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Robert

Japan specialist

Bobby has always had a passion for travel and an immense interest in other cultures. He followed that interest to the College of Charleston, where he studied anthropology and religious studies.

After graduation, he set off for Asia where he spent three years teaching English in Thailand and Japan. He immediately fell in love with each country despite their vast differences. He particularly loves the cuisine of Thailand and the countryside of Japan. His favorite Thai dish is moo nam tok (grilled pork salad) and his favorite area in Japan is the Nakasendo Path.

After his time in Asia, he decided to join Audley as a Japan and Thailand specialist in order to help as many people as possible experience these amazing countries. When he is not planning his next great adventure, Bobby likes to geocache (a form of GPS orienteering), relax with his cats as well as playing soccer and basketball.

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Bobby Heard

Start planning your trip to Japan with Robert

Flower fields of Furano and Biei, Hokkaido

I recommend visiting - Hokkaido, Japan

While I love the entire country and its amazing people, Hokkaido will always hold a special place in my heart. With 20% of the land and only 5% of the population, "wild Hokkaido", it's the best place to escape the hustle and bustle of Japanese cities. The stunning scenery includes serene alpine forests, colorful wildflower fields, caldera lakes, and bubbling hot springs. Hokkaido is a year round destination with great summer hikes that turn into freshly powdered slopes in the winter. However, don't let this natural beauty overshadow its history and culture. Hokkaido's vibrant capital city, Sapporo, is home to the world renowned Sapporo brewery, a marvelous annual ice sculpture festival, and some of Japan's most delicious ramen. The recent opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen line makes it more and accessible than ever. If you have the time I definitely recommend a trip up to Japan's northernmost island!

Hotel Screen, Kyoto

I recommend staying at - Screen Hotel, Japan

First Class

My favorite accommodation is The Screen in Kyoto. It's a solid 4 star option and is one of the few boutique hotels in Kyoto. Each room is unique with its own design and theme which is very refreshing, especially when compared to most Japanese hotels. Also, the staff is extremely friendly and will be very attentive during your stay. The highlight for me is the roof terrace which is the perfect place to relax with a cocktail after a day spent exploring Kyoto.

I'll never forget when…

I love the outdoors which is why my most memorable experience from my last trip was walking along the Nakasendo Highway. This 330 mile ancient highway connects Kyoto with Tokyo and is lined with waterfalls, cedars, and rice fields. I spent a sunny February afternoon alone on the trail meandering from Magome to Tsumago. It was such a peaceful experience and felt great to breathe the fresh mountain air after a couple of nights in Tokyo.

Photos of Robert

  • Bobby in Japan Bobby in Japan
  • Bobby enjoying the scenery in Hakone Bobby enjoying the scenery in Hakone
  • Bobby visiting a temple in Kanazawa Bobby visiting a temple in Kanazawa
  • Bobby visiting the Matsumoto Castle Bobby visiting the Matsumoto Castle
  • Bobby tasting Sake Bobby tasting Sake
  • Bobby participating in a local cooking class Bobby participating in a local cooking class