# my ibasho — Complete Site Content

> English and Japanese speakers learning together — through real conversation, not textbooks. Find your place to belong.

## Founder Story
On the last day of elementary school, my life changed.

My father told me "we are moving to America." I was 13 years old and I didn't speak any English. Keeping up with classes while learning a completely new language was incredibly hard.

But that wasn't the hardest part. The hardest part was that I had no one to talk to.

Years later, I became a language teacher teaching both Japanese and English. And I realized something: learning a language shouldn't feel lonely. It should be something shared with others.

This is where my ibasho 🌱 began.

A place where language learners from around the world can connect, support each other, and stay motivated through real conversations.

I hope this becomes your ibasho— a place where you truly belong😊

## What We Offer
- 💬 Community on Discord: More than just a chat. Share your dreams, your struggles, and the little things you love. Find your people—your ibasho. 🌱 (24/7 ACCESS)
- 🌍 Monthly Global Event: Once a month, we bring everyone together. Half Japanese speakers, half learners. Connect, talk, and experience real conversations— online or in-person events in Japan. Free for all members. (1× / MONTH · FREE)
- 🗣 30/30 Speaking Sessions: Twice a month on Discord. 30 minutes in Japanese. 30 minutes in English. Practice with native speakers, follow guided topics or just talk freely— and feel confident speaking. (2× / MONTH)
- 🌱 Create your own "my ibasho map": Share your favorite places—from hidden spots in your country to gems in Japan. Together, we create a one-of-a-kind map of memories and dreams. (MEMBER PERK)

All included: All included · $15 / month · Cancel anytime

## Pricing
- Price: $15/mo
- Your first 30 days are completely free
- Cancel anytime. No long-term commitment.

Features included:
- 🌱 2 x monthly speaking sessions (JP & EN)
- 🌱 Access to supportive Discord community
- 🌱 Monthly international Zoom events

## Member Testimonials
- David (Europe): "My Ibasho offers the great opportunity to already speak and practice with native speakers while being abroad. It is also a great place for having authentic conversations and cultural exchange to plan and prepare for the next trip."
- Jevaughn (International): "I love my ibasho! You're doing great Miyuki saaaann! It's authentic and slowly opening up to be a safe haven for those interested in building an integrated community! This community has a looot of potential. I'm excited!"
- Aika (JP): "This is a great community to connect with native speakers of Japanese, English, and other languages from around the world. You can join events or chat anytime, which makes it easy to stay connected. I'm excited to meet everyone at future offline events!"
- Miwa (JP): "I'm really enjoying everything at my ibasho community! Everyone is so kind, friendly, and warm. I love my ibasho! Let's enjoy it together!"
- Miku (JP): "It's really fun because you can connect with people living in different countries and chat casually with them! I highly recommend it for anyone who wants more opportunities to practice speaking English and Japanese! ✨"

## Frequently Asked Questions (English)
Q: Is there a fee to join?
A: $15/month after a 30-day free trial. You can cancel anytime — no commitment, no pressure. If pricing ever changes, I'll always let you know first.

Q: Do I need to be fluent?
A: Not at all. You don't need to be good at Japanese to join — you just need to want to try. The group is small, so you'll feel supported, not judged.

Q: Is attendance mandatory?
A: It's not required. But since we're a small group, showing up regularly makes a real difference — for you and for everyone. Just let me know if you can't make it.

Q: Can non-native English speakers join as the "international" side?
A: Absolutely. We welcome people from every country. You don't need to be a native English speaker — if you want to connect and learn, you belong here.

## よくある質問 (Japanese)
Q: 参加するのにお金はかかりますか？
A: 30日間の無料トライアル後、月額¥2,200です。いつでも解約できます。料金が変わる場合は、必ず事前にお知らせします😊

Q: 英語がペラペラじゃないとダメですか？
A: 全然そんなことないです！どんなレベルでも大歓迎。少人数だから、安心してチャレンジできますよ☺️

Q: 毎回参加しないといけませんか？
A: 必須ではありませんが、少人数のコミュニティなので、できるだけ参加してもらえると嬉しいです。お休みするときは教えてくださいね🌱

Q: 英語ネイティブじゃなくても「外国人側」として参加できますか？
A: もちろん！どの国の方でも大歓迎です。英語ネイティブでなくても、インターナショナルメンバーとして参加できますよ✨

## How to Join
1. Fill out the form: Your name, your language, and why you want to learn.
2. Get your Discord invite: I'll message you personally.
3. Join the Zoom and Discord calls: Monthly event, relaxed small group.
4. Connect and grow together: Regular practice, real progress.

## Links
- Website: https://myibasho.com
- Japanese: https://myibasho.com/jp
- Instagram (EN): https://instagram.com/miyuki_solotraveling
- Instagram (JP): https://instagram.com/miyuki.sensei.japan