Aika san

Aika, could you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Aika and I come from Japan. I like to create calm, joyful and meaningful moments through service, culture and intercultural exchange.

You worked as a VIP guide and cultural interpreter at the Japan Pavilion during the Osaka World Expo. What did this experience bring you?
Working at the Japan Pavilion taught me how powerful small details can be. I grasped the essence of omotenashi: anticipating unspoken needs, quickly adapting to diverse expectations, and sharing Japanese values in a natural and welcoming way, especially with international VIP guests. Even in the most intense moments, I learned to remain calm and responsible for the experience I was providing.

How does this experience influence your way of working today at ThéRâPie?
She made me very attentive to atmosphere and intention. At ThéRâPie, I focus not only on what guests see or taste, but on how they feel: comfortable, respected, and gently pampered from the moment they arrive. I also place great importance on my tone of voice and my presence, so that guests can slow down and relax, even after a busy day.

As a Japanese person, what does it mean to you to represent Japanese culture here in Luxembourg?
For me, this means expressing Japanese culture through actions rather than words: discreet attentiveness, respect for personal space, and genuine, natural, and thoughtful hospitality. I love discovering the different ways people perceive the world. Every interaction teaches me something new, and I enjoy finding common ground while respecting those differences. I also like to share what daily life in Japan is like—my local culture, my favorite foods, little personal anecdotes—so that people can immerse themselves more deeply in this culture.

Since you joined ThéRâPie, what has been your favorite moment so far?
The moments when guests visibly relax—when their posture softens or a peaceful smile appears on their face. These small changes tell me they feel safe and present, and that makes me happy. I also love it when guests leave satisfied, saying they'll visit me in Osaka someday, or that they can't wait to explore Japan. And when someone walks in by chance, falls in love with the place, and immediately books their next visit… that means the world to me.

If you had to describe ThéRâPie in one word, what would it be?
和 “WA” – Harmony.

Is there a detail you pay particular attention to, even if it is subtle?
Create an atmosphere of relaxation, tranquility and peace.
When the restaurant is busy, I can sometimes feel the pressure, but I try to refocus so that customers continue to feel comfortable. I also observe my colleagues—when they're busy or need help—because helping each other allows everyone, including our guests, to have a better experience. We aren't perfect, and we don't need to be. I like the idea of wabi-sabi: finding beauty in imperfection and complementing one another.