The concept of volunteerism is not well known in Japan and the word itself, "borantia" is borrowed from English. However, voluntary programs do exist in Japan. This report attempts to describe the way in which volunteerism operates (or does not operate) in Japan by discussing the organization of Japanese society, its implications for volunteerism, the primary motivations for volunteering, personal constraints to volunteering, and the key characteristics of volunteer involvement. A number of recommendations also are made for the further development of Japanese volunteerism. Though the case presented is that of Japan, many of the issues raised also have relevance for other societies and cultures. The report is intended to help volunteers and those who work with them gain a clearer understanding of their work and to discover better ways to accomplish goals. (DB)