A journey beyond borders: Shi-Chi’s study program in Japan with Yamatomichi

When people think of study abroad experiences, they often picture lecture halls and textbooks. But for Shi-Chi (士琦), a staff member at our Taipei-based partner store Samplus, “studying abroad” meant something vastly more dynamic. From May 16 to 27, Shi-Chi crossed the sea to Japan and immersed himself in the heart of Yamatomichi culture—across our Kamakura and Kyoto stores, and even into the stitching rooms of our Toyooka factory.

This wasn’t just a training program—it was a journey of deep learning, vibrant encounters, and transformative connections.

Over the course of two weeks, I experienced many different interactions, shifting through a variety of scenes. I spoke with customers at the store about mountains and gear in Japan and Taiwan, hiked with friends, and saw firsthand how Yamatomichi gear is professionally made at the factory. Through all of this, many connections and friendships were formed.

In Kamakura, there was a customer who shared in English their upcoming plan to travel around the world. I also encountered customers who seemed puzzled as they saw me using a translation device. One moment that stood out was when, after finally being able to communicate, Beyoncé (Yamatomichi staff) raised his fist stylishly and exclaimed, “Nice communication!” I also had the chance to attend a wonderful presentation on Japanese mountains by Oji-san and Tsunoda-san. The talk inspired me to come back to do a proper hike sometime in the near future.

In Kyoto, I hiked the Kyoto Isshu Trail with Ryo and Dai. For me, it was the longest and fastest hike I’ve ever done. I couldn’t keep up with the pace of the two, who walked while whistling, and I kept stopping out of breath, wondering, “What makes such a difference in our capabilities?” Along the way, they shared their knowledge and experience about gear, walking techniques, food, and more — I learned so much. With George-san’s support, I even took a shortcut at one point, but I was able to complete the trail safely. I encountered many beautiful views and shared countless fun moments — it was truly an amazing experience.

In Toyooka, under everyone’s guidance, I made my own Stuff Pack XL. It was my first time using a sewing machine, and I couldn’t help but laugh at how crooked my stitches turned out — “leave it to the pros,” as the saying goes. Still, I’m very happy with the Stuff Pack and continue to use it every day.

Every single thing that happened became an irreplaceable experience. I want to carry these memories with me as I move forward — whether in the mountains or in everyday life — walking lighter and farther.

Daisuke (Beyoncé) Okamura – Kamakura Store
At first, Shi-Chi hesitated, a bit unsure of how to jump in. But once he did, everything changed. He leaned in with quiet confidence, soon pulling out photos of Taiwan’s dramatic peaks during customer conversations. That simple gesture sparked unexpected exchanges—like discovering that Taiwan’s mountains can be taller than Mt. Fuji. It turned hesitation into connection, and small talk into shared wonder.

Daisuke Itō – Kyoto Store
Over our three days together, I watched Shi-Chi’s approach to ultralight hiking take shape and deepen. We even co-hosted a Japan–Taiwan mountain talk, where his storytelling had the whole room hanging on every word. Hiking, I realized, is the ultimate form of communication—it strips things down to what really matters. Somewhere along the trail, between shared meals and quiet climbs, I think we truly became friends.