Putting Wales on the Map in Japan

JET alum supports inbound tourism

Following a JETAA UK promotion in February about an opportunity for someone with a connection to Wales to showcase the nation’s walking gems, Rachel McCrystal couldn’t wait to put herself forward.

A former chair of JETAA North West and a passionate Japan fan, the North Wales-born JET alum was keen to use her experience of both countries to help boost tourism to the UK. Rachel shared her story with Jetlag.

“In early April, I had a unique opportunity to co-present a documentary in my homeland, North Wales, with a film crew team from NHK, Japan’s national public broadcaster.

Entitled One Road, the programme is a one-hour documentary co-presented by me and Midori Nakagawa, a senior announcer for NHK.

“We showcased the majestic mountains, glorious countryside, stunning coastline, community spirit, and the hearts and minds of the Welsh people while walking for six days from Anglesey to Llandudno. This documentary is one of a series filmed across Europe.

“The filming was truly a fantastic experience for me, combining my love of the Japanese language, my passion for my home country and my desire and ambition to attract more Japanese people to visit Wales.

"Not only did I love seeing my home country through the eyes of the film crew from Japan, but I also learnt so much about the area, including its culture, people and farming. I gained an even deeper appreciation of where I was born and grew up.

“I had the opportunity to reflect and reminisce about my childhood in the small village of Dwygyfylchi (near Llandudno), where I lived with my mother, two brothers and two sisters. It made me appreciate being brought up in what can only be described as a big adventure playground made up of mountains, valleys, woodlands and beaches.

“I hope the programme, which aired in Japan on 30th May on NHK BS Premium, will highlight to Japanese viewers that North Wales—with its 800km of national trails and outstanding beauty—is one of the best walking countries in the world.”

Don’t miss out!

JETAA UK is delighted that Rachel was able to be involved in this project. We want all JET alumni to benefit from such Japan-related experiences. We regularly post all upcoming opportunities on our Facebook and Twitter feeds. Follow us to find out more about how you can keep in touch with Japan.