A black outline of a video game controller.

Ikigaikan Rotterdam – A Place of Pause, Purpose, and Presence

“Kan” means house or space. Ikigai is the Japanese concept of one’s reason for being. Our mission: to offer a stepping stone for anyone on a journey to more meaning.

Why Ikigaikan?

Today, many of us are overwhelmed, burnt out, and disconnected. We measure ourselves by productivity, but yearn for peace. We scroll for hours, but feel more lonely. Ikigai reminds us to slow down, pause and seek what really matters. 

Ikigai-kan is not a hotel. It is not a workshop center. It’s a space to live the questions, and reconnect — with nature, culture, others, and yourself.

Kumi - Founder & Facilitator

Some of you know me as an orchestra manager with omoiyari (compassion), someone who brings creativity to food, upcycled instruments, and occasionally enjoys supping with my rabbit. My ikigai is centered around caring for others’ well-being. Now I’m combining my strengths and Japanese roots to bring you Nihongo-yoku — Japanese Language Bathing — in Rotterdam.

A woman with black hair expressing surprise or excitement, reaching toward a large, floating cinnamon stick against a dark background.
A woman wearing a traditional dark blue Japanese kimono is holding a katana sword with a black handle. She is standing indoors near beige curtains and a display with artwork or artifacts in the background.

Languages have always opened doors for me. Each one means new worlds, fresh connections, and endless possibilities. I have learned German through a radio course and watching synced films; Indonesian by living with a host family as an exchange student; Dutch through patient colleagues; French and Greek through playful language apps. For me, learning is always about the joy of connection.

A woman in a light pink kimono holding a pink flower bouquet sits indoors near a large plant.

I hold a teaching license in music for junior high and high school in Japan. With over twenty years of experience in tutoring Japanese and English, I’m committed to guiding learners at their own pace, with respect and encouragement.