Jess Gerrity is a New Zealander-turned-Saitama local whose journey has taken her deep into the heart of Japan’s traditional martial arts culture.

Born in Auckland, she first visited Japan as a university student and quickly became captivated by the country’s urban design and public transportation systems. That spark of fascination eventually led her to earn a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and make the move to Japan—now more than 22 years ago.

Jess began her life in Japan as an English teacher, but her path soon shifted toward media. Over the last two decades, she has built a diverse career as a TV personality, writer, narrator, and tourism ambassador, appearing regularly on Japanese television, radio, and in print.

At the center of her life, however, is her devotion to kyūdō, Japanese archery. A 3rd dan practitioner in All Japan Kyudo Federation and a beginner in Heki ryu Insai ha, Jess is a contributing writer for Kyudo Nippon and Budo Japan, and serves as Chief Editor of Kyudo World Magazine. Her martial arts practice extends far beyond the bow, with studies in naginata, kyujutsu, and sports yabusame—horseback archery.

And through it all, she still balances life as a wife and mother of three.

Please welcome my guest today, Jess Gerrity.

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