Canned Coffee and Kimonos

Tom Fitzmaurice's memoir, "Canned Coffee and Kimonos," chronicles his four years living and teaching in Tokyo, Japan, providing insight into the life of an English teacher and the cultural experiences he encountered.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 414 pages
Publication date: 21 June 2021
Publisher: i2i Publishing

Tom Fitzmaurice's memoir, "Canned Coffee and Kimonos," chronicles his four-year experience living and teaching in Tokyo, Japan, the largest city on Earth. Coming from the rural West Country of England, Fitzmaurice was unprepared for the new world he encountered, which left him utterly bewildered. Through his experiences, he provides a glimpse into the life of an English teacher in Japan, navigating the challenges and rewards of teaching students of various ages.

The memoir takes readers on a journey through the diverse and captivating aspects of Tokyo. From the surreal experience of sitting in a robot restaurant, witnessing a giant metal triceratops firing multicolored laser beams, to the serene tranquility of secluded and ancient mountain-top shrines on remote Japanese islands, Fitzmaurice captures the essence of coming of age in a beguiling metropolis.

Along the way, Fitzmaurice encounters culture shock, faux pas, joy, hilarity, horror, and the steepest of learning curves. He explores earthquakes, hedgehog cafes, bathing with the yakuza, love hotels, typhoons, geisha, nuclear fallout, fascists, festivals, temples, bullet trains, karaoke, samurai swords, sushi, and sumo. The memoir has it all, offering a rich and immersive portrayal of life in Tokyo.

Through his storytelling, Fitzmaurice captures the essence of the Japanese people and their culture. He portrays the warmth, hospitality, and resilience of the Japanese, as well as their unique customs and traditions. His experiences in Japan not only broadened his perspective but also deepened his appreciation for the world and its diversity.

"Canned Coffee and Kimonos" is a captivating memoir that offers a glimpse into the lives of expatriates and the challenges they face in a foreign land. It is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of adventure. Whether you are interested in Japan, travel, or simply seeking a compelling story, this memoir is sure to captivate your attention.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 130 x 200 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838468651