New Volunteer Accommodation Center in Machino Town to Support Noto Recovery Efforts

New Accommodation Center for Volunteers in Machino Town

A new initiative has been launched in Machino Town to support recovery efforts following the Noto Peninsula earthquake. This project aims to address the ongoing need for volunteer assistance in the affected areas by providing affordable accommodation.

Addressing the Accommodation Shortage

The Noto region, which has been grappling with the aftermath of the earthquake, requires continuous assistance in various forms. Activities such as home cleaning, technical support, senior citizen assistance, and agricultural support are all critical. Unfortunately, the lack of available accommodation has hindered many willing volunteers from contributing effectively. With the nearest major city, Kanazawa, located about three hours away, day trips become challenging, leading many potential supporters to forgo their help. To combat this issue, a new accommodation facility will open in July 2024.

Features of the Accommodation Facility

1. Cost: Volunteers can stay for a daily fee of 1,500 yen (excluding tax), or opt for a monthly rate of 45,000 yen (excluding tax). The facility caters to both short-term and long-term needs.
2. Eligibility: Open to individuals and organizations registered as volunteers supporting Machino Town. This includes individuals, companies, universities, NPOs, and NGOs involved in recovery operations, although tourism or commercial use is not permitted.
3. Amenities: As this is not a traditional hotel, volunteers are required to bring their own linens and toiletries. Basic necessities like blankets and sleeping bags are necessary to ensure a comfortable stay.
4. Location: The facility is conveniently located, just about 40 minutes from Wajima and one hour from Suzu, making it easier for volunteers to access key support areas and enhance their work efficiency.
5. Self-sufficient Environment: The center includes simple kitchen facilities and communal spaces intended to provide the essential amenities needed for volunteer activities.

Overview of the Facility

- Name: Machino Town Volunteer Base
- Opening Date: July 2025
- Location: Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
- Accommodation Fee: 1,500 yen/day (excluding tax) / 45,000 yen/month (excluding tax)
- Management Entity: Wajima City Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Department
- Operating Agents: Japan Mobile Architecture Association
- Eligibility Requirements: Must be registered as a volunteer supporting Machino Town
- Additional Information: Japan Mobile Architecture Association
- Application Link: Team Machino Application

Comments from the Management

According to Toshi Naruse, Chairman of the Japan Mobile Architecture Association, “Recovery is not a short-term endeavor; continuous human resources are essential. By addressing the issue of lack of accommodation, we can significantly push this region forward. We will continue to implement effective support in collaboration with local authorities.”

Future Prospects

The association is considering several initiatives to further support recovery efforts, including:

- Strengthening the acceptance of technical volunteers
- Assisting and coordinating with enterprises and universities
- Expanding support for long-term residents
- Exploring the verification and utilization of mobile architecture as social reserves.

About Japan Mobile Architecture Association

Established to promote the use of architecture as a societal reserve and to encourage off-site construction, the Japan Mobile Architecture Association collaborates with local builders and businesses while engaging in research, proposals, and outreach activities to alleviate housing shortages, respond to disasters, and revitalize communities.