This Is Our Story

Through my study abroad experience in Canada, my work as a Japanese language teacher, and my time as a tour guide, I have met people from all over the world.

One thing I hear again and again is that many visitors are not looking for famous tourist attractions anymore. They have already seen the temples, castles, and popular sightseeing spots. What they really want is to experience everyday life in Japan.

They want to know what Japanese people actually do with their friends and families. Things like gathering around a hot pot, making home-cooked meals together, or even taking purikura photos—small experiences that may seem ordinary to us, but are completely new and unique to many visitors.

That is why I started Ichigo Ichie Kitchen.

I wanted to create a place where travelers could experience a side of Japan that cannot be found in guidebooks or tourist attractions. A place where people can share food, stories, and genuine connections with local people.

To me, this is the true meaning of "Ichigo Ichie"—a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that becomes a lasting memory.