In a partnership with Earth Celebration’s team, Jarman International is sending five media and travel professionals to help spread the word about the event, as well as develop tour ideas for next year. You can learn about each member below.

Ruth Marie Jarman – Jarman International CEO

The team’s trip to Sado Island will be led by Jarman International CEO, Ruth Marie Jarman, who will be joining Earth Celebration for the second time. 

“I feel that Japan has come into an era of true internationalization. If we think in terms of surfing, we saw the wave approaching from around 10+ years ago and now we are on that wave, trying to get enough balance to stand up and actually ride it. More companies are looking at how they can create better lines of communication between increasingly diverse teams. Regions and towns are going into much more detail about how to express their great worth to every visitor, and the concept of Kuleana (the Hawaiian word for ‘a sense of responsibility’) in tourism is gaining ground. I hope that Jarman International can support the fundamental changes going on in Japan with kindness, laughter and effective strategy. Japan is a very exciting place right now and it will surely stay that way for the foreseeable future.”

“As for Earth Celebration, I am extremely excited about visiting Sado after about five years. I still remember being in complete awe when I caught sight of Sado’s towering mountains from the ferry for the first time, and feeling speechless by Kodo’s dynamic performances. The beat of the drums and the community vibe of love that permeates the island during the festival are two of the biggest draws for me. This time, I will be taking my orange car named Mikan to help me explore this place in a way I have never done before.”

John Daub – Creator and producer of the ONLY in JAPAN YouTube series

Creator and producer of the ONLY in JAPAN YouTube series (630,000+ total subscribers across two channels), John Daub, will also participate in Earth Celebration for the second time. After his first visit, John released an episode on his main channel, capturing the inspiring story of Kodo’s drummers. You can watch it HERE. 

As a former NHK World reporter from 2008 to 2023, John has now lived in Japan for 25+ years with a YouTube career spanning over 15. He is also an inbound tourism contributor to TBS Hiruobi, having worked with a numerous companies including LIXIL, JTB, etc. 

During the pandemic, John crowdfunded 100,000 dollars with his community to help family-run firework companies hire workers in Akita, Niigata and Nagano prefectures when summer festivals were getting canceled nationwide. 

“Knowing how Earth Celebration was challenged over the pandemic without a regular audience, it will be the first event at full strength with tourism back at 2019 levels. Kodo’s music has always brought people together, collaborating with sounds from around the world. This weekend is going to be a smash hit!”

Laura Pollacco – Freelance writer and photographer

Through her experience living in Japan for over four years, freelance photojournalist, Laura Pollacco, has published articles in a variety of media including the Japan Times, Tokyo Weekender, Metropolis and more. She has offered her insightful, positive, and fun writing abilities on a variety of Jarman International projects, from posting on the Yonezawa ABC social media pages to revamping our newly-owned Deep Japan website (currently in the works). 

“My role in Japan is to share the stories of people, places and experiences that aren’t often seen. It is an immense privilege to help bring attention to these stories, and through my small contribution, I hope I can increase awareness on just how much there is waiting to be discovered here. I want to spread awareness as authentically as possible, finding true joy in the stories I cover so that if I recommend it, you know it’s because I believe in it.”

“I’m excited to head to Earth Celebration and explore an area of Japan I have never visited before. I am particularly looking forward to joining in with the festivities, listening to the music, and taking part in the workshops. For me, festivals in Japan create an atmosphere of joy and wonderment, allowing anyone to take part and learn something new. I am thrilled to be joining Earth Celebration this year!”

Sébastien Duval – Business development manager and experienced tour guide in Japan

As a business development manager and consultant for the media and travel agency, Japan Travel KK, Sébastien helps Japanese ministries, prefectures, cities and businesses in the event, tourism and hospitality industries based on 20 years in Japan and stays across 20 countries. The goal is to help revitalize local economies and fight depopulation through job creation, and promote long stays to internationals.  

“I love Japan for its fascinating culture, outdoor hot springs, diverse hiking grounds (from arctic Hokkaido to tropical Okinawa), and I’m particularly grateful to the incredible artisans and farmers who have taught me so much. I value diversity, inclusivity, sustainability, regeneration, and plant-based lifestyles.”

“Years ago, I attended Earth Celebration on my own, and those sets of concerts remain my top event memory in Japan. The music was amazing, but I was even more impressed by the traditional costumes, community vibe and overall energetic atmosphere. This year, I am looking forward to the aspect of Earth Celebration that I think makes it very special: the guest musicians. It will be very fun to experience the Ugandan group play an instrument I’ve never seen or heard before.”

“Regarding the trip to Sado Island itself, I am eager to try the water activities, including night kayaking and riding the tarai-bune (traditional wash tub boat). These new experiences will make the trip a real adventure!”

Swastika Harsh Jajoo – Manager for F-ATRAs (Futaba Area Tourism Research Association)

Swastika has been in Japan for the last six years, spending her time mostly as a student, enrolled first in a short-term exchange program in Fukuoka Women’s University and later in a Master’s and PhD at Tohoku University. She is still part of the PhD program, working towards a degree in Linguistics, while also working as a manager for F-ATRAs (Futaba Area Tourism Research Association) in inbound tourism, marketing and translation. You can read more about her story below. 

“In 2021, I had the opportunity to visit Futaba in the coastal region of Fukushima, a town I only knew of as a ‘disaster-impacted area’. The event that I took part in was called the ‘Town Story Walking Tour’, a specially-curated tour based on the interviews of hundreds of townspeople. It helped to humanize the area for me, and as a poet and storyteller myself, telling stories of people that occupied these towns before the evacuation orders were passed was as important as talking about the disaster itself. My attention was drawn to how we frame narratives when we talk about disaster resilience, and I was fortunate to be offered an internship with F-ATRAs.”

“After interning here for 3 years, I started working full-time for the organization from October 2023, which is also when I decided to take a temporary break from my PhD program. It is my sincere hope to be able to engage in community-building here by being honest to my story and the stories of people I meet.”

“My biggest motivation to move to Japan was Japanese–I started studying the language for the first time as part of the short-term exchange program in Fukuoka, and noticed how learning a new language that was so different from my own helped me rediscover my own self. I’ve moved cities and schools so many times in India that I think I was able to build a real sense of stability for myself only after moving to Japan.”

“Currently, my goals are to work on inbound tourism in Fukushima and also try to complete my PhD degree. Alongside, I want to keep experimenting with poetry and food, the two defining elements of my life. I also had the opportunity to teach Japanese to international children, and want to stay engaged with language education. I think all of my efforts, whether it be regarding tourism or language, are centered on sharing what I love with the world.”

“I think it’s really cool that Earth Celebration is organized by the taiko drumming group Kodo. In Futaba, we have a taiko group called Shineha Sendan Daiko that managed to stay together despite being forced into evacuation, so I’m generally in awe of the sense of unity that taiko groups display. I also find it very inspiring how the festival focuses on environmental awareness and sustainability, and also seeks to combine local, traditional art with international forms. I’m very excited about the drumming workshops and ‘Shukusai: Sunset Finale Harbour Concert’! This is going to be my first time on Sado Island so I’m ready to just take it all in.”

Photo credits of Kodo photos by Maiko Miyagawa and Takashi Okamoto.

The post Jarman International sends five media and travel professionals to Sado Island (Niigata Prefecture) to promote and develop future tours related to the annual Earth Celebration music festival hosted by world-class taiko ensemble, Kodo appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Fatty, tender, and umami-rich…Japanese wagyu beef is one of the world’s most luxurious foods, ranked high among ingredients like black truffles and caviar. But what makes wagyu so special? The secret lies in nutrient-rich fodder, gender, lifespan and…classical music!?

Check out this Japan Today article written by JI Core 50 member Vicki L. Beyer to learn about wagyu from snowy Yonezawa City in Yamagata Prefecture, which has a centuries-long history of raising cattle.

JI Core 50 member and popular YouTuber of the ONLY in JAPAN channel, John Daub, also created an episode all about Yonezawa gyu, from raising the cattle to grading the meat.

Also subscribe to John’s livestream-only channel, ONLY in JAPAN * GO for pretty much daily uploads!

The post Find out what makes Japanese wagyu beef world class! (Yonezawa, Yamagata) appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Although the northeastern Tohoku region is full of incredible cuisine, culture and community, it is still relatively undiscovered by international visitors. Check out John’s livestreams for an exclusive look into a side of Japan that you may not have even imagined.

Subscribe to John’s ONLY in JAPAN * GO livestream channel and ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub main channel for more!

• Japanese Train Ice Bridge Crossing | JR Tadami Line
• Japan’s Hawaiian Resort Experience
• Japanese Wagyu Beef BBQ | Aomori Yakiniku Grill
• Japanese Winter Cuisine Ginger Miso Oden

Travel across Tohoku affordably with the JR EAST PASS!

The post Discover hidden Japan with YouTuber John Daub in Fukushima and Aomori! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Kochi Prefecture is located along the southwest coast of Japan’s Shikoku Island, famous for its crystal clear rivers, dynamic mountains, award-winning sake, freshest seafood, friendly locals and more. To spread the Kochi love, Jarman International helped gather 30 non-Japanese participants to Tosa Shimizu World restaurant in Osaka that serves authentic Kochi cuisine. Simultaneously, John Daub livestreamed the event on his ONLY in JAPAN * GO channel to people across the globe for an afternoon of celebrating and learning about Kochi, Japan’s hidden gem. 

Besides the melt-in-your-mouth seared bonito, delicious local sake and other Kochi delicacies, participants were immersed in the fun of Yosakoi, the representative dance of the region. This Kochi dance has always been about having fun, rather than following strict rules, which is why there are a wide range of costumes, choreography, and music ranging from traditional Japanese folk tunes to pop, rock and salsa-inspired rhythms! It is no surprise that this 70-year-old dance has gained popularity around the world, and also won the hearts of the participants during the event!

Check out John’s livestream of the event HERE.

Kochi is actually easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka! Discover the route HERE.

Learn more about Kochi HERE.

The post Jarman International hosted an event in Osaka with John Daub to spread the beauty and fun of Kochi’s culture and cuisine! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

Besides the usual varieties like sashimi, rolls, and nigiri, there is one you have probably never heard of called saiku sushi. These consist of maguro tuna shaped like beautiful Japanese Camellias, pieces of fresh squid meticulously designed into rabbit shapes, cuts of salmon twirled to look like petals of a blossom, and many more!

What is the history of saiku sushi? How is it made? Does it taste different from regular sushi?

Learn all about this new type of sushi in popular YouTuber, John Daub‘s new episode on his ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub channel below:

The post Explore the world of saiku decorative sushi with YouTuber John Daub on his ONLY in JAPAN channel! (Tokyo) appeared first on Jarman International KK.

John also experiences the exact patterns of the Great East Japan Earthquake through the simulator, which devastated the Tohoku region in the north of Japan, especially with its ensuing tsunami. John shares some of his reflections and thoughts as we pass the 10th-year mark since the earthquake hit the country.

Check out John’s new episode below:

★Please subscribe to John’s main channel for more incredible content: ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub

★For more regular content, please subscribe to John’s live streaming channel, ONLY in JAPAN * GO

The post 10 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake – Check out YouTuber John Daub’s latest episode that explores its lasting impacts, and let us never forget appeared first on Jarman International KK.

The campaign is opening with an exclusive Shinkansen journey from Tokyo station to Shin Aomori station on April 3, 2021, which JI Core 50 Member and popular YouTuber John Daub will be live streaming on his ONLY in JAPAN * GO channel so anybody around the world can enjoy!

The campaign is also offering 100 international residents the chance to join John on the special train with a 15,000 YEN application fee. If you are selected, you will not only get to board the train, but also receive a 5-day JR EAST Pass – Tohoku area (original price 20,000 YEN), a Welcome Suica and some other great perks!

If you are selected, the conditions will be to participate in several ceremonies at each arrival point while boarding the special train on April 3, post one or more times on any social media site about your experience, stay at least one night in one of the six prefectures in the Tohoku region, and fill out a questionnaire after your travels.

Check out the Japan Today press release below for further details:

https://japantoday.com/category/features/travel/join-popular-youtuber-‘only-in-japan’-on-special-train-journey-to-tohoku-on-april-3

To apply and check the terms and conditions for participation, please refer to the link below:

https://www.wamazing.com/campaign/tohoku_dc?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=japan_today&utm_campaign=tohoku_dc_2021&utm_term=pr

We hope to see you on board, either virtually or in-person!

The post Apply to join JI Core 50 member and popular YouTuber John Daub on a special train ride to Tohoku on April 3rd! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

For JI Core 50 member and popular YouTuber John Daub, the deliciously spicy-salty citrus condiment called yuzukosho is his favorite! It pairs beautifully with practically any dish, including sushi, ramen, hot pot, grilled meat skewers, etc.

Join John on a trip down to Kochi Prefecture to discover the flavorful world of yuzukosho, all the way from harvesting the yuzu fruits and manufacturing the beautiful green paste, to enjoying it at a restaurant or in a home cooked meal.

Have a look at his video on the ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub YouTube channel below:

★Please subscribe to John’s main channel for more incredible content: ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub

★For more regular content, please subscribe to John’s live streaming channel, ONLY in JAPAN * GO

The post Dive Deep into the Flavorful World of Yuzukosho with YouTuber John Daub! (Kochi Prefecture) appeared first on Jarman International KK.

In his new video, John presents the ultimate Japanese mushroom guide as he walks you through the more than dozen types of mushrooms you can find across supermarkets in Japan, including how to cook each of them. He also uses the JR EAST Welcome Rail Pass 2020 (available to non-Japanese passport holders) to travel to the beautiful Yamagata Prefecture, where he learns all about mushrooms from local experts.

How much do YOU know about mushrooms? Check out John’s video below and find out!

What is the JR EAST Welcome Rail Pass 2020?

Until now, JR Rail Passes have only been available to tourists visiting Japan. However, this year, JR EAST created this new, foreign resident-friendly pass to give members of Japan’s international community a budget-friendly way to explore the Tohoku and Kanto regions, as well as provide an alternative to international travel.

This pass will allow 3 consecutive days of unlimited travel on the Tohoku, Yamagata, Akita, Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansens, along with JR EAST train lines and a number of local railways. As it is valid for a large area of Japan, pass holders will be able to explore from the northernmost reaches of Aomori to the hot spring resorts of Shizuoka, just south of Tokyo, for a flat 12,000 yen fee (6,000 yen for Children).

★For more information about the JR EAST Welcome Rail Pass 2020 and where to purchase it, please click HERE
★An article about the pass has been published on JAPAN TODAY 
★Please subscribe to John’s channel for more incredible content: ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub

The post Join YouTuber John Daub on the Ultimate Mushroom Adventure in Yamagata Prefecture! appeared first on Jarman International KK.

As part of our promotional effort, JI Core 50 Consultant and popular YouTuber John Daub used this rail pass to travel around Tohoku and introduce the region’s culture, food, and history, to his viewers tuning in from all over the world.

In one of his livestreams, he attempted the all-you-can-eat wanko soba challenge, which is a traditional buckwheat noodle dish from Morioka City, Iwate prefecture. The challenge is to quickly eat one-bite servings of the soba noodles and get your small bowl refilled repetitively until it is impossible to eat anymore.

How many bowls do you think John managed to eat? Watch the video below to find out!

What is the JR EAST Welcome Rail Pass 2020?

Until now, JR Rail Passes have only been available to tourists visiting Japan. However, this year, JR EAST created this new, foreign resident-friendly pass to give members of Japan’s international community a budget-friendly way to explore the Tohoku and Kanto regions, as well as provide an alternative to international travel.

This pass will allow 3 consecutive days of unlimited travel on the Tohoku, Yamagata, Akita, Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansens, along with JR EAST train lines and a number of local railways. As it is valid for a large area of Japan, pass holders will be able to explore from the northernmost reaches of Aomori to the hot spring resorts of Shizuoka, just south of Tokyo, for a flat 12,000 yen fee (6,000 yen for Children).

★For more information about the JR EAST Welcome Rail Pass 2020 and where to purchase it, please click HERE

★An article about the pass has been published on JAPAN TODAY 

★Please subscribe to John’s channel for more incredible content: ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub

The post YouTuber John Daub Attempts the Wanko Soba Challenge! His Livestream Gains More Than 20,000 Views Within the First 24 Hours! (Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture) appeared first on Jarman International KK.