We had a lovely chat with Rachel and Jun about their story, from their early beginnings to how their videos continue to inspire people around the world. We’ve gathered and crafted their reflections into this special feature, so you can experience their story in a way that feels just like their videos: warm, genuine, and full of heart. In this exclusive interview with Sakuraco, Rachel and Jun share how their channel began, the moments that shaped their path, and how their experiences continue to connect people everywhere with everyday life in Japan.
From Studying Abroad to YouTube Partners
Rachel and Jun’s story began long before YouTube fame. Rachel first came to Japan as a study abroad student at Jun’s university, where he worked as a resident assistant helping international students adjust to life in Japan. “Jun jokes that he’s still an RA fifteen years later; it just stands for Rachel’s Assistant now,” Rachel laughed.
What began as a cultural exchange quickly evolved into a relationship founded on communication and mutual understanding. “Sometimes the cultural differences surprised us,” Jun shared. “But each time that happened, we talked it through and got to know each other better.” Those moments of culture shock turned into meaningful experiences that shaped not only their relationship but also the kind of content they create today.
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures
Building a Channel Rooted in Curiosity
When Rachel suggested starting a YouTube channel, they had no idea how far it would take them. Their early videos explored the topics they often talked about together, such as culture, language, food, and daily life in Japan. Around the same time, Jun began creating cooking videos on his channel, Jun’s Kitchen, combining his love of food and animals in what became his signature style.
“Rachel wanted to share her experiences in a way that could be helpful for people interested in Japan,” Jun said. “Even now, the idea that we can casually connect with someone on the other side of the world feels amazing.” From those early college days, their YouTube journey evolved into a well-known channel that offers international viewers a glimpse into modern Japanese life.
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures
The Joys of Filming Together
When asked which video was the most fun to film, Rachel said “fun” can mean different things. “Sometimes the planning is the most fun part, like when we did the Idiot’s Guides. You can’t help but laugh when brainstorming those ideas,” she explained. “But anything with our cats is by far the most fun to edit. Who doesn’t want to look through tons of cat footage?”
For Jun, the joy comes from cooking. “When I create a new recipe for Rachel and our cats and they enjoy it, that makes me really happy,” he said. “It’s a fun challenge and one of the most rewarding parts of making videos.”
Even after years of creating content, they still maintain a lighthearted tone. “Our audience can definitely tell when I’ve had a lot of caffeine before filming,” Rachel joked. “I’m actually pretty quiet off-camera. Jun talks way more than I do!”
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures
Connecting with Viewers Around the World
Rachel and Jun’s audience spans across continents, and the messages they receive from fans mean a lot to them. “A recent comment I really loved was from someone who said our videos inspired her to raise her cats with patience and curiosity,” Rachel said. “That kind of message reminds me why we started making videos in the first place.” Jun added that it always warms his heart when viewers try his recipes. “It makes me happy to know someone enjoyed cooking because they watched my videos,” he shared.
Their openness about cultural differences has also made them relatable to many international couples. “It’s not always easy to navigate language barriers or communication struggles,” Jun said. “But every message we get from viewers in similar relationships reminds us that our story can bring comfort, laughter, or a sense of connection.”
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures
Seeing Japan Through New Eyes
For Rachel, making videos has deepened her appreciation for Japan. “Filming gave me the motivation to see more of the country than I would have otherwise,” she explained. “People have been so welcoming everywhere we go. If you just read experiences online about Japan, you might think it’s a country that’s closed off to foreigners, but I’ve been to more than half the prefectures in the country now, and that’s just never been my experience at all.”
Jun shared that their most memorable moments are often unplanned. “Sometimes our cats completely steal the spotlight, or a small misunderstanding turns into a funny story that viewers love,” he said. “It’s really touching when people tell us our videos made them smile during difficult times.”
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures!
Off-Camera Life and Simple Joys
Off-screen, Rachel and Jun are just as genuine as they seem online. Rachel laughed that she has “an unexpected fascination with dental hygiene,” while Jun spends his free time experimenting with healthy recipes that Rachel enjoys. “It’s been part of my daily routine for years,” he said.
When asked what they’d recommend for first-time visitors to Japan, Rachel didn’t hesitate. “The momiji light-up event at Korankei in Aichi Prefecture,” she said. “An entire hillside of maple trees glows orange in late fall. It’s an unforgettable experience.”
Discovering Japan Through Flavor
Image via Rachel and Jun’s Adventures
Over the years, Rachel and Jun have also explored countless Japanese snacks on their channel, gaining a deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship. “I always assumed every snack was made by machine,” Rachel admitted, “but seeing how many are still made by hand, using techniques passed down through generations, makes you appreciate them so much more. You’re not just eating a snack, you’re experiencing it.”
She also reflected on Japan’s connection to regional and seasonal flavors. “In Japan, a lot of food is grown locally and it’s seasonal,” Rachel said. “You’re tasting something that represents generations of history and care.”
Just like Rachel and Jun’s thoughtful approach to sharing Japan’s culture, Sakuraco celebrates these same traditions through authentic, regional snacks. Each monthly box features artisanal sweets and treats crafted by local makers, allowing people around the world to experience the heritage of Japanese flavors from home.
Discover More Japanese Flavors with Sakuraco
If you enjoy exploring authentic Japanese cuisine, you’ll love discovering the flavors of traditional snacks through a Sakuraco box. Every month, Sakuraco curates a premium selection of regional snacks and sweets sourced directly from artisans across Japan. Sakuraco focuses on Japanese heritage, local ingredients, and regional flavors, making it a wonderful complement to your at-home exploration of Japanese culture.
👉 Use code RACHELJUN to get $5 off your first box here.
