WWOOF Japan

WWOOF Japan Here We Come!
(Willing Workers On Organic Farms)

Three Hiedeman's are getting ready for our WWOOFing experience in Japan.  We leave on June 15th, 2015 and have many things to accomplish before we can sit on that airplane.  I found WWOOF Japan after many months of looking for a program where the girls and I could work alongside others internationally.  We will be working about six hours a day in exchange for our room and board.  I joined WWOOF Japan and then had access to numerous hosts throughout Japan.  During previous visits to Japan, I fell in love with northern Japan on the main island.  I immediately emailed the few hosts in that area to inquire about them hosting three people.  I was turned down and started looking in Hokkaido, Japan.  I gave a few details and asked many hosts if they would like to host us for some time this summer.  I had an overwhelming response in that many people were willing to host all three of us!  I initially intended to stay in one place for a month but later decided that three places would be a good mix for us.  Host #1 is near Niseko Village and it is an old school building turned into an inn near a famous ski resort.  We will be there two weeks and it is their off season.  Host #2 is a farm and they have many chickens for eggs.  We will be there one week and I assume collecting eggs.  Host #3 is a farm near the ocean and we will be there for one week.  We hope to learn many things about their businesses.  Stay tuned for further details and updates.
Hope you enjoy our musings.
-Nicole/Nicki

An excerpt from WWOOF Japan website:
When visiting Hosts, you are neither a guest nor a worker, but a part of the Host's place - like friends and family members are. Based on the rhythms you see at the Host's place you'll be thinking about what you can do to help-out, and what you can learn and experience in doing so. The Host will give the same back to you. Living chores are often a part of the day: ie., preparing meals and cleaning up.  Open your heart.  Listen to your friends' instructions.  If misunderstanding occurs, tell the Host of your needs directly and sincerely.