Springboks star Cheslin Kolbe and his family have officially landed in Japan, ready to embrace another holiday season far from home.
His wife, Layla Kolbe, shared the news on Instagram, giving fans a glimpse into their festive routine and the bittersweet feelings of leaving South Africa behind.
Saying Goodbye to South Africa Is Never Easy
Layla opened up about the emotions of leaving Cape Town for the ninth time during the holidays.
“Japan take 3 🇯🇵. What a year in SA, especially for the kids—beautiful friendships, teachers they adored, a sense of home, and so many memories.
Leaving that behind makes the goodbyes so much heavier,” she wrote.
Missing a family wedding added to the emotional weight, but Layla emphasized their gratitude for the opportunities Cheslin’s rugby career continues to provide.
The family is now adjusting to the time difference, with jet lag and hunger mixing in humorous fashion: “Awake at 1:30 a.m., starving because our ‘dinner’ was actually breakfast according to our body clocks.
God bless another season in Japan. Psalm 91:11 🙏🏽🙌🏽.”
Why Japan Has Become Home Away From Home
Cheslin Kolbe has been based in Tokyo for his career, playing for Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan Rugby League One.
While Cheslin has been away during the year, Layla and the kids—Kylah (6), Mila Sky (3), and Cayden (1)—have stayed in Cape Town, maintaining their home life in South Africa.
This year has been another chapter of long-distance family life for them.
Capturing Memories Before the Journey
Just days before their departure, Layla shared a heartwarming snapshot of the kids’ last day of school for the year.
Her post highlighted the contrast between their South African routines and the new adventures awaiting in Japan.
It’s clear that even with the distance, the family cherishes every milestone and moment together.
Adjusting to Life Back in Japan
For the Kolbes, the festive season in Japan is both familiar and unique.
Each year brings new challenges of jet lag, cultural differences, and missing loved ones, but it also brings exciting experiences and opportunities.
For fans following their journey, it’s a reminder of the sacrifices behind a professional athlete’s career and the resilience of family bonds.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn