My passion for Japan stretches back a long way - from simply loving Japanese animation and games at age ten, to making my first trip there as a Boy Scout for the 2015 World Scout Jamboree.
My experience inspired me to move to Japan in 2022 to teach English as part of the JET Programme (Japan Exchange and Teaching). I lived in the beautiful, nature-filled city of Shimanto in Kochi Prefecture for three years. During this time, I improved my Japanese to a conversational level and built deep ties with the culture and local community.
I travelled regularly throughout Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku — exploring vast cities, losing myself in the spellbinding mountains and lakes, and relaxing at gorgeous beaches. Every island has something unique to offer.
As a country specialist, I’m delighted to be able to share my knowledge with those also excited to learn more about ‘the land of the rising sun’.
Q&A with Tom
What tips would you give people wanting to visit your speciality destination?
Japan is a country known for its respect, and as such, I think it’s very important to read up on some basic rules before you go (don’t eat and walk in the street at the same time, for example). There are plenty of online videos and articles about this, so make sure to do some research! You’ll also be amazed at how far some basic Japanese phrases can go. Japanese people love it when you can speak some simple or more complex phrases — they appreciate how difficult it’s to learn, so deeply respect those who go above and beyond.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
My most vivid travel memory would have to be seeing my first festival and fireworks display in Japan during the jamboree. I was staying with a host family, and they took us to the Yosakoi Festival — the biggest in Kochi. The smells of the food stalls, the streets lined with happy locals, meeting the local fire service and even being gifted our own Yukata made for a special day. When the fireworks began, it felt like I was living in a different world. They were huge! It was that memory that inspired me to request Kochi when I applied for JET.
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
I’m a big foody, so local food is always a priority when travelling. My personal favourite is some smoked Katsuo (AKA Bonito) I ate in Shimanto City. The quality of the fish and the smokiness of the flavour (along with some mayo) make it, still, to this day, the best fish I’ve had. I would also highly recommend chicken Nanban in Miyazaki. It’s a dish that combines juicy fried chicken with a rich Japanese-style tartar sauce. It’s a speciality in this region of Japan, and for good reason, it’ll be some of the best fried chicken you’ll eat!