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"I felt that I had changed a lot—my confidence in speaking, communication skills, composure, and so on. Even when I look back on myself, I can see the difference. After returning to Korea, I found myself wanting to try many new things, and I became more motivated to improve my language skills. I hope everyone who participates in this project takes some time afterward to reflect on themselves. The results will definitely be different."
Dive into the Charm of Green! A Gap Year Stay Experience at a Farm in Hokkaido, Japan
Kim Jaeseong, Korea GapYear Participant (23 years old, University Student) / 8 Weeks of Gap Year
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# Why should you care if I want to do it?
After finishing my military service, I was worried about the aimlessness of daily life and my lack of plans. I wanted to try something, anything, so I decided to participate. My friends had told me about their fun experiences with farm stays, and I had always been intrigued by the idea of taking on a challenge abroad. Plus, I wanted to improve my Japanese, so I wondered, "Could I go there, work, and improve my Japanese skills at the same time?"
However, before starting this gap year, my friends' comments weren't encouraging. "Why go all the way to Japan to farm?", "Are you an old man? Use that money to travel somewhere else instead." Rather than supporting me, they were full of criticism. One friend who had farming experience even said, "It's really hard—you won't last a week."
As my determination wavered, I considered giving up. But when I imagined myself working in a vast field under a blue sky, I couldn't let go of the idea. Despite the criticism, I thought, "If not now, when will I ever get this chance?" and decided to go for it.
During my two-month gap year in Japan, I wanted to explore all my curiosities about Japan as a Korean, see and do everything I had dreamed of, and create my own unique story. My goal was to overcome my fear of communication and build my confidence with others.
If someone were to criticize every decision I made, like my friends did at that time, I would say this.
Ah, what does it have to do with you?
# Farming is for old people? What are you talking about!
Currently, South Korea faces a rapid decline in young population in rural areas, leading to a shortage of both labor and productivity. This results in the aging of the countryside and the stereotype among the younger generation: "Farming? Isn't that something old people do?"
It is not an exaggeration to say that the foundation of all economic power starts in rural areas. The United States built its economic base during President Ronald Reagan's era with rural reforms, and Japan has been increasing its support for rural areas as more people move from cities to the countryside.
Hokkaido is a region in Japan that has focused on agriculture, fishing, and livestock farming to develop. As a result, schools teach subjects related to these industries, and many young people are integrating new ideas into products, turning them into tourist attractions. This shows that if only elderly people participate, progress will be impossible.
# Do you only farm? Relax, enjoy, and do whatever you want!
Hokkaido, the heart of Japan's primary industries, is a place where food is everywhere, and it is also a hub for Japan’s entertainment, offering countless things to see and enjoy! The food made from ingredients grown in Hokkaido delighted both my eyes and my taste buds.
I ate sandwiches made with homegrown vegetables and pork, and enjoyed delicious milk made from locally raised livestock! Fresh fish harvested in the morning was served as sashimi, and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to line up for such tasty food! After eating my fill, it was time for fun! Biei, Furano, Asahikawa, and Sapporo – just hearing their names evokes the unique charm of each place. Every experience in these areas gave me endless joy, with a new sensation in each location.
# Afraid of talking to strangers? There’s joy in that connection!
While working on the farm, the villagers would often come by to help. And guests from other countries frequently visited as well. I saw this as an opportunity and shared many conversations with them.
Curious about Hokkaido travel tips? Sharing stories with my guests brought valuable information, and through our conversations, we got to know each other better. Don’t be afraid to talk because the language is difficult! When you communicate using all means and methods, the conversation becomes enjoyable, and you’ll see your language skills improve.
Not sure what to talk about? I asked them to teach me their language, and I even learned some Japanese dialects. Not only that, but by discussing the differences in thinking between Korea and Japan, we were able to resolve misunderstandings and answer questions we had about each other.
# The results will definitely be beyond what you expect.
The neighbors and local staff were so kind to me, and I really appreciated it. I went on a hot spring trip once a week, visited delicious restaurants, department stores, and had many experiences. On birthdays, I received birthday wishes, and whenever guests came, we had fun parties. It was a chance to realize what true relaxation is, something different from the cold, busy life in the city.
I also met so many people here. I met singers, musicians, photographers, office workers, travelers, and more. Although all of our meetings were short, the time spent together was enjoyable. I listened to their stories, and I shared mine.
I realized how enjoyable it is to have a conversation with someone. Having these conversations made me reflect once again on what I should do in the future and what kind of life I should lead.
I noticed a significant change in myself when I look back—my confidence in speaking, my eloquence, my composure, and more. After returning to Korea, I have many things I want to try, and I now have a desire to improve my language skills further.
My fear of traveling has disappeared. I also learned how to enjoy traveling alone.
I hope that everyone who participates in this project takes time to reflect on themselves after returning. The results will definitely be different.
# My Gap Year Tips
(Language)
1. Never try to memorize by reading the book over and over.
2. Japanese grammar is similar to Korean. Therefore, you can easily complete sentences by putting the pieces together like a puzzle.
3. Never be afraid. No one expects you to be fluent in a foreign language, and no one will criticize you if you can’t speak it well.
4. If you express your thoughts as much as possible, they will try to understand you. However, since the local staff speaks both English and Japanese, you don’t need to feel particularly burdened by the language.
(Meals)
1. Breakfast is at 7 AM / Dinner is at 6 PM / People from other countries and neighbors often join for parties, so occasional gatherings happen.
2. Work is from 8 AM to 5 PM.
3. Since you're participating, why not learn a few Korean dishes and serve them?
(Things to Bring)
No need to bring work clothes separately.
You don’t need to bring a lot just to think about fashion.
You can bring comfortable workout clothes or sportswear. Be sure to bring a lot of socks.
Clothing will be provided by a local Japanese person, so if you need work clothes, a couple of cotton T-shirts and cotton pants should be enough. If you tend to sweat a lot in certain areas, feel free to bring extra. (It’s a good idea to bring a lot of socks.)
(Safety)
Guests will not be asked to do anything too difficult, but since there may be a risk of injury while doing farm work, please make sure to bring some basic medicine.
(For Prospective Participants)
Do it with confidence.
If you’re thinking “How am I supposed to do this?” or “If I had known this would be like this, I wouldn’t have done it…”, don’t do it.
Since you're participating, enjoy it, even though it might be tough. At the end of the day, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment.
I participated in the farm stay as a representative of 'Korean'.
Please don't leave a bad impression of Koreans with other guests.
# My Own Japan Travel Destination
If you have the financial means and enough time, I would recommend a trip to Hakodate, Otaru, and Sapporo. There’s no rule that says you have to go to specific places when traveling. In my case, I wandered around alleyways and walked everywhere except for by train. I wanted to experience the daily life of Japan, so I visited many residential areas and markets.
I also went to many bars. If you want to talk and have fun with Japanese people, the best place is a bar.
My Gap Year
Experience ★★★★★
I did everything I wanted to do, so I have no regrets.
Learning ★★★★★
I realized how much I could learn from rural life.
Environment ★★★★★
During my time there, I breathed fresh air and felt healthier. The surroundings are full of mountains and snow, so I think I'll never get sick.
Safety ★★★★☆
The environment was safe, but there were a few minor injuries while working, so I need to be cautious.
Leisure ★★★★★
Every weekend, I went on hot spring trips, visited department stores, and dined out. I had free time to do whatever I wanted.
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