Hello,
My name is Kazu Ashida.
I am based in the heart of Japan’s business and cultural hub—Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Today, I am excited to launch this business category on my blog to support international companies looking to expand or source products in Japan.
My Background: Experience You Can Trust
My professional journey is built on a deep understanding of both Western and Japanese cultures.
- Global Experience: I spent about two years studying in Vancouver, Canada, and lived in Arizona, USA, for three years.
During my time in the U.S., I served as a liaison for a Japanese company, primarily focusing on purchasing and sourcing operations.
Additionally, I spent six months in France as a buyer.
These long-term stays in the West have given me a profound understanding of Western business mindsets and cultural nuances. - Deep Cultural Insights & On-the-Ground Presence: I have had the privilege of guiding over 5,500 international guests, primarily through cultural experiences and tourism in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
While these interactions were centered around sharing Japan’s rich heritage, they provided me with an invaluable asset: the ability to bridge the gap between subtle Japanese nuances and the practical expectations of global visitors.
I have mastered more than just “translation”; I specialize in “navigating the unspoken” in Japan—a skill that is essential for successful business communication.
Having worked at the forefront of cross-cultural interaction, I have solved countless challenges to ensure smooth and effective communication.
Why I Started This Business Blog
Through my extensive interactions with international guests, I realized a recurring challenge: Business travelers also face significant difficulties navigating Japan’s complex business customs and on-site logistics.
“How do I find a trustworthy partner?” “How can I ensure my meetings at trade shows go smoothly?”
I am convinced that my hands-on experience can provide the answers to these critical business concerns. This is why I decided to dedicate this blog to business support.
What to Expect: Real Insights from the Field
I will not be sharing just surface-level information. I aim to provide the “Realities of Doing Business in Japan” from a field-oriented perspective, including:
- Practical guides to Japanese business culture and etiquette.
- Insights on trade shows and supplier verification.
- Tips for navigating the Japanese market as a foreign entity.
My Goal: Being Your Eyes and Ears in Japan
My mission is to act as a seamless bridge, helping overseas companies better understand the Japanese market and maximize their business opportunities.
I am here to serve as your “trusted eyes and ears in Japan,” supporting your challenges with full commitment.
Continue Reading
👉 Is an Interpreter Enough When Doing Business in Japan?
Many companies visiting Japan first look for an interpreter.
But successful business communication often requires more than translation.
Read the full article here:
👉 Is an Interpreter Enough When Doing Business in Japan
If you would like to connect, feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn.