Nichika Kudo

My name is Nichika Kudo, and I am originally from Japan. I am currently studying at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. I am developing a tourism concept focused on attracting international travelers to lesser-known rural areas in Japan, especially the Sobo, Katamuki, and Okue mountain region (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve). While many visitors travel to major cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, I believe there is strong potential in connecting international travelers with Japan’s untouched nature, local culture, and authentic regional communities. My goal is to create accessible and well-designed travel experiences that make rural destinations easier to discover, understand, and visit — even for first-time visitors to Japan. Within Boost Your Business, I focus on validating my assumptions through Lean Canvas and Test Cards, building a scalable model, and exploring how digital storytelling and clear logistics can reduce barriers for international tourists. I aim to contribute to sustainable regional development while creating meaningful travel experiences that connect people, culture, and nature.