It has been 15 years since Earthbag Building (Superadobe), originally developed in the United States, was introduced to Japan.
Since then, we have been researching, building, and continuously refining the technique to suit Japan's unique climate and environment. Japan experiences four distinct seasons, with high humidity and frequent rainfall throughout the year. For this reason, we have carefully focused on moisture control, durability, and long-term performance, gradually developing an approach that is uniquely suited to Japanese conditions. Alongside structural performance, we also place great importance on organic design and the use of as many natural materials as possible. Our goal is to create spaces where people and nature exist in harmony.
In recent years, our work has attracted growing interest from people around the world, not only for its technical improvements but also for its distinctive aesthetics and thoughtful use of natural materials. We will continue exploring the possibilities of earthbag building in Japan, while helping cultivate a building culture that can be passed on to future generations.
We are not currently accepting applications for the workshop.
This workshop marks an exciting new step beyond our previous Earthbag programs. Until now, our workshops have focused on learning the fundamentals of Earthbag Building. While those techniques remain at the core of the program, this time we're expanding into more creative and expressive ways of shaping space. By combining Earthbag Building with rebar sculpting, participants will be able to turn ideas like "I'd love to create a space like this" into reality. This workshop isn't just about learning a building method—it's about exploring new possibilities and bringing your imagination to life.
【Schedule】
7-Day Course – Learn the Fundamentals March 28 (Sat) – April 3 (Fri), 2026
Optional extended participation available for up to 14 days.
30-Day Course – From Foundation to Finishing March 28 (Sat) – April 26 (Sun), 2026
8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (including a one-hour lunch break)
【Content】
7-Day Course
Hands-on Training
・Foundation construction・Earthbag wall construction (structural shell)
Theory Sessions
・Interior and exterior finishes for earthbag buildings・How to test and evaluate soil・How to design and build an earthbag dome
【Course Fee】
7-Day Course ¥
30-Day Course ¥
【Location】
30-Day Course
Hands-on Training
・Foundation construction ・Earthbag wall construction (structural shell) ・Rebar sculpting and framework ・Interior and exterior finishes ・Finishing techniques and guidance
Theory Sessions
・Interior and exterior finishing for earthbag buildings ・Soil testing and evaluation ・How to design and build an earthbag dome
Kawachi-machi, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto
For participants coming from outside the area, accommodation is available in a shared traditional Japanese house. Living together is part of the experience, so we kindly ask everyone to take responsibility for their own daily tasks, such as laundry and cleaning.
【Rent】
7-Day Course ¥20,000
30-Day Course ¥35,000
【Equipment】
Shared kitchen, Refrigerator, Washing machine, Bathroom, Toilet, Futon bedding, Free parking
※Towels, toiletries, and other personal items are not provided. Please bring your own.
【Notes】
The shared house is located approximately 10 minutes by car from the workshop site.
Participants will generally stay in shared rooms separated by gender. If you are traveling by car, overnight stays in your vehicle are also welcome on the shared house property.
If you prefer to arrange your own accommodation, here are two affordable options nearby:
Example 1: Kusamakura Onsen Tensui Approximately 5 minutes by car from the workshop site. Offers both mountain lodge rooms and tent camping.
Example 2: HIKE hostel / cafe / bar Approximately 20 minutes by car from the workshop site.
There are also other accommodations in the area, including traditional inns (ryokan) and guesthouses (minshuku). The two options above are simply recommended as affordable examples.
【Meals During the Workshop】
Lunch is included in the course fee from March 28 to April 3 (excluding days off). Lunch arrangements after April 4 will depend on the number of participants and will be announced later. Dinner is available upon request for ¥1,000 per meal. If you plan to cook your own dinner, please coordinate with the meal preparation team regarding the use of the shared kitchen.
【Meeting Information】
On the evening before the workshop begins, we will hold a welcome dinner where participants and staff can get to know each other. The dinner is scheduled to start at around 6:30 PM on the day before the workshop. Further details, including the meeting location, will be sent to participants closer to the workshop date.
【For Participants Arriving by Car】
Parking is available at both the shared house and the workshop site. As some participants may not have access to a car during the workshop, we would greatly appreciate your cooperation in carpooling whenever possible.
【Daily Workflow】
The workshop generally follows a schedule of three working days followed by one day off. Please note that the daily schedule and rest days may be adjusted depending on weather conditions and the progress of construction.
【Language】
The workshop is conducted primarily in Japanese. English interpretation will be provided, allowing international participants to follow the instruction and participate in the workshop.
【 Office 】
1407-1 Shirahama, Kawachi-machi, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto
TEL: 096-288-3720 9:00~19:00 (jp)
E-mail：earthbag.japan@gmail.com
© 2012-2026 Japan Earth Bag Association