Welcome to Kyoto

Akiko Otani Administrative Coordinator, CIEE Kyoto

Konnichiwa (Hello in Japanese)! My name is Akiko Otani, and I’m an Administrative Coordinator at CIEE Kyoto. Originally from Tokyo, I moved to Kyoto 10 years ago and have since come to truly appreciate the balance of urban and rural life that this beautiful city offers.

My journey in international exchange began with a transformative Working Holiday experience in Canada during my college years. A Working Holiday is a unique opportunity that allows young people to travel and work in another country for an extended period; typically to support their travels while gaining cultural and professional experience. This experience shaped who I am today and sparked my passion for connecting people from different cultures.

Before joining CIEE, I worked as a Program Coordinator for human resource development programs in developing countries that were organized by the Japanese government and private foundations. Through this role, I had the privilege of working with people from all over the world, and I’m fortunate to still keep in touch with many of them.

In my free time, I love traveling, reading, watching movies and anime, playing games, and practicing traditional Japanese tea ceremony (which I started learning during my time in Kyoto).

I’m excited to work at CIEE because I’m eager to support students in enriching their global perspective through study abroad experiences, just as mine enriched my life when I was a student.

I look forward to welcoming you to Kyoto, and feel free to speak to me in Japanese if you happen to find me in the office!