programme. Everyone was very friendly and supportive. I can warmly recommend it to anyone this experience ...
Kylie Jones rating5

2024 at Working at a Local Food Shop

This was our first volunteering experience and we absolutely loved it. The feeling of gratitude and humility at being able to assist a little bit is so rewarding. What an amazing team of kind and hardworking staff and volunteers, and the warm smiles and greetings we had from customers I will never ...
Enya Niedermeier rating4.8

2024 at Teaching and Sports Education

The Green Lion staff are some of the nicest people I have ever met. The other volunteers were so nice too and it was very easy to find likeminded people to hang out with. The program itself was amazing and also educational. Doing sport with the children was so fulfilling and everyone was polite and ...
Dominic Aeschlimann rating4.8

2024 at Construction & Renovation of Community Facilities

I have been two weeks in the project to help in diffrent stuff like painting and prepairing bricks. I enjoyed it a lot and the locals were so happy when they saw it. The stuff is lovley and the other voulenteers too. i would do it immediately ...
Beatriz Nicolau rating5

2023 at Whale & Dolphin Conservation in Italy

I had the privilege of participating in this program which I can only describe as the best experience of my life. Angelo, the driving force behind this initiative, is an incredible individual dedicated to making the world a better place. My week on board was nothing short of amazing, offering me a ...
Hannah Lühr rating4.4

2023 at Teaching Placement in Local Schools

I did the Programme for 4 weeks, starting with the introduction week. The introduction week, was an absolute blast, exploring different aspects and sights of Balinese culture. After that, the teaching Programme started, which was at least as good. The kids were very welcoming and even though ...

Location

Asia > Eastern Asia > Japan > Nagano

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