Welcome

Hello, and welcome! If you’re reading this, you might be dreaming about moving to Japan after 40 — or perhaps even in your 50s or 60s. Life rarely follows a straight path, and starting fresh in a new country can feel both exciting and overwhelming. My own story has been filled with unexpected turns, but every experience has given me the resilience and empathy I now bring to guiding others on their journey to Japan.

Growing Up Surrounded by Hospitality

My story begins in a rather unusual home: a hotel on Sado Island, run by my family.

Raised by my resilient single father, I grew up amidst the bustle of guests and relatives. From a young age, I learned what it meant to welcome people and make them feel at home.

This foundation led me into hospitality — first as a bridal advisor, and later as a hotel executive. Helping people through life’s most important moments taught me the value of both meticulous planning and heartfelt service.

20 Years of Supporting Foreigners in Japan

From the hotel my grandfather founded on Sado Island to the English conversation school I now run, my life has been shaped by hospitality and cross-cultural exchange. Along the way, I’ve met countless foreigners who supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow. Now, as I focus on helping others who are moving to Japan after 40, I see it as my turn to give back — to provide the same guidance and encouragement that once carried me forward.

Resilience Forged Through Life’s Storms

Life, of course, isn’t without trials. Shortly after getting married, I was in a serious car accident while nine months pregnant.

Those months in the NICU with my newborn son tested me more than I ever imagined. The fear and uncertainty were overwhelming, but that time also taught me the depth of resilience and empathy we can discover within ourselves.

It’s this same strength I now bring to guiding others: understanding the weight of navigating a new system, in a new place, during high-stakes moments.

When Life Forces a New Beginning

Four years ago, I went through one of the hardest chapters of my life — losing my father during the pandemic and watching my family’s longtime hotel close its doors. For a while, I felt as if I had lost both my roots and my direction. But those experiences taught me something important: when life feels unbearably heavy, moving forward — even to a new place — can open the door to healing. Three years ago, I chose to start over in a new home, and it reminded me how profoundly a change of environment can change our outlook. That is why I believe so strongly in the power of starting fresh — even in midlife.

A New Chapter — and an Invitation

Today, I’m in another new chapter. My father — the rock of my childhood — has passed on. My two sons are grown, one starting his career in Japan, the other studying abroad. With the house quieter, I’ve asked myself the same question many of you may be asking: What’s next for me?

My answer is this blog. With decades of experience behind me, I see the road ahead as full of opportunity to share, teach, and encourage.

Let’s Take This Journey Together

Resilience isn’t about being unbreakable; it’s about moving forward with courage after life takes unexpected turns.

So if you’re dreaming of Japan — whether you’re preparing to move, or just beginning to explore the idea — know this: you don’t have to do it alone.

I’m here to share my experience, empathy, and practical guidance to help you build a new beginning filled with confidence and joy.

Thank you for being here. Let’s embrace the journey ahead, together.

🌸 Warmly,
Ayako