Question 1

What do counselors actually do at the camp?

Accepted Answer

Counselors co-create English-language workshops based on their own college experiences and personal passions, then facilitate those workshops with Japanese middle and high schoolers during the 3-4 night residential camp. They also support communication between Japanese and American staff, help run team activities, and assist with camp operations.

Question 2

Do I need to speak Japanese or have strong English skills to join?

Accepted Answer

English proficiency is not required for Japan Staff (the Japanese-side college volunteers). No language requirement for counselors is stated, though the program runs in English and counselors are expected to lead workshops in English.

Question 3

Is this a paid position, and are travel expenses covered?

Accepted Answer

Japan Staff positions are listed as unpaid volunteer roles, though domestic transportation assistance may be available with a cap. Counselors from American universities should check with the organization, as expenses policy is not fully detailed in the counselor-facing materials.

Question 4

Which schools does Tokiha recruit counselors from?

Accepted Answer

Tokiha recruits counselors from UC Berkeley, Stanford, UCLA, UC Davis, and other schools. The organization has also specifically reached out to UC Davis, UC Irvine, and University of Washington in past years.

Question 5

When and where does the camp take place?

Accepted Answer

The camp runs for 3 nights and 4 days in early August each year. Recent and upcoming editions are held at Genkai Youth Hostel in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. The 2026 camp runs August 2-5.