Nationality: British/Maltese
Time Living in Japan: Over 6 years
Current Job Title: Freelance Photojournalist
Areas of Expertise: Photography, writing, research, editing, travel planning
Education: BA (Hons) Fashion Photography from Falmouth University
Language Ability: English – Native, Japanese – Intermediate
Bio:
Laura has lived in Japan for over six and a half years, spending the first two as an Assistant Language Teacher in Kanagawa Prefecture, before returning once again in 2022 as a photojournalist and traveler. She found she had a knack for telling stories, whether they be from her travels or from listening to the stories of the interesting individuals she has met along the way. She now works as a freelance journalist and content creator based in Yokohama. She brings her literary, photography, and social media skills to Jarman International, sharing the stories of Japan with an international audience.
Laura’s interests are varied, finding herself researching everything from women’s issues to crafting history, travel and leisure to fashion and design. Most of all though, Laura loves to uncover more of Japan, the country she now considers her second home. When she isn’t traveling, writing, or researching, you can find her memorizing lines or in rehearsal for her next theatrical production with one of Tokyo’s esteemed English language theatre companies.
Favorite Thing About Living in Japan:
Japan is an extremely diverse country when it comes to travel destinations. One month I could be skiing in the Alps and the next scuba diving in Okinawa. There is always so much to do here and I know I will never get to do it all in my lifetime – though I can try!
The combination of Japan being reliable and secure and at the same time unexpected and new. Daily public services consistently work here, and they work well, allowing a sense of reliability. There are always new places to visit, new food to try, and new events to attend – I have never once felt bored here!
Favorite Place to Visit in Japan:
Kerama Islands, Okinawa. These islands, just a few hours away from the mainland by ferry, are the most stunning tropical locations I have ever visited. When I first arrived here I couldn’t believe how privileged I was to have access to a place like this. Here you can swim with sea turtles in early summer, go scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, SUPing, hiking, and just generally enjoy the nature around you.
Enoshima, Kanagawa. Having lived in close proximity to Enoshima for a few years in the past, it holds a special place in my heart. The beach line often is dotted with surfers catching waves and is an extremely relaxed environment compared to nearby Tokyo. I love to head across the bridge to the island, climb to the top, stopping at the shrines on the way, and then enjoy a walk around the Samuel Cocking Garden, catching views of Mt. Fuji, and eating french toast there.
What has kept you in Japan?
When I first left Japan, after living here for two years, it was because I didn’t believe I could accomplish what I wanted here. I was wrong. Upon returning I have had more opportunities than I would have back in the U.K. I have a strong network of friends, hobbies I enjoy pursuing, and my career has allowed me to meet people, visit places, and do things I never thought I would. Living in Japan may come with some stressesーmainly bureaucraticーbut overall I feel comfortable and happy here. The cost of living is much better than back home, I fell in love and got married here, and I have built my life here which only continues to expand.
Favorite Place to Visit Outside Japan:
I love going back to Malta to see family there and reconnect, but there isn’t one place I’d really love to go, as I have traveled to many locations around the world. There are places I want to visit, such as Vietnam, Greece, and Canada for a variety of reasons, from their natural landscapes to their food and a sheer interest in their culture. I’m honestly open to so many places though. I also enjoy heading back home to the UK once a year to be with my family and revel in the familiarity that comes with being in the country you grew up in.
What you have noticed has changed throughout your time living in Japan?
The longer you live here, the more “normal” everything starts to feel. Sometimes I have to work extra hard to fully appreciate all the amazing opportunities I have, because only a few years ago they would have seemed unbelievable. I wish I could still see Japan through the eyes of my younger self who just moved here and it was all new, but with daily life you do end up finding yourself in certain rhythms. That being said, my job allows me to see new places very often which is a great way to shake off the dust and go back into full exploration mode!