My name is Mikino Kumagai,

I’m fully Japanese, born and raised in Iwate Prefecture until I was ten. In 2008, my life changed dramatically when I moved to Hawaii without knowing any English. Adapting to a new environment, family, culture, and language was a challenge, but it led to me becoming fluent in both English and Japanese—who knew I’d be bilingual?

I graduated from Beloit College, a small liberal arts school in Wisconsin. My time in the Midwest and participating in an exchange program allowed me to travel the world and embrace diverse cultures. This journey has shaped my identity as a multicultural person.

My passion is to share Japan’s hidden gems—its lesser-known traditions, cultures, and landscapes—with those who are eager to go beyond the usual tourist paths. I want to help you immerse yourself in the true essence of Japan, connecting with the heart of its people and the beauty of its quieter regions.

If you're ready to experience Japan in a way that most visitors never do—interacting with locals, engaging in authentic cultural practices, and embracing the Japanese language—let’s connect. Don’t just visit Japan, experience it.”