1. Summary

Revitalizing a Pilgrimage Town Through Sudachi and International Exchange!

2. Background

This project is actively working for SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDGs 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), organized together with the local group since 2019. Known as a town along the Shikoku Ohenro Pilgrimage route, this village welcomes pilgrims who pass through on their way to Kakurin-ji Temple, the 20th of the 88 temples. However, due to depopulation and an aging society, the number of sudachi farmers has been decreasing, and passing on local traditions and resources has become a challenge. The host, originally from Oi, returned to his hometown and hopes that by gathering international volunteers through sudachi farming, they can help create a more attractive rural lifestyle for young people. They also organize events to promote international understanding for children and adults who have few opportunities to experience different cultures.

3. Work

1) Support for agricultural activities to revitalize the Sudachi production area. Aug. to Sep. is the busiest season for sudachi harvesting
2) International cultural exchange activities with the few children in the community.
3) Cleaning vacant houses, cleaning up shrines

4. Accommodation

Home staying at local farmhouses. All meals will be cooked by volunteers by turns. Sleeping bag is NOT necessary.

5. Study theme

Finding ways for sustainability of a depopulated village, Pass down the "osettai" culture to the next generation, Helping senior citizens to host foreigners

6. Other activities

From 8/12-15, participants will have the opportunity to watch Awa Odori, Tokushima’s largest traditional dance festival

7. Location

Oi-town, Anan city, Tokushima pref.

8. Terminal

The nearest int'l airport is Kansai (Osaka). From Osaka to the meeting point in Tokushima, it takes 3 hours by highway bus. Volunteers are recommended to arrive at Japan by the day before the workcamp starts and leave Japan from the day after the end. Volunteers need to arrive at the meeting point at 15:00 on 1st day (then, take a local train to the campsite about 1h) and can leave project site around noon on the last day.

9. Requirement

Positive attitude, a willingness to work hard and communicate with local people!

10. Participation fee

9,000 JPY (50 EUR by the rate on 2026 Feb. 14) of "NICE Volunteers" fee need to be paid in advance either by Card or PayPal. This is used for the project preparation/ coordination such as the transportation of the staff/ camp leaders, visa invitation cost, publications, etc. while the meals and the accommodation are provided by the local host by free (so, your fee is not used for those things!).

11. Language

English (Japanese is also welcomed!)

12. Other

Follow the Oi Workcamp Instagram(@ooi_workcamp) to see the volunteers’ daily activities.