Traveling has been central to my life. Being born in Tokyo, growing up in New Zealand then moving to the UK created a desire to visit all corners of the world and immerse myself in different cultures. This resulted in a round the world trip after graduating, spanning Asia, Oceania and South America. One of the highlights was completing a ski season in Hakuba, Japan, then subsequently making my way down the spine of the country, ending up in Okinawa.
This trip was especially interesting for me, providing a new insight into Japan as a country. Having experienced it as a local when visiting family, I’ve learned how it works through living here, as well as being a tourist while traveling after my ski season. This led me to Audley, with a desire to help others enjoy Japan as much as I have, and pass on what I’ve learnt along the way.
Q&A with Remi
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
My favorite meals are always kaiseki when staying in a traditional ryokan. They’re set course meals consisting of local ingredients which change seasonally. Eating kaiseki in a ryokan creates a unique experience where you feel like you’re part of a different world. It’s fun deciphering the menu and trying to figure out what exactly you are eating but I always find that going for it and trying new food helps me integrate into the culture. One particular kaiseki course that stands out in my mind is fried river crab, which I ate, claws, shell, eyes and all.
What’s the one thing you always pack?
When traveling to Japan, I always pack omiyage. Omiyage is the exchanging of small gifts to show appreciation and is a large part of Japanese culture. Last time, I took shortbread and a jar of marmite for my Japanese teacher, a quick introduction to English cuisine. Also, don’t forget to pack an extra bag for all the souvenirs and macha you’re bound to bring home with you.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
I was cycling through Hida Furukawa, the blue skies with wisps of cloud clearly reflecting in the recently sowed rice paddies. While passing by, a friendly greeting was shouted out by a family working in a paddy followed by the wave of a hand. Much to their surprise, I hopped off my bike, took off my shoes and socks and waded into the shin deep warm and ‘fruity’ smelling mud. After a quick demonstration, I got to planting, staying with them until we finished the row. Although Raya-Chan, their 5-year-old daughter, laughed at my wonky line and my aching back, I remember feeling the therapeutic repetitive action of plunging the rice into the mud and feeling a deep satisfaction of connecting with an ancient activity and connecting with a local family.