What is Kulture Kaiwa?
Kulture Kaiwa literally means culture conversation – it’s an open space for all things heritage, identity and experience. Join me as I dive into different cultures, giving tips and guidance through my wrong turns, unexpected finds, and must try dishes.
Hi! I’m Emmylou, a Filipino-Australian ‘halfie’ from Perth. If you’re into personality types you might say I’m a classic Gemini or Enneagram 7, but I like to say I’m a jack of all trades. With a curiosity that can be hard to keep up with and an endless desire for anything new, I don’t tend to stay in one place for very long.
I’ve spent my 20’s living in Japan, Canada, and Australia, learning languages, working as a pastry chef, and connecting with my Filipino/Euro-Australian roots. There’s nothing I love more than exploring new places, trying different foods, and sharing stories with people all over the globe.
I am constantly learning about myself and the world through my travels and I created this site as a space to share my discoveries and creations. I hope Kulture Kaiwa can provide something useful or interesting for whoever wanders into it.
explore the beauty of JAPAN
Hostel & Cafe Farolito: A cosy hostel stay in the quiet town of Ukiha, Japan
Of all the hotels and hostels I’ve stayed at in Japan, this humble little hostel was by far my favourite accommodation across the country. With pristine amenities, comfortable beds, friendly locals, and hosts that truly…
Flipper’s Kichijoji: I ate some of the fluffiest pancakes in Tokyo
If you’re on the hunt for a stack of Japan’s famous fluffy pancakes in Tokyo, then add Flipper’s to your list. Flipper’s is a Japanese chain café specializing in those jiggly soufflé pancakes you’ve seen…
Okutama: An easy hike close to Tokyo
When the hustle and bustle of Tokyo is feeling like too much to bear, it’s nice to know that nature escapes are a mere train ride away. Tucked away in the Western corner of Tokyo…
find yourself a FEAST
Ultimate Food Guide to Ukiha, Japan
It’s no secret that Ukiha is my favourite town in Japan, and the main reason is the ridiculous amount of good food available there. If you’re planning a trip to Fukuoka, then a stop in…
Ramen Musashiya: The best ramen I ate while living in Tokyo + Kawagoe Festival
Tokyo is filled to the brim with top notch ramen restaurants, ranging from neat ‘n’ tidy popular chains to haphazard alleyway shops, it’s pretty hard to find a bad bowl. During my 9-month stint living…
My top pastries in Melbourne
I don’t get to Melbourne as often as I’d like but you can bet that when I do make it over there, it’s all about the food. My top priority: a delightful pastry to accompany…
pick up some handy TIPS
Things to know about moving to Japan: 2025
Japan has never been a hotter destination than it is right now, and plenty of us around the world have thought about packing our bags and moving on over at least once in our lives,…
Is Japan the best country for first time solo travellers?
In my personal opinion, the answer is YES, and not just because Japan is an amazing country that the world is currently obsessed with. There are several societal and cultural aspects about Japan that make…
Moving To Japan On A Working Holiday: 5 Tips To Manage Mental Stress For Your Move Abroad
If you’ve just moved or are planning a move abroad, go you! You’ve got an incredibly fulfilling journey ahead. Here’s a few tips to keep yourself mentally and physically healthy during the move. Having done…
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