SARAH LAPPIN
A childhood fascination with Japan and it's language led Sarah to move from Australia at age 18. For 8 years she lived in remote villages and towns high in the mountains training martial arts, learning calligraphy and experiencing a depth of Japanese culture rarely available to westerners. With a NAATI accreditation in interpreting, she has since led countless groups on adventures countrywide. Her longterm engagement in Buddhist practices led her to walk the entire Shikoku pilgrimage in 2009 where she traditionally slept most part outdoors and completed the pilgrimage in 50 days. When not in Japan Sarah manages a Buddhist meditation retreat centre in the Dordogne region of France and teaches Japanese language, culture and meditation which she will offer during the trip.
SHOZO YAMAZAKI
Shozo was born and grew up in Shizuoka prefecture, known for Mount Fuji and rich green tea. After graduating from Aoyama University in Tokyo, he commenced his career in the travel / aviation industry with Korean Airlines in ’78 when Narita Airport opened. He joined Qantas Airways in ’87 and became the head of Qantas airport operation in 2001. With over 50 flights a week from various locations in Japan he was responsible for looking after the entire Qantas operation including staff in all airports.
Shozo’s travel experience is extensive to say the least. At age 20 he walked 2000km from the north to the south of the main island of Japan, Honshu. At age 22 he spent more than 6 months as a backpacker travelling from Europe all the way to India through the Middle East when the area was very peaceful and, even during his Qantas term, he traveled every year experiencing many new countries.
Now in retirement, Shozo enjoys relaxing at home, except for one of the biggest events of his life, the Shikoku pilgrimage which he walked in 2014. He now very much looks forward to welcoming guests from overseas and developing friendships through this program.
SARAH & SHOZO
Through a shared love for Japanese culture and history Shozo and Sarah met in 1999 whilst both employed by Qantas Airways and have kept a close friendship ever since, including a connection between each of their families. Combining their skills and enthusiasm they are thrilled to share their passions and this adventure with you!