When Etsuko Nishimura  first began studying English as an elementary-schooler in Wakayama, she never imagined that her love for the language would one day guide people from all over the world through the wonders of Japan. Yet today, Nishimura has become one of Tokyo’s most thoughtful cultural tour guides, creating unforgettable experiences that connect visitors from all over the world to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Nishimura is a true Japanese native, born and raised in W

Alicia Rueb  has always been an adventurer. Since the moment she stepped outside of her country’s borders for the first time, she knew that she wanted to see the world. Little did she know though, in seventh grade, that this very desire for discovery—for places, people, and culture—would eventually bring her across the world, and even guide her to her new home: Japan. Alicia is not originally from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo—in fact, her hometown is quite the opposite. S

Amanda Aro ’s story is the furthest thing from linear. From an unexpectedly shut down animation studio to her own illustrations, or a cross-continental move from tiny Victoria, Canada to bustling Tokyo, Japan, Aro’s life has taken her across many surprising roads. Yet, through every step of her journey, every twist has been turned into a source of inspiration and expression. Originally from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, Aro is no stranger to the art scene. In fact, she

For Naoko Hidaka , language is more than words. Language is the bridge between people, cultures, and identities. Born in Tokyo but raised in Europe, Hidaka grew up incredibly internationally oriented, which would later come to shape her life’s work—although she never imagined herself in front of a classroom before. Although she once described herself as a “not so academic person,” Hidaka is now a renowned teacher for foreign students in Tokyo, guiding students from all over t

When Chris Jeng  left his job at Google and his life in the United States, he never imagined that he would open a completely new chapter,...

When  Michiyo Sato  entered the entertainment industry fresh out of university, she never imagined she would one day shape the fate of...

Craig Chivers  has never believed in limits, whether that be in art, teaching, or even imagination. From flipping through Da Vinci coffee...

When Kyle Sexton stepped into a sushi restaurant in Manhattan for the first time, he had no idea that a singular meal would alter the...

When Isona Kakuchi stepped foot into the bustling halls of a hospital in Niger for the first time, she knew that it was where she was...

When Emiri Iwamoto tightened her karate belt for the first time as an elementary schooler, she had no idea that she would become the face...

Sarah Chung has forged her own definition of the word ‘career-woman’: a woman that can pursue any career. From the entertainment industry to a successful jewelry boutique to an author, Chung has truly done it all and made her mark on every corner of the globe.  Chung was born in Seoul, South Korea, growing up there until her university years. Since her childhood, she recalls being very ambitious, feeling inspired by the business and marketing field very early in life. Mesmeri

Makoto Horikawa ’s life changed when her mother took her to a dance class for the first time. She became entranced by the passionate...

When Yuko Mochizuki  first moved to Africa from Japan in 2008, she could not have imagined creating her own company let alone one that...