About Us
Ryugaku Sommelier Inc.
International Education & Global Career Strategy Firm
Overview
Ryugaku Sommelier Inc. is a Tokyo-based consulting firm specializing in international education strategy, industry–academia collaboration, and global career development.
Unlike traditional study abroad agencies, we do not arrange individual placements.
Instead, we function as a strategic bridge connecting universities, governments, industry partners, and international education stakeholders across Japan and overseas.
With more than 20 years of experience in international education and cross-border marketing, we design sustainable frameworks that support institutional partnerships, student mobility ecosystems, and global career pathways.
What We Do
• International education strategy consulting
• Japan market development for overseas institutions
• Industry–Academia–Government collaboration projects
• Global career education initiatives (“Global Job Hunting” project)
• Study abroad awareness and policy dialogue
• Lectures, keynote speeches, and thought leadership
Our Mission
Enrich Lives and Communities through Global Learning.
We believe international education is not simply mobility.
It is a long-term social investment — strengthening communities, connecting regions globally, and empowering individuals to build meaningful cross-border careers.
Location
Address: #942 Win Aoyama, 2-2-15 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
107-0062, Japan
Tel: +81-50-3716-3660
Meet Consultant
Shoichi Okawa
CEO, Ryugaku Sommelier Inc.
Cross-Border Education Strategist
Global Career Strategy Consultant
E-mail: info@ryugakusommelier.com
Shoichi Okawa is a recognized leader in Japan’s international education sector, known for bridging global education strategy, institutional development, and career design.
In addition to leading Ryugaku Sommelier Inc., he serves as:
• Executive Secretary, Japan Association of Overseas Studies (JAOS)
• Board Officer, Japan Association of Certified Study Abroad Counselors (JACSAC)
• Visiting Professor, Professional University of Information and Management for Innovation (iU)
• Visiting Lecturer, Harajuku AIA High School
• Visiting Professor, Cebu Business English Academy
He collaborates with international government organizations including the British Council, Austrade, and Education New Zealand, as well as Japanese local governments and universities on strategic international education initiatives.
Shoichi is a contributor to Japan’s major business media outlet Toyo Keizai Online and author of:
• Your Passport to a Global Career
• My Recommendation for Adult Study Abroad
• Global Job Hunting & Career Strategy
His work focuses on developing globally competitive talent and designing education systems that connect Japan with the world.
