From Snowy Niigata to the Heart of Kanazawa
Hi again, I’m Yuka!
I grew up in Niigata, a snowy town on the Sea of Japan coast. After high school, I moved to the U.S. to study — a big (and scary!) step that changed my life.
I started at a small women’s college in Missouri, then transferred to SUNY Binghamton in New York and majored in business. The first year was tough. My English wasn’t great. But I met kind friends and gradually found my place. I still treasure those memories.
After graduating, I returned to Japan and worked for a food company, handling overseas business and even visiting Vietnam for work.
Becoming a Mom, and Finding a New Mission
After I got married and had children, I left my job and started a new journey as a mom in Kanazawa.
As a first-time mom, I often felt alone and unsure where to find the right info or support. So I started a nonprofit to make things easier for other parents, and to help us all feel more connected. That was over 25 years ago, and I’m still running it today!
Along the way, I’ve given talks at schools and public events, appeared on radio shows, and served on several city advisory boards.
Design, Writing, and Talking with People
I also run a small design studio where I create websites, brochures, and more. I often write interview-based articles too — talking with people and sharing their stories is something I really enjoy.
I love listening, asking questions, and helping people express what matters to them. Maybe that’s why guiding feels like such a natural fit for me!
My Life Outside Work
I live with my husband, and we have three grown-up kids. They’re all chasing their dreams in their own way, and I couldn’t be prouder.
Travel is something I love. I’ve visited the U.S., Canada, Vietnam, China, South Korea, and Singapore. But I always come home thinking, “Kanazawa is really special.”
As for hobbies:
I’m a book lover! I read novels, essays, and more — and I often spend hours at the Ishikawa Prefectural Library.
I’ve been running for over 15 years now, and I run a full marathon every year (yes, including the Kanazawa Marathon!).
And I’m still studying English through online conversation lessons, because learning never really ends.
Why I guide
Kanazawa isn’t always sunny, in fact, it rains quite a bit, but it’s warm in spirit, rich in culture, and full of quiet beauty.
This city has shaped my life, and I’m so grateful to it. Now, I want to give something back by sharing it with people from around the world.
If you’re curious about Kanazawa beyond the guidebooks, I’d love to show you around. Let’s walk, talk, eat, and explore together!
