generic avatar 2
generic avatar 3
generic avatar 4

38,369+ dreams turned into reality

global work and travel logo

Our trips to Japan

New
Volunteer
Japan

Cat Shelter in Kyoto

18-70 y/o
2 weeks
Ever dreamed of living in a Studio Ghibli film – with cats? Then volunteering at a cat shelter in Kyoto is the perfect trip for you.  Kyoto – the imperial capital of Japan for over 1000 years – is like stepping into a movie set.  The ancient architecture is preserved. Geishas glide through quiet streets. And the ultra-modern pace of contemporary Japan is dialed down a couple notches.  Imagine being surrounded by traditional wooden townhouses, Zen gardens, and lantern-lit streets at night. Picture yourself weaving through artisan studios, traditional natural dye shops, and that wabi-sabi aesthetic brought to life.  This is the charm of Kyoto – the modern day aesthetic capital of Japan.  On this done-for-you volunteer trip, you’ll get everything you need to volunteer in Kyoto, Japan, including:   Volunteer project placement – You’ll get placed in our pre-approved cat shelter with our partner in Kyoto, Japan.  Comfortable accommodation – You get dormitory accommodation included for the duration of your stay. Or upgrade to a twin-room for extra privacy or a homestay for maximum cultural immersion.  Airport arrival assistance – Once you arrive, one of our team members will help you navigate public transport to get to your included accommodation (fares included) And much more! This trip is all about taking care of shelter cats while exploring one of Japan’s favourite cities. It’s making a difference to a cause you care about and an adventure rolled into one!  You’ll be volunteering at a cat shelter in the heart of Kyoto. You’ll be feeding cats, cleaning their enclosures, and you’ll even have a chance to observe some veterinarian procedures for more hands-on, practical experience.  But since your main responsibilities take place in the morning, you’ll have the entire afternoon to explore this incredible city.  And what an easy and rewarding city it is to explore. Kyoto is compact – which makes it easily walkable. The public transport system is efficient and widespread so you can explore any part of the city within an hour.  Kyoto offers some contrast to the neon chaos of modern day Japan. In many respects it feels like an ancient imperial capital – with an undercurrent of contemporary arts and culture incorporating the old with the new.  Even the foodie scene is unique. Seasonal dishes are steeped in tradition and served out of old coffee lounges, tiny eateries, or under the stars at a street market. You’ll discover hidden sake bars tucked into corners and hidden in plain sight all over this amazing city.  If you love cats and want to explore a slower-paced, culturally rich side of Japan – this is the trip for you.  When you go with Global, you get the full experience for a fraction of the hassle. We offer the complete package for volunteering in Kyoto, Japan.  Our team will help you with the essentials you need to start your new journey with a bang! Including, setting you up with our project partner, securing your accommodation, and a whole lot more. 

From $645


Travel to Japan

Japan is a country blessed with a fascinating history, an incredible over-the-top culture, amazing food, and a varied and beautiful landscape. There is nowhere else in the world like it which makes it such a “must visit” destination.

Key facts

  • Currency:Japanese Yen (JPY)
  • Population:127 million
  • National dish: Sushi
  • Bottle of beer: 650 JPY
  • Offical language:Japanese
  • Hello:Konichiwa
  • Capital city:Tokyo
  • Minimum wage:874 JPY/hour
  • Annual temperatures:5°C  - 26°C

Culture

Japanese culture is an eclectic mix of ancient traditional influence and super modern westernisation. Famed for their polite, punctual, friendly yet hard-working demeanours; Japanese people are incredibly welcoming and hospitable to tourists and guests.

Best time to visit

March - May is Japan’s famous cherry blossom season. The sun is coming out from winter and the country (and world famous plants) spring to life! The height of summer in Japan can get a bit warm, wet and humid. So cherry blossom season as well as the months of September - November are generally considered the best times to visit. Unless of course you’re visiting to see Japan's world famous ski slopes, which would mean November - March is where it’s at!


Best places to visit

Straight from the ‘gram

Travel inspiration

How to Get a Job in Spain as a Foreigner in 2026- The Complete Guide

Read more

How to Get a Job in New Zealand as a Foreigner in 2026 – The Complete Guide

Read more
Home
Japan