Japan Fast Facts Popular Types of Volunteer

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J

apan is a small archipelago nation comprised of thousands of islands. Due to its natural beauty and numerous attractions, it is a premier tourist destination in Asia. Even though Japan is now

a very industrialized and modern nation, it still has a rich ancient tradition, which remains to this very day. Regardless of its wealth, Japan still has many opportunities for volunteers to come to the nation and make a difference.

Japan Fast Facts •

Capital: Tokyo

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Population: 128 million

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Currency: Yen

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Poverty level: 16% (CIA World Factbook)

Popular Types of Volunteer Programs in Japan Orphanage Work: Japan has many opportunities for volunteers to work with children. Japan has many orphanages and thus opportunities for volunteers to work in them are plenty. As a volunteer, you will help out with administrative work, teach children English and various other subjects, and help organize activities for children.

Elderly Care: Japan has the highest proportion of aging individuals in the entire world. 23% of the population is over the age of 65. Thus, the nation has many elderly homes and there is a need for volunteers to help. As a volunteer, you will assist doctors in the medical care of the citizens and help organize and conduct activities for them.

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Medical Homes: Japan has homes for the physically disabled and there is a need for volunteers to help out. As a volunteer, you will work one on one with the residents and help doctors take care of them.

Volunteering Advice: Japan •

Volunteer Support: If you volunteer in Japan through a professional volunteer organization, they should have a support system in place where you can turn to for help and advice. Your home country's embassy or consulate can also be reached in Tokyo for further information and support.

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NGOs/Nonprofits: Japan is home to many nonprofit organizations. They are mostly located in large cities like Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Osaka. Visit Wango for a complete list of NGO's in Japan.

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How to Save Money While Volunteering: Japan is known for being one of the pricier nations in Asia, and it can especially get pricey if you're volunteering in a large city like Tokyo. In that case, try to stick to your budget by not eating at expensive restaurants and shopping at extravagant stores; the local options are great too!

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Health and Safety of Volunteers in Japan: As a volunteer in Japan, you aren't required to get any special immunizations. However, if you're traveling from November to April, you are highly recommended to be vaccinated for the Flu. For more information, visit MD Travel Health.

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Discover More of Japan on Go Overseas! More About Japan Reviewed Volunteer Programs in Japan Photos and Videos from Japan Culture and Language in Japan

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