Originally from Michigan’s northern lower-peninsula (US), I have lived in Japan for two years now. In the wee village of Yasuoka, I inhabited southern Nagano’s forgotten regions (Iida block). I survived by studying Japanese and karate, exploring secluded train stations, and climbing random rocks behind abandoned farmhouses. Now that I’ve proudly fared the remoteness and winding roads, I’m ready to conquer the “cities” of Suwa-Ina. I now teach in Minowa Shinshu and Takato, and live here with my husband, Daniel. We love Nagano for it's endless outdoor activities, and we’re happy doing anything in, on, or around a mountain. This year, I am excited to plan events and share my knowledge of Nagano’s beautiful landscape. Join me in an adventure sometime!

My name is Molly Conner, and I am a third year JET in Komagane: home to Mount Komagatake, sauce katsudon, and Komagane Kogen. It’s a park with giant mechanical bugs that you can battle. I also run Yomoyama, AJET’s wonderful online magazine. If you write for it, all the ladies and gentlemen in Nagano will think that you are a very cool and happening individual.

This is my second year as a block leader. Last year, I did a pretty good job of keeping 87% of our incoming block members alive through the winter! This year, I am shooting for 92%. If you need any help getting settled in, or just want to talk to someone who remembers how incredibly strange your first few weeks (months, years) in Japan can be, feel free to drop me a line.