Actor Orlando Bloom poses in front of Tokyo’s historic Kaminarimon ‘Thunder Gate’ to celebrate British Airways launching the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its route between London Heathrow and Narita, Tokyo.
The British star joined British Airways crew at the famous monument outside the ancient temple of Sensō-ji, in Asakusa.
The Lord of the Rings actor flew in for the iconic photocall to mark the Dreamliner’s launch on the route – and also took part in an exclusive Q&A to speak about his career, love of travel and fascination with Japan.
In this handout image provided by British Airways, Orlando Bloom in Tokyo to celebrate the launch of the new 787-9 aircraft to Narita, Tokyo on August 19, 2016 at Tokyo, Japan.
What’s your reaction to the new First cabin on the 787-9?
The First cabin on the 787-9 is spacious, comfortable and private. It is a great travelling experience.
What makes flying BA different to any other airline?
British Airways offers a great British experience – I enjoy the afternoon tea on board, it’s a home away from home while travelling.
What trips do you have on your bucket list?
I would love to explore more of India, and Iceland looks like an incredible place to visit. The Blue Lagoon looks beautiful. Fortunately, British Airways travels to both.
Where would you like to go, off the beaten track?
Everest Base Camp has been a place I’ve always wanted to visit.
We know you’re a fan of Japan – why do you think so many people fall in love with this country?
The people are kind, the culture is fascinating and the food is wonderful – the whole experience is totally unique.
For anyone who hasn’t visited, please can you give us five things you must do on visiting the country?
Not many people think of Japan as a place to go for great snowboarding, the powder snow in Hokkaido is like no other.
Harajuku is great fun for shops and cultural experience in Tokyo.
Mount Fuji recently became a World Heritage Site, it’s a beautiful view to see, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are out.
I enjoy an evening run around Imperial Palace in Tokyo with its stunning views. Especially after a long flight, I find exercise really helps combat jetlag.
I visited Senso-ji last night for the first time, even if you’re only in Japan for a few hours, it’s definitely worth a visit. My top tip is to visit in the evening when it is very tranquil.
How adventurous are you when it comes to trying new foods? What are the strangest dishes you’ve tried on your travels? And how about in Japan?
I’m very adventurous. I always like to experience new tastes when I am travelling, nothing is out of bounds. In Japan, I love to try Okonomiyaki. (Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake and a festival dish)
If you weren’t an actor, which job would you have liked?
I wouldn’t change what I do for the world because I love it. It awards me the opportunity to travel the world, experience different cultures and in so doing broadens my horizons.
Who would be the best– person to sit next to on a flight?
Muhammad Ali, he was an inspiration.
How do the fans in Japan compare to the rest of the world?
There’s a sincerity and sweetness to the fans in Japan. Every time I come I am blown away by their thoughtfulness and generosity.
We heard a bit of your Japanese during your intro speech. Would you like to learn the language properly and how many words do you know already?
I love languages! I’d love to learn Japanese. I know a handful of phrases but would love to learn more.
About Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is the most technologically advanced aircraft in British Airways fleet and it also features the new First cabin.
Thanks to the built-in sensors that counter the effects of turbulence, it offers a smoother ride than any other aircraft as it helps reducing nausea for customers who suffer from motion sickness.
With lower cabin air pressure than traditional aircraft, customers will notice an increased amount of oxygen and moisture in the cabin air, which helps to reduce the effects of jet-lag and dry eyes.