How I Carved My Path to “Connecting with the World”
Aspiration for International Work and My First Setback
When I was in high school, I dreamed of working to support developing countries, so I joined a Japanese water utility company. They were involved in international aid projects, and I hoped to eventually take part in one myself.
Reality, however, wasn’t so kind. My English wasn’t strong, and I lacked the specialized knowledge about water systems. I found it hard to contribute effectively and felt a constant sense of urgency. Over time, I realized how unprepared I was and started to drift away from my original dream.
A Spark that Reconnected Me to the International Scene
After stepping away from that dream, I moved through several industries—drone and underwater ROV sales, agricultural supplies, and a venture startup, among others. My responsibilities ranged from PR and sales to business development and negotiations with manufacturers, and I found myself increasingly working with overseas partners. Before long, English and Chinese became part of my daily routine.
Around that time, I developed an interest in houseplants, which led me to launch my own online store.
Deepening Global Connections
I started the online store simply because I couldn’t find the kind of plant pots I wanted in Japan. Thinking there must be others facing the same issue, I decided to source directly from international artists and sell their work. This marked the beginning of my EC brand “KINOHACHI.”
As I continued growing the business, I was appointed the exclusive representative in Japan for a Taiwanese lifestyle brand, which propelled my overseas dealings forward. I also built close ties with ceramic artists in Taiwan. Whenever they visited Japan, they’d make a point of meeting me, and we’d exchange gifts. Even though my English wasn’t perfect, I realized I had made genuine friends overseas.
Building a “System” for Global Collaboration
Through these experiences, I learned there isn’t just one way to do business internationally.
I’m not perfectly fluent in English, nor do I possess highly specialized technical skills. But by focusing on product storytelling, strategic PR, and sales approaches tailored to the Japanese market, I discovered I could create real connections with overseas businesses and deliver meaningful value.
Those insights are what inspired me to create “DNAi.”
The Role of DNAi
DNAi offers support for foreign companies looking to enter the Japanese market smoothly. Our services include translating and localizing press releases, managing effective PR distribution, and providing market-specific strategic advice.
The “D” in DNAi stands for Discovery, “N” for New, “A” for Ambition, and “i” for Intelligence.
Japan can feel like uncharted territory for companies seeking to expand globally. By combining my own experiences with AI tools, I help overseas businesses connect with the Japanese market, opening doors to new opportunities, new partnerships, and new value.
Not Just “Working Internationally,” But Creating a System for Global Connection
I once aimed to work directly abroad, but in the end, I found a different way: building a system that bridges overseas companies with the Japanese market.
This story isn’t just my own personal journey. Many global businesses share a common question: “How can our products gain acceptance in Japan?” Through my own experiences, I arrived at some answers. Now, turning those answers into a service has become my new mission.
From here on, I’ll keep developing systems that connect Japan with the rest of the world.