Yu-chan
| Language(s) | : | English |
|---|---|---|
| Expertise | : | Food Culture |
| Qualification | : | Itinerary management supervisor |
Born in Kyoto and shaped by years of living in Europe, I specialize in private tours and professional interpreting services for VIP travellers, executives, and culturally discerning guests.
Over the years, I have built extensive experience supporting high-level business meetings, negotiations, and executive visits between Japanese and international clients. My interpreting work has included luxury hospitality brands, distinguished traditional craft houses in Kyoto, and academic institutions, giving me strong insight into business, culture, and international communication at the highest level.
With a professional background in international business, finance, and language education, I bring a broad understanding of investment, cross-cultural negotiation, and global perspectives. I am a TESOL-qualified English instructor, fluent in Arabic (C2), and a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu.
I also maintain an active role in Kyoto’s cultural world, serving as MC for Noh theatre programs and the Aoi Matsuri, one of Kyoto’s most prestigious festivals.
My aim is to offer privileged access to Kyoto through culture, gastronomy, craftsmanship, and meaningful connections beyond ordinary sightseeing.
Specialties:
VIP & luxury private tours / Business interpretation / Executive visits / Fine dining & kaiseki / Noh & traditional arts / Nishijin weaving & craftsmanship / Fashion & contemporary culture / Arabic-speaking guests
Guide's Calendar
Performance
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Explaining Nishijin Weaving to Slack Co-founder Cal Henderson — From Jacquard Looms to the Origins of Modern Computing
In 2025, I introduced Cal Henderson, co-founder of Slack, to the history and craftsmanship of Nishijin weaving in Kyoto. I explained how the Jacquard loom’s punch-card system became an early prototype of programmable machines, linking traditional weaving to modern computing. This created a unique dialogue between Kyoto’s craft heritage and technological innovation.
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Interpretation for Belmond CEO Dan Ruff during an official visit to Kawashima Selkon, bridging global luxury hospitality and Kyoto’s traditional textile craftsmanship
In 2026, I provided interpretation support during the Kyoto visit of Dan Ruff, CEO of Belmond, the world-renowned luxury hospitality brand within the LVMH group. As part of the visit, I accompanied him to Kawashima Selkon Textiles Co., Ltd., one of Kyoto’s most prestigious textile houses, known for its long-standing contribution to Japanese craftsmanship and design.
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