In a recently published English version of the Otaki tourist map, some shops and hotels are marked with a star to indicate that the owners speak some English. However, navigating without Japanese language skills remains challenging. Pride plays a significant role here. Hotels might refuse a foreigner’s booking rather than risk providing imperfect service due to the language barrier, which hampers the village’s efforts to attract more foreign travellers to its picturesque surroundings.

To help the village develop, two simultaneous measures are needed:

• Villagers and local business owners need to become accustomed to interacting with foreigners.
• Locals need to gain more confidence and practice in speaking English.

While Japanese students study English in primary school, the current education system emphasizes reading and writing over conversation. Therefore, if locals don’t speak English with you, it doesn’t mean they lack knowledge or education; they simply lack speaking practice. Without this practice, Japanese people often feel uncomfortable speaking English.

This program aims to provide locals with a platform to practice English on their own terms. Participants are available at the community house in the afternoons and early evenings. Local students often visit to study, work, or hang out for a few hours. This is your opportunity to ask them about life in Japan and answer their questions about your home country. Be patient and understanding if it takes them a while to form complete sentences. The more you converse, the better they will understand you, and the more they will enjoy talking to you, encouraging others to join.

Otaki village, a destination for local and foreign tourists, requires locals who interact with visitors to improve their conversational skills. You will meet and engage with them to help enhance their language abilities. Remember, for people who rarely encounter foreigners, you are more than just an English practice partner. You are an ambassador of your home country and culture. The impression you leave will shape their view of your compatriots and foreigners in general.

Depending on the season and weather, expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours a day in conversation. Lesson planning might take up to 1 or 2 hours per day. This could occur at the community house or other locations in and around Otaki. Occasionally, the local primary school may invite you to practice English pronunciation through activities like singing songs or playing games.

In addition to practicing English, you will join other participants in Otaki to learn about local culture and explore the surroundings. If you have a background in teaching and education, it will be especially helpful in instructing local children and adults.

Tips before you go to Japan:

• Learn basic phrases and greetings in Japanese.
• Have a translator app on your phone.
• Research Japanese culture and lifestyle.

Location

Your stay in Nagano Prefecture will immerse you in the tranquility of Otaki, a charming village nestled amidst breathtaking mountains, boasting a population of around 800 residents. Otaki transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland, attracting numerous visitors, particularly during the snowy season on Mt. Ontake. As Japan’s second highest volcano, Mt. Ontake not only features a ski resort but also serves as a spiritual hub, drawing various Buddhist groups and pilgrims. Surrounded by a diverse array of shrines and sacred sites, Mt. Ontake offers a serene destination for those seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty.

Project Tasks