International Exchange: Visit by Takahisa Sakurai of the Japan Seattle ABC Network

On July 29, 2026, Aoyama Business School (ABS) was delighted to welcome Takahisa Sakurai, Founder and Board President of the Japan Seattle ABC Network, during his visit to Japan from Seattle.

The meeting was attended by Dean Taka Hosoda, David Nichols, and Kayoung Kim. It provided an excellent opportunity for a highly productive and engaging exchange of ideas.

Under Mr. Sakurai’s leadership, the Japan Seattle ABC Network offers enrichment programs designed to make the experience of Japanese students in Seattle academically stimulating, culturally immersive, and business-oriented. These activities provide an outstanding platform for students to step outside their comfort zones, deepen their understanding of Seattle’s history and culture, and broaden their perspectives as they prepare for their future careers.

Examples of the programs offered include:

• ・Company visits: Opportunities to visit major global companies based in the Seattle area, including Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, as well as distinctive local businesses.
• ・Hands-on business experience: "Business operations experiences" offered in collaboration with local restaurants such as Indigo Cow and Secret Fort, through which students participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of business initiatives.
• ・Seminars led by Japanese professionals: Opportunities to learn directly from professionals who have built careers in Seattle, with a particular focus on cross-cultural adaptation and an entrepreneurial mindset.
• ・Cultural and language exchange: Informal networking opportunities with local residents through shared meals, board games, and other activities.

We deeply share Mr. Sakurai’s vision: "Let’s Build Something Meaningful Together." We are excited to explore the synergies we can create as we work toward developing the next generation of global leaders. Mr. Sakurai also kindly offered his support for our next study program in Seattle.

Mr. Sakurai, thank you very much for taking the time to visit ABS. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to working with you!