Mother Nature Environmental Conservation Camp and Temple Stay on Sado Island, Japan
Highlights
- Live on temple grounds and be part of an innovative partnership
- Experience rural Japanese culture and lifestyle that is rarely seen by tourists
- Participate in conservation efforts for the Japanese Crested Ibis
- Fight the problems of a declining population on the Japanese countryside
- Contribute to the cultural heritage of Sado Island
Overview
Explore a side of Japan rarely seen by tourists while supporting the local community of rural Japan. At our Mother Nature Environmental Conservation Camp on Sado Island, you'll work alongside the monk and his wife at the historic Chokokuji Temple, assisting with daily maintenance and the preparation of tourist offerings. But even more, you will help the local community through various activities, such as:
● Japanese Crested Ibis: You will work on habitat restoration for the Japanese crested ibis. This mainly involves working in rice fields but also regular visits to the Breeding and Research Center and the Visitor Park. The Japanese crested ibis was driven to the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and the use of chemical pesticides in industrial agriculture that destroyed its food sources. However, a successful conservation program has since reintroduced the ibises to the wild on Sado Island. You can be a part of this continious effort!
● Beach Cleanups: You will assist with weekly beach cleanups to maintain the beauty of local beaches and prevent waste from returning to the sea.
● Environmental Education: You will support environmental education on Sado Island by visiting local schools and playing with the children.
Other engaging activities include bamboo crafting, community work with locals, participating in cultural workshops, learning about wild herbs and organic farming, supporting pollinators, but also just enjoying your free-time on this beautiful island.
Our package is a mix of hands-on conservation and cultural immersion. This is a chance to give back, learn new skills, and connect deeply with a community dedicated to a sustainable future. It is a transformative journey that combines meaningful work with an unforgettable cultural experience, all while exploring the beautiful nature and culture of Sado Island.
- Participation in all program activities
- Accommodation in a fully furnished 4-person tent (can be upgraded to a 2-person or single tent)
- Full board (3 meals per day) and unlimited drinking water, coffee, and tea
- Orientation and introduction to project activities
- Transport for program activities on Sado Island
- Personal consultation and preparation before your arrival
- Access to an online platform with preparation materials, including intercultural preparation
- Online group preparation session with other participants
- 24-hour emergency availability of the local support team
- CO2 compensation for your long-haul flight
- Providing written confirmations and certificates for financial or academic institutions
- Travel to/from Sado Island (we can assist)
- Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Vaccinations
- Weekend leisure activities