Profiles Of

Our Ambassadors

Ambassadors living in each region share the true charm of their areas from their unique perspectives.

Mashiko, Tochigi

Yuki Hayase

Originally from Moka City, Tochigi Prefecture, with experience living in the U.S. and Taiwan, she is the owner of the bake shop and cafe Midnight Breakfast. Known for being the earliest to open and close in the area, the cafe serves a unique blend of American-style cookies made with locally sourced Tochigi ingredients and authentic Taiwanese milk tea. Beyond food and drinks, the cafe embodies "Local × Upcycling × Breakfast," building community—a creative hub connecting people and ideas.

Photo © Midnight Breakfast

Yukiyo Kaneko

The owner of the blueberry farm "Blueberry, Satoyama and...". Bathed in plenty of sunlight, the farm features around 40 varieties of blueberries, offering a fresh, juicy taste straight from nature. While savoring the delicious berries, visitors can paint on a large canvas, relax, and soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Under the bright blue sky, people return year after year to create unforgettable summer memories.

Sakai, Osaka

Eric Chevallier

Born in France, he is a blacksmith specializing in Japanese knives and the owner of DE SAKAI, a brand known for its traditional Japanese knives and kitchen tools. After arriving in Japan in 2012, he undertook an intensive apprenticeship under a master of traditional Sakai bladesmithing. In recognition of his role as a cultural bridge for Japanese bladesmithing in France, he was honored with the “Star of Hope” award by the French government. He currently serves as the “Foreign Market Development Coordinator” at the Sakai City Industrial Promotion Center.