Sado Island, an island located in the eastern part of the Sea of Japan, flourishes from an abundance of diverse flora and rich aquatic resources. During this experience, travelers will have the opportunity to stay in a Buddhist temple and volunteer in wildlife and heritage conservation. Working in partnership with the local Sado government, this volunteer program primarily seeks to support environmental conservation activities while promoting the culture and nature of the island. The bulk of the group’s conservation efforts is directed towards protecting the crested ibis, a white-plumaged bird that is deeply and intimately rooted in Japanese culture and history. After the last wild crested ibis in Japan died in October 2003, Japan, in cooperation with the Chinese government, launched a reintroduction program on Sado Island in 2008, bringing the birds back into Japan from China and breeding them in captivity for release. During this experience, volunteers will collaborate with various environmental organizations, and Japanese universities that conduct conservation work and research. From monitoring the crested ibises to finding nests and counting eggs, volunteers can help out in every step of the process. Besides wildlife conservation, volunteers will also help cultivate the Ogura rice fields and preserve the ancient Chokokuji and Koninji temples. This minimum 1-week and maximum 12-week experience starts at $830 per person for 1 week and $4,680 per person for 12 weeks. Accomodation, food and 24/7 GoEco support are all included.
With a goal to inspire an excitement for volunteering around the world, GoEco makes it their mission to ensure that travelers get the opportunity to experience over 150 extraordinary communities around the globe. By acting as a gateway company, GoEco partners with diverse, local, and global organizations that specialize in volunteer travel experiences that create a captivating and inspiring trip for all participants. They hope that all travelers find meaning in their trips while leaving the host community with a passion for volunteerism and sharing their experiences. Starting at $X per person, this experience lasts over the course of X days. GoEco programs include a shared room in a volunteer house, 3 meals a day, and airport pickup and dropoff, and 24/7 GoEco travel guidance and emergency support.