My Mission is to

Helping you connect deeper with Japan—through curated trips, cultural insight, and personal connection

I will serve you as your:

  • Trip Advisor

  • Trip Coordinator

  • Personal Interpretor/Translator

  • OR However You Need Me As!

About Mikino

After working in both Japanese and American corporate and hospitality settings, I stopped trying to fit into one box. Instead, I realized — I could bridge the two. I am the connector and  the translator — of language, culture, and values.

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As Japan evolves, so do the opportunities. But you have to remember that Japan is enriched with cultures and traditions that needs to be preserved to continue honoring the uniqueness and beauty of Japan. If your intention and your alignment fits with me, contact me and let's make things work! 

 Whether you're a business owner, creative, or brand seeking to collaborate with Japan, I will help you move forward with clarity and deep cultural respect.

My name is Mikino Kumagai,

I was born in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, and lived there until I was ten years old.

In 2008, my life shifted dramatically when I moved to Hawai’i without knowing a single word of English. Navigating a new culture, language, and family dynamic wasn’t easy—but it shaped who I am today: a bilingual, multicultural person with a deep appreciation for both Japanese and American cultures.

I graduated from Beloit College, a small liberal arts school in Wisconsin. Through my studies and an exchange program, I had the chance to travel to Ecuador, Malawi, and Italy—experiences that broadened my worldview and strengthened my desire to connect across cultures.

Right now, my heart is rooted in Japan. It’s more than just where I’m from—it’s where my identity, purpose, and passions all meet.

While Japan has gained global popularity through things like matcha, convenience store snacks, Mount Fuji, onsen, and anime, I’m here to offer something deeper. If you’re curious about the layers of Japan that go beyond what’s trending—whether it's discovering a hidden town, experiencing a moment that heals your inner child, or finding a story to carry home—I’d love to help guide you there.

My mission is to share Japan’s lesser-known traditions, landscapes, and local stories. I want to help you connect with the true essence of Japan—its people, its slower rhythms, and its heart.

If you're ready to experience Japan in a more personal, meaningful way—interacting with locals, engaging in cultural practices, and embracing the language—let’s connect. Don’t just visit Japan. Feel it. Live it. Take it with you.