James Benson
James works as a translator in the International Affairs Section, Kurashiki City Hall , Japan
James studied Japanese for three years at High School and then completed a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Japanese, at Canterbury University in 1994. After a one year working holiday in Japan he also completed a Commerce degree, majoring in Business Administration in 1997.
His Japanese study provided a foundation in the language which allowed him to move to Japan and eventually do translation and interpreting as a part of his job. These Japanese language skills are essential to his job at Kurashiki City Hall where he has worked for the past seven years in the International Affairs section.
James’ initial interest in Japan came not through the language but through his boyhood training in karate. He has lived and worked in Japan for 14 years and is happy to remain there for the lifestyle and culture. He has a particular appreciation of the food, people, customs and language.
James says that he could also see himself involved in teaching, international relations, diplomacy or trade and tourism.
James lives in Kurashiki, Okayama.