When Eriko Miyawaki agreed to bake for her daughter’s kindergarten class almost thirteen years ago, she had no idea that she would begin a baking career on that day. Today, with over a decade of experience, Miyawaki is a renowned baker, teaching the art of treat-making to hundreds of students in Japan, as well as baking desserts for people all across Tokyo—of course, still including her daughter’s now grown-up classmates. Miyawaki was born and raised in Yokohama, the Kanagaw

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

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

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