Farm Work in Japan

Farm Work in Japan

For many Japanese, the quality and origin of their food is of high importance. At the same time, Japanese farmers are striving to produce agricultural produce of highest quality. So during your farm job in Japan you can learn a lot, have fun, and at the same time enjoy a healthy diet! No previous knowledge about farming is needed.

The farms include small family-run farms where you would stay with the farmer’s family, and also larger farms.

We will pre-arrange your farm job in Japan prior to your trip to Japan, which means you can start it right after your arrival to Japan. Alternatively you can stay with our partner organisation in Tokyo first, and head out to your farm job after a few weeks/months – it’s your choice!

Requirements

You must be able to get a Working Holiday visa – IEP will assist you with this!
You must have Japanese language skills at conversational level – Ask IEP about our language school options!
You are expected to be seriously interested and motivated to do farm work
- Once your placement is confirmed, cancellation is only on the basis of emergency situations as the farmer is counting on you to help with the season!
- Early mornings are a must on a farm, so you’ve got to have a good alarm clock!

What will you be doing on the farm?

Working with animals like horses, cows and chickens: Feeding, mucking out, cleaning machinery, milking, cleaning the animals, selling produce like eggs, milk, ice-cream etc.
Planting fruits and vegetables like pumpkins, potatoes, lettuces, leeks, tomato, strawberries, peaches, melons). Plant care, harvesting, processing and possibly selling produce locally.
Growing cut flowers and ornamental plants.
Seeding, growing and harvesting crops such as rice, millet, corn, and wheat.

Hours of work and pay rate

Farm jobs are remunerated at a range of 690-1500 JPY per hour. It is generally expected that you work up to 48hrs a week (6 days a week, 8hrs per day).

Accommodation on Farm Jobs

Accommodation and meals are included as part of your farm placement. The cost is subsidized and is deducted from your salary. The types of accommodation and meals will differ from farm to farm.

Accommodation can be with the farmer’s family, or at a separate farm staff accommodation
Rooms can be single or dorm style (typically tatami rooms where you would use a futon)
Farms will either provide cooked meals, or ingredients will be provided for you to cook yourself.

What does the farm jobs program cost?

You can add the farm jobs option to your Work and Travel Japan program for an additional EUR 200.

Can I choose where I work?

You can let us know your preferences and we will do our best to place you on a farm that matches your request. Placements are subject to availability so being a bit flexible is to your advantage!

Do I have to interview for the job?

Yes, you will have to interview for your job. Our partner organisation will coach you and provide advice you you can impress the farmers! The employer will let you know at the end of the interview whether or not you have been successful.

How long do I have to work on the farm?

You can say how long you would like to work for before the interviews – placements can be anywhere from 1 week to 1 year.