Volunteering after a disaster in Japan: disaster volunteer centers, insurance and what to bring

When a disaster strikes Japan, many people, including foreign residents, want to help. Japan's volunteer system works differently from what some readers may know. We couldn't find official English-language instructions for volunteers, so this guide is based on Japanese public sources, with our translations.

Start with the disaster volunteer center

After a major disaster, the local social welfare council (社会福祉協議会) usually opens a disaster volunteer center. Japan's national council says that if you have no personal connection in the affected area, you should register through the volunteer center. The Cabinet Office notes that some centers require advance registration or set age limits, and the government's public relations office says some recruit only residents of the same city or prefecture. It also asks people not to phone affected municipalities directly.

Volunteer insurance

• Volunteers are asked to buy volunteer activity insurance before they travel, by the day before departure.
• The Cabinet Office says it costs about 350 to 500 yen and covers the trip between home and the activity site.
• You apply at your local social welfare council. During disasters, online enrollment may be offered as a special measure, which requires a credit card in your own name.
• The basic plan does not cover injury or death from earthquakes, eruptions or tsunamis; a separate natural-disaster plan exists.

Be self-sufficient

The national council asks volunteers to arrange their own lodging after checking conditions, avoid acting alone, and stay home if unwell. The Cabinet Office lists a helmet, mask, goggles, rubber gloves and rubber boots. Bring your own food and water (our suggestion).

For foreign residents (our suggestions)

• Registration forms and briefings are usually in Japanese. Going with a Japanese-speaking friend helps.
• Early work is mostly heavy labor: clearing debris and shoveling mud.
• If you can't travel, donating through official channels or helping in your own community also counts.

A Japanese version is available: "災害ボランティアに行く前に" (in Japanese).