ANNA – Work in Gunma Japan – from United Kingdom

Meet Anna, a UK native and multi-talented individual based in Minakami, Japan. With a passion for writing, photography, and baking, she thrives in the mountain town’s scenic beauty. Having spent her childhood in Japan, Anna cherishes its language and cultural philosophy. She dreams of long-term residency and publishing her book.

Interview – Story in Japan

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

United Kingdom

WHAT DO YOU DO IN JAPAN?

I’m a writer, photographer, and (as of last week!) head baker at Tanigawa Coffee Roastery, a local cafe and lodge located in the mountain town of Minakami.

WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JAPAN?

There’s quite a story behind this, but I’ll give you the short version: I spent six years growing up in Japan as a child, and have wanted to come back ever since. I find the language fascinating (there’s so much interesting history in Kanji!) and I love learning about Japanese cultural philosophy.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?

I live in Minakami, which is a beautiful mountain town in Gunma prefecture. I came here specifically to work in the bakery, but I also love the nature here (dark and deep and green), and I love that the weather changes every hour and that I get to see monkeys when I walk around in the morning. Oh – and the Onsens!

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN THIS CITY?

Tanigawa Coffee Roastery – the coffee, views, and cakes are unparalleled (if I do say so myself 🙂 )

WHAT DID YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?

I love Japanese food. There’s nothing better than a hot bowl of soba on a rainy day.

DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS AFTER YOU START YOUR JOURNEY?

I’m right at the beginning of my journey, but already I’m noticing a huge change in my writing. I write many short stories, and I’ve found that suddenly the words are right there when I reach for them now. My Japanese is also getting better, albeit very slowly.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?

I’d love to live in Japan long term – and publish my book, of course!

MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO JAPAN.

Be open-minded and let yourself be curious. I’ve met some amazing people just by stopping to look at something or by asking a question.

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