Build Real Leadership Skills!

Kyoto Internship Program – Complete Guide

Program Overview

This is a unique opportunity to experience Japan in a way few non-Japanese ever have. Work daily in social programs for underprivileged families, organize relief activities, and help staff our cafe and English school that funds community programs through social enterprise. Both college students and non-students are welcome to apply for this 3-month program.

Location & Experience

You’ll intern in Kyoto’s historic Fushimi district, famous for sake brewing and traditional crafts. This area served as a defense stronghold for Japan’s ancient capital and is home to one of Japan’s most beautiful castles. The program combines meaningful work with deep cultural immersion in one of the world’s safest countries.

What You’ll Actually Do

Daily Work: Support underprivileged families, teach English as a second language, and help operate the Kozmoz New York Cafe. Work with local schools and organizations, sharing your culture while experiencing Japan’s diverse communities.

Schedule: 5 days per week, either 9am-5pm or 1pm-9pm shifts. Days off are typically weekdays (unless special arrangements are made). You can take several days off for travel – just coordinate with the site manager and be prepared to make up the time. Note: days and times can change due to scheduling and events.

Training Provided: ESL teaching, cross-cultural communication, and social enterprise management. We facilitate the application of your existing skills and help you take leadership roles in projects.

We Offer Opportunity; You Bring Transformation

At Kozmoz, we believe character is shaped not by lectures but by lived service. We don’t promise personal transformation — we provide a space where you can serve real people, face real needs, and ask real questions.

Your growth is less about our program and more about the choices you make while serving — your courage, humility, and kindness exercised in the world, and your willingness to consider worldviews from contexts that may hold more value than you’ve yet imagined. That openness is what takes you to the next level.

Living Arrangements

Housing Options

Standard: Kozmoz Share House- room w/ roommate, bunk beds : 700 yen/day (~$4 USD) 
Private room:  1,400 yen/day (~$8 USD)

Facilities: Shared bathroom (typical Japanese house), separate rooms for men and women, internet available at activity center, nearby laundromats. In some cases, internet, laundry and kitchen facilities may be available, ask your coordinator for details.

Meals & Dining

Two meals daily at our cafe – choose any two meals from the menu. Important: We do not provide Halal, Kosher, vegetarian, or vegan options. If your dietary needs aren’t on our menu, you’ll need to provide your own food from local shops and you are free to use the kitchen to prepare your meals. Note: Japan is not vegan-friendly – most restaurant food contains fish or pork stock even if you only see veggies.
Vegan options are mainly found at Zen temples.

House Rules

No formal curfews, but overnight guests are not allowed at Kozmoz House. The site manager lives on-site and will address any issues. Continued problems may result in internship termination.

Financial Investment

Total Realistic Budget

• Airfare: $1,500-2,000 USD roundtrip
• Housing: $150-300 USD monthly
• Personal expenses: $7-14 USD per day (1,000-2,000 yen daily)
• Transportation: $2-2.50 USD to downtown Kyoto/Osaka

Payment Structure

Room and board paid in advance. No refunds provided. All personal activities are self-funded. Prices similar to US but restaurant portions are typically half the size.

Skills & Professional Development

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership experience in real social enterprise operations
• Cross-cultural communication skills
• ESL teaching experience
• Business management exposure in sustainable social enterprise
• Japanese language acceleration (special curriculum available)

Career Impact

Overseas internships open doors with employers. International experience demonstrates independence, adaptability, and global perspective – highly valued in today’s job market.

Documentation

Internship completion certification provided upon request.

Support & Safety

Supervision & Mentorship

• Daily check-ins with site manager required
• Weekly meetings with mentor/site manager/director
• 24-hour emergency contact numbers provided
• Small group environment: 2-4 interns typically present

Emergency Protocols

Japan is extremely safe, but emergencies can happen anywhere:

• Medical emergencies: Call 119
• Police: Call 110
• Other problems: Contact site manager or director directly

Health & Insurance

Students must secure travel health insurance before arrival.

Cultural Opportunities & Free Time

Local Access

Tons of free time to explore. Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe offer endless adventures:

• Historic temples and festivals in Kyoto
• Entertainment districts in Osaka
• International atmosphere in Kobe
• Easy transportation – walking distance or 1-2 train stops to major attractions

Social Environment

Regular events with students, staff, and interns provide friendship opportunities. Professional note: Romantic advances with Kozmoz customers are strongly discouraged.

Application Process

Eligibility Requirements

• Self-starters who aren’t afraid to try new things
• Ability to take instruction and live communally
• Cultural tolerance and willingness to help with daily logistics
• English fluency required (Japanese proficiency not required)
• Duration: 3-month minimum (shorter terms require site manager approval)

Timeline

Apply 3-6 months in advance minimum. Watch for occasional last-minute openings due to cancellations.

Academic Credit

Up to 15 college credits available for qualified participants.

Important Expectations

What We Provide

• Airport pickup and delivery
• Housing and 2 daily meals
• Training and mentorship
• Group travel for overnight trips
• Weekly guidance meetings

What You Provide

• Round-trip airfare to Osaka
• Travel health insurance
• Personal expenses and activities
• Commitment to complete your term
• Flexibility and cultural adaptability

Early Departure Policy

If you need to leave early, understand that this creates challenges for our operations and affects opportunities for other applicants. We expect commitment to your agreed term.

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Ready to transform communities while transforming yourself? This isn’t just an internship – it’s a leadership development experience that will change how you see the world and your role in it.