Skateboarding in Japan: How to Meet Locals with Your Hobbies
Cultural differences and language barriers are challenges you may face while abroad. But there are ways in which you can expedite the integration. My suggestion? Identify something you love, like an art craft or recreational hobby, and use that as a tool to explore new areas and meet the locals.
For me, skateboarding was an active, creative outlet which allowed me to find a sense of community during my first trip to Japan.
In 2016, The ICC pronounced Tokyo as the inaugural host for skateboarding in the 2020 Olympic Games. This spike in cultural relevance deepened my appetite for discovery, especially considering that I live in Los Angeles, the birthplace of skateboarding. With all of this in consideration, I researched everything I needed to know about skating in Japan and made sure to pack my luggage with all the essential gear. After my arrival, I hit the streets, exploring Tokyo as an urban playground fit with some of the best spots and best people!
Top 3 Highlights
Making new friendships with the locals
Exploring various parts of the city I wouldn’t have otherwise
Developing my craft with a new global perspective and cultural influence
Things to Consider When Choosing your Tool for Exploration
How dangerous is it?
I fell pretty bad on my face during the last week of the program and spent a night in the hospital.
Pro Tip: Be familiar with your travel insurance!
What are the financial costs?
Skateboards seemed to be more expensive and of cheaper quality as compared to what we have in the US. Somehow, I broke three boards during my trip.
Pro Tip: Do your research and decide what is best to bring with you or to buy while aboard. You can save money in the long run.
Will it take up luggage space?
This wasn’t a big inconvenience, but all my gear (shoes, clothing, boards, etc.) took up prime luggage real estate.
Pro tip: Disassemble your equipment so you can organize it better and be more space efficient.
In short
Identify something you’re passionate about which could be explored while abroad.
Research the current trends and best places to explore.
Plan your trip and don’t forget to bring all the essential items to optimize your experience.
Explore to your heart’s content!
Sources
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Written by Mark Biedlingmaier. Mark graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2018 with a B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies where he focused on the intersectionality of food, health, and sustainability. He currently works as a Project Coordinator for the Semel Healthy Campus Initiative Center at UCLA, an entity working to improve the health and well-being for students, staff, and faculty. This year he returns to Global English Camp as a Team Leader after having great experiences as an intern back in 2018.
Edited by Paige Goetz, Director of Communications