What do a woodcarving master, three Bonenkai, and blindfolded chess have in common? They all taught me something this week.

Year-end in Japan is a whirlwind of gratitude, reflection, and connection—and even though I’m thousands of miles away now, those traditions still shape how I close out the year.

This season reminded me how much timing and intention matter. Sometimes, opportunities feel like synchrodestiny: the right people, the right moment, the right conversation. I’ve seen that in my work too, especially when bridging Japanese HR practices with U.S. norms. What feels perfectly reasonable in Tokyo can be a lawsuit in San Francisco, and navigating that gap takes more than compliance, it takes cultural fluency and empathy.

This week, I’m reflecting on three very different experiences that share a common thread: perspective. From watching Rental Family with Brendan Fraser and thinking about belonging, to mentoring Japanese startups in Silicon Valley, to finding winter magic in Kenrokuen Garden, I explore how mirrors appear in unexpected places.

And right now, I’m in full Bonenkai mode! Those year-end gatherings in Japan where we “forget the year” and celebrate what’s ahead. You’ll read more about that next week!

Edition 25 is here!
As winter settles in, I’m reflecting on the small comforts that make this season special, and the conversations shaping how we work and live. From a delicate winter dish to thoughts on cross-cultural HR and workplace wellness, plus a nod to roasted chestnuts, this edition is all about warmth and connection.

Feeling grateful this Thanksgiving for the chance to share stories that matter, from cozy Japanese winter traditions to why creating learning that truly resonates is at the heart of what we do at Japan Consulting Office. And for a little adventure, I took you off the beaten path in Kamakura to a hidden shrine where history meets nature.

I’ve just wrapped up writing about some amazing experiences from last week, conversations that made me think, flavors that surprised me, and ideas that sparked new plans. From an evening with Jake Adelstein to exploring HR trends across borders, tasting craft chocolate at TCHO, and even diving into the playful world of Kaomoji, it’s been a mix of depth and delight.

I also had energizing coffee chats with the Transform HR community and GLOBIS as we look ahead to next year. With Thanksgiving around the corner, I’m feeling grateful for these connections and the chance to keep learning.

I can’t believe this newsletter has grown to 1,500 subscribers! Thank you for being part of this journey!

As winter settles in, I’ve been reflecting on the small rituals that make this season special, the relationships that shape our work, and the flavors that bring a little joy to everyday life. From cozy evenings to sweet discoveries, this week’s stories are all about connection and comfort.

From Japanese elementary schools to Silicon Valley startups, this week’s newsletter explores the unexpected places where leadership, creativity, and cross-cultural insight intersect.

I reflect on what we can learn from Japan’s classrooms, why hiring the right local HR talent is critical for global teams, and how Japan’s innovators are making waves in the Bay Area.

Plus, a fun dive into Japan’s manhole cover art, and a teaser from last night’s Japan Society event with Jake Adelstein, where he introduced his new book The Devil Takes Bitcoin.

Happy Halloween!

This week wrapped up a whirlwind of events that reminded me how meaningful it is to simply show up.

From the elegant Japan Society Gala at the Hyatt near SFO, where tradition met transformation, to volunteering at the CGJ/JCCNC U.S.-Japan Dual-Use Tech Seminar focused on the space sector, I’ve been lucky to witness the energy driving US-Japan collaboration firsthand.

I had fun remembering Tokyo Halloween celebrations that were equal parts spooky and adorable. And just last night, I joined a pitch event hosted by JETRO and Tokyo Metro, where Japanese startups showcased bold ideas for the future.

As autumn settles in, I’ve been reflecting on the rhythms of Japanese winter and the quiet wisdom that comes with seasonal change.

This week’s newsletter touches on kotatsu living, a thought-provoking Japanese proverb, the joy of Sports Day, and a few upcoming events, including the Japan Society Gala and a pitch event featuring 10 innovative Japanese startups in SF.

If you're curious about culture, connection, and global business, I’d love for you to read along. Have a restful, cozy weekend!

A Week of Connection, Culture, and Capsule Surprises!

This week reminded me how meaningful connections can show up in the most unexpected places.

• I reunited with a longtime friend in Nashville, my middle school pen pal who helped me learn English. Decades later, we’re still sharing stories and laughter.

• I wrote about joining the Sliders & Sake event during SF Tech Week, where great food met great company.

• The Gachapon machine at the event inspired me to write some more about this fun toy dispenser!

This week, I’ve been reflecting on the journeys that shape us, whether it’s a quiet train ride through Nikkō, a bento box that tells a regional story, or the cultural bridges we build in the workplace.

From exploring the feedback gap between Japanese jinji and U.S. HR, to supporting global talent development from Tokyo to Texas, I’m reminded how movement whether it be across borders, ideas, and industries, can lead to deeper understanding and growth.
Thanks for traveling with me!

This week has been all about connection: across cultures, communities, and even train tracks.

- I reflected on the Tabemasho event in SF Japantown, where food and friendship came together at the JCCNC gold sponsor table.
- I shared my journey From Komatsu to California, tracing the path from being a JET in rural Ishikawa to building a cross-cultural career with USJETAA.
- And, I embraced the joy of living with a Densha Otaku, because Japanese trains are more than transit; they’re a cultural adventure.