ORGANIzeRS
Elena (Elena Tsukada)
Co-Founder of TADAIMA SHIMODA / Digital Nomads Tokyo
After working at a global PR agency, I found ELENTO LLC in 2020. Based in Shimoda, leading Global PR and Regional Co-Creation projects. My company supports global firms and NGOs, and connects Shimoda with the world as a board member of Japan Digital Nomad Association. I’m the co-founder of Digital Nomads Tokyo and TADAIMA SHIMODA.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
The people — friends who face forward with me, and the warmth of being gently watched over.
Haren (Haren Tambi)
Chief Happiness Manager
I love putting my heart and soul into working for vibrant coliving communities. As the Community Manager of Sokkool Coliving and Coworking in Bali, I create spaces where remote workers don’t just stay — they thrive. With a passion for building meaningful connections, I curate events, conversations, and cultural experiences that turn strangers into chosen families.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
It’s super chill yet beautiful.
Maru (Chiaki Yasumaru )
Assistant Chief Happiness Manager
Hi, I’m Maru. Based between Osaka and Shimoda, I’ve fallen in love with Shimoda’s nature and people.
I work in SNS marketing and account consulting, and I love creating connections online and offline.
My goal is to make every place feel like home. And yes—I can make takoyaki and okonomiyaki!
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
A beautiful sea, mountains, hot springs, a cozy town, and warm people.
TADAIMA Friends
DJ Pleasure (Yutaka Miyazaki)
DJ Pleasure a.k.a Yutaka Miyazaki
Started DJing back in 1999, playing everything from local parties like Colors to global platforms like NYC’s Frisky Radio. My style is rooted in the classic vibes of places like The Loft and Paradise Garage — always driven by a deep love for music and real respect for DJ culture.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
Shimoda’s got perfect weather, great food, and the ocean breeze hits just right. My favorite spot is the massive SO-KO called WITH A TREE.
Kei chan (Kei Wada)
Master of Ceremony / Local Project Manager
Hello, good evening, and good morning! My name is Kei Wada, and I run the Magonote English School. Four years ago, I left the company I was working for as an English instructor in Hamamatsu to follow my dream of starting my own school—and that brought me to Shimoda! Ever since moving here, I’ve felt like I’ve entered the bonus stage of life, and I’ve been living freely and joyfully. My hobbies include touring, driving, watching movies, singing, and collecting board games (though I don’t necessarily play them)
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
Elder people! Seafood! Ocean! Nature! Elena!
Kimi chan (Kimiko Yumoto)
Social Media / CEO of my household.
Based in Shimoda, Izu, I am a community storyteller and freelance PR professional.
I’m passionate about sustainable living, inclusive education, and creating spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can connect.
I work to share the beauty of local life through digital media and real-life conversations.。
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
It’s a quiet place surrounded by nature, and I really love the relaxed pace of life here. Watching the ocean every day makes me feel peaceful.
Tsuru san (Shizuo Tsurusaki)
CEO, Kazemachi LLC / Head of Kazemachi Shimoda
Leaving my architecture & cafe career in Tokyo, I moved to Shimoda for a ‘hands-on life.’ Here, I farm, restore homes & write. I launched Kazemachi Shimoda, a hub connecting life, work & future, and live with my family.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
Shimoda’s best: nature, history, people, food. Plus onsen & beaches. A great, compact, livable town.
Tatsuki (Tatsuki Matsuhashi)
Photographer / Barista / Communication Designer
Based in the Shimoda area of Izu, I work as a photographer and barista, combining skills in visual production, space design, and experience planning. I create projects and spaces that highlight the unique charm of the region. Rather than seeking quick results, I take a long-term approach to building environments where people naturally gather and feel inspired to connect and engage.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
Where nature and good food are always close by—and where I can take on new challenges with interesting people!
Ume chan (Naoki Umeda)
Warehouse producer / Father of Shimoda
I’m a local guy in my 50s doing what I love. I run a consulting business and a warehouse space for community projects.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
People, Nature, localSnacks
Kiki (Kiki Fukai)
Self-declared Ambassador of Shimoda / Chief of Sunshine
I’m a personal branding coach, and I’ve travelled to more than 60 countries. After working as a producer at the Tokyo Olympic Games, I now teach creators and entrepreneurs how to build an honest personal brand using nothing but a smartphone. Nobody appointed me ambassador of Shimoda — I just started telling the world about it and never stopped.
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
People + Nature
Bayashi (Koki Wakabayashi)
Employee
I’m Koki Wakabayashi, but friends call me Bayashi. I’m from Shimoda and moved back in January 2025. I manage an e-commerce site that shares local charm—work I truly enjoy. I love driving, hot springs, drinking, and swimming in the sea!
What I love about Izu–Shimoda
Driving here is so much fun! With so many sights and local spots to explore, one weekend just isn’t enough.
