Have you ever felt as if you were in a minefield while talking with your Japanese colleagues? If you have, you are not alone — and you have come t0 the right place!

Who we are and why we do this

My name is Maya Matsuoka, Chief Enthusiast Officer and Principal Consultant of Japan Expert Insights. A Tokyo-based multi-lingual Bulgarian, I have lived and worked in Japan for 23 years.

I graduated from Sofia University, the national University of Bulgaria, while working for a company which organized international conventions, cultural & adventure tours for inbound visitors. Since then, I have worked in the IT,
translation, and travel industries. I have been engaged in meeting & convention management, communications and marketing.

Four years ago, I happened to meet many expatriates in Japan and they all seemed to have some common concerns. The didn’t understand what their Japanese colleagues wouldn’t discuss important issues at meetings. They felt excluded from the decision-making process and couldn’t connect well (if at all) with their Japanese employees. These frustrations were intensified by but not the result of Japanese language skills. They had a deeper cause. This was the difference between cultural values, traditions and practices that still shape business and everyday life all around the world.

So I created Japan Expert Insights as a resource of knowledge and information for people who were new to Japan. The idea was to tap into the expertise of experienced Japan hands. This would help those who were new to the country to find answers to questions and solutions to frustrations, coming from the specific nature of Japan’s business environment.

Thanks to this venture, I have been fortunate to meet some of the best professionals who have worked in Japan and learn from them. I am grateful for the continued support of Tim Sullivan, Timothy Langley, Prof. Stephen Nagy, Richard Berger, Tomoko Mitsuoka (三岡　智子), Yuka Marosek, CFA, and many others. The community of Japan Expert Insights continues to grow. My deep gratitude goes to everyone who has engaged with us and continues to support us.

Our Purpose

Through Japan Expert Insights, I also wanted to feature professionals who have profound expertise in topics related to Japan. Through the years, I have been able to move forward thanks to the tremendous help and support I received from my Japanese colleagues and friends.

Moving on into intercultural consulting is my way to give back by helping businesspersons find their way and be strategic in their work in this fascinating country.

Our Mission

At Japan Expert Insights, we are committed to:

• Sharing expert insights on Japanese business, society, and cross-cultural communication

• Supporting international professionals in navigating Japanese corporate culture

• Promoting meaningful dialogue between Japan and the world

Why It Matters

My own journey in Japan has been shaped by the kindness, mentorship, and wisdom of my Japanese colleagues and friends. Japan Expert Insights is my way of giving back—by helping others chart their path and work more strategically in this fascinating country.

Whether you’re looking for cultural consulting, expert-led workshops, or simply some trusted advice, we’re here for you.

Explore, Learn, and Connect

Take a moment to explore our articles, video library, and expert interviews. These are not just resources—they’re real insights from professionals with decades of on-the-ground experience in Japan.

And as for me? I’m still an observer, a life-long learner, and a grateful guest in this incredible country.

Let’s connect. If you have a project in mind, a challenge to tackle, or simply want to join the success—reach out, let’s talk about how we can help you.

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