Country Manager & Director, The Sanctuary Japan

Max has lived in Japan for more than 25 years and now divides his time between Japan and Australia. He holds a degree in Japanese Studies from Griffith University and has completed training in Mindfulness and MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction).

An entrepreneur at heart, Max has founded and managed ventures across both countries, from executive search services in Japan to non-alcoholic health beverage manufacturing in Australia. His work reflects a passion for innovation, people, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Outside of his professional life, Max is an avid cyclist who enjoys riding through Japan’s mountains, snowboarding, hiking, as well as swimming and spending time at the beach.

At The Sanctuary Japan, Max brings together his cultural knowledge, entrepreneurial and consulting background, and dedication to mindfulness to help create an environment where international guests can reconnect, grow, and find renewal.

Psychotherapist / Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)

Yoriko Nishi is a bilingual psychotherapist (English / Japanese) with extensive international experience. She has worked with individuals in Japan, the US, and online, supporting people through emotional stress, anxiety, depression, and personal transitions.

In addition to her clinical work, Yoriko has supervised both licensed and unlicensed therapists for more than 14 years, guiding practitioners in developing ethical awareness, emotional sensitivity, and therapeutic skill.

Her approach combines mindfulness-based practice with evidence-informed methods such as cognitive-behavioral and family-systems frameworks, creating a grounded and compassionate space for exploration and growth. Yoriko’s calm, attuned presence allows clients to feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward with clarity and confidence.

At The Sanctuary Japan, she offers one-to-one therapy sessions that integrate mindfulness and emotional insight—helping guests reconnect with inner strength, restore equilibrium, and rediscover ease of mind.

Psychotherapist

Hunter Soileau, LMSW, is a US-trained psychotherapist and social worker offering a thoughtful, compassionate approach to personal growth and emotional wellbeing.

He specialises in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, identity exploration, and high-stress professional environments.

Drawing on training from Columbia University and experience in both clinical and educational settings, Hunter integrates modern psychological frameworks and evidence-based mindfulness practices to foster clarity, resilience, and self-understanding.

Originally from Louisiana, he first came to Japan through the JET Program and has developed a deep connection to Japanese culture.

Outside his practice, Hunter enjoys exploring Tokyo’s creative spaces, traveling, and live music.

Physiotherapist

Yuji Kitano is a physiotherapist passionate about helping people move better and recover from chronic pain, with a focus on lower back pain, sports injuries, and mobility.

He holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Physiotherapy from New Zealand and brings 13 years of clinical experience, along with over 20 years in the sports and recreation industry.

Born and raised in Japan, Yuji takes a holistic approach to physiotherapy—looking at the whole body and movement patterns to understand why pain occurs rather than simply treating symptoms.

Drawing from his karate practice, he integrates balance, alignment, and mindful movement into his work, always looking upstream to address the root cause of pain.

Outside the clinic, he enjoys surfing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, and relaxing with his cats.

Aikido Instructor

Shota Sugawara is an Aikido instructor dedicated to sharing mindful movement and Japanese culture with people of all ages. As head instructor of Aikido Mugenjuku in Tokyo and Kamakura, he has taught students from age four to eighty, guiding them to discover both strength and softness through practice.

With over 15 years of experience and a 3rd dan in Yoshinkan Aikido, Shota integrates traditional discipline with a modern, compassionate approach. His teaching emphasizes focusing on the body’s core while exploring both empty-hand and weapons techniques, helping students connect body and mind in everyday life. He has also led international workshops across Europe, Asia, and the U.S.

Outside the dojo, Shota enjoys surfing in Kamakura and spending time with his family.

Yoga Instructor and Herbalist

Ingrid began practicing Hatha yoga at a young age in her hometown just outside of Mexico City. This early interest led her to deepen her studies, training in Ashtanga and Iyengar yoga with recognized teachers of the time.

From 2009 to 2012, she lived in New York, where she studied dance and yoga. During this time, she was influenced by the city’s vibrant yoga community and exposed to diverse styles including Jivamukti, Power Yoga, Hatha, Iyengar, and Ashtanga.

In 2012, Ingrid moved to Japan, where she dedicated herself to teaching yoga in various studios including Flow Arts Yoga, Sugata, Nami Yoga Studio, Udaya, and Gypsea by Honey. In 2020, she discovered the tantric path, leading her to further her studies in Hatha Tantra and Kundalini, which she continues to practice today.

Yoga Instructor

Co-founder of Yoga Kuukan in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Tomer has been teaching internationally for over 20 years, offering classes, workshops, and retreats around the world. After studying in India, he completed his Anusara Yoga Teacher Training in Berlin and spent several years deepening his practice through workshops with renowned teachers from across the globe.

Over time, Tomer has developed his own unique style—an integration of yoga therapeutics, somatic movement, and precise alignment—shaped by his personal healing journey. His classes guide students deeply into body awareness and connection while maintaining a lighthearted and welcoming atmosphere.

Outside the yoga space, Tomer expresses his creativity as a DJ and music producer, and enjoys sharing his love of Middle Eastern cooking.

Qigong Instructor

Maika has been teaching Qigong for more than 12 years. Her journey with the practice deepened while living in Mexico, where sudden hearing loss and a surfing injury led her to embrace these ancient arts as pathways to healing and balance. She studied under Japanese Tai Chi master Umezawa and Tai Chi and Qigong master Kai in Thailand, and continues to learn from teachers around the world.

Now based in Kamakura after 15 years abroad, Maika offers bilingual (English / Japanese) Qigong for wellbeing classes. Her approach helps participants gently release the physical and emotional burdens carried through life, rediscovering balance and authenticity in daily living.

Beyond teaching, Maika runs the natural clothing brand Maika Handworks, creates Bengala mud-dyed pieces by hand, and enjoys ocean walks and the rhythm of seasonal living.

Massage Therapist / Bodywork Specialist

Based in Kamakura, Kanako Ikawa brings over 22 years of experience in bodywork, Chinese herbal oil massage, reflexology, and head spa treatments. Her work blends traditional techniques with an intuitive understanding of the body, helping guests release tension and restore natural balance.

Kanako’s treatments are known for being deeply relaxing, comfortable, and restorative—designed to support both physical recovery and emotional calm. She approaches each session with sensitivity and care, tailoring her touch to each person’s unique condition and rhythm.

Outside her practice, Kanako enjoys walking, yoga, and Zen meditation—practices that nurture her own sense of grounding and mindfulness, and inform the tranquil energy she brings to her work.

At The Sanctuary Japan, Kanako offers bodywork that reconnects guests to stillness, easing the body into a state of quiet healing and renewal.

Personal Trainer / Movement Specialist

Tatsuya “Lacey” is the founder and Head Trainer of LACE UP, a leading personal training studio in Tokyo. He is also an official Nike Trainer and official trainer for Aman Hotel.

He holds certifications in strength and conditioning, biomechanics, functional movement, and nutrition, including NESTA PFT, CFSC (Certified Functional Strength Coach), FRC (Functional Range Conditioning), TRX STC > C, JSA-CSTP (Manual Stretching), and Kinesis Certified Trainer.

Tatsuya’s approach emphasizes functional movement, posture, and mobility rather than aesthetics alone. By combining technical precision with a supportive and motivating style, he helps clients restore balance, enhance performance, and build sustainable strength for daily life.

Before establishing his career in fitness, Tatsuya spent more than 17 years working internationally as a professional fashion model. This experience refined his understanding of body awareness, discipline, and the connection between physical form and confidence—insights that continue to shape his training philosophy.

In addition to his fitness and coaching work, Tatsuya has a background as a semi-professional soccer player and currently plays for the Nike representative team in Japan. He also actively competes in amateur kickboxing and Muay Thai, bringing athletic discipline and competitive experience to his coaching practice.

At The Sanctuary Japan, Tatsuya guides guests through personalized, mindful movement sessions that strengthen both body and mind, fostering a sense of alignment, energy, and lasting wellbeing.

Chef – Japanese & Seasonal Cuisine

Yuka Yamasaki is the founder of Yuka’s Forest Kitchen, a Tokyo-based studio known for its healthy, seasonal approach to Japanese cooking. With extensive experience teaching internationally, she brings a deep understanding of traditional food culture, ingredient awareness, and the art of mindful preparation.

At The Sanctuary Japan, Yuka draws on her broad culinary background—including expertise in Shojin Ryori, the plant-based cuisine developed in Zen Buddhist temples—to create meals that are balanced, nourishing, and rooted in nature’s rhythm. Her cooking reflects both sensitivity and creativity, using fresh, often organic ingredients and natural seasonings to support wellbeing and connection.

Outside the kitchen, Yuka enjoys classical ballet, music, handicrafts, and traveling.

Private Chef / Culinary Consultant

Chef Mika brings nearly a decade of culinary experience shaped by world-class kitchens, luxury hospitality, and strategic roles in Food x Tech and culinary innovation. She specializes in bespoke private dining and high-end culinary experiences that combine precision, artistry, and a deep understanding of people.

Her work bridges Japanese seasonality, French and Japanese techniques, and global culinary intelligence—resulting in cuisine that feels both refined and personal. Each menu is crafted with intention, tailored to each client’s preferences, and designed to balance satisfaction, wellness, and authenticity.

Known for her calm leadership, discretion, and exacting standards, she has led private kitchens and exclusive events with seamless excellence. Whether curating an intimate dinner or overseeing long-term culinary programs, she approaches every project with thoughtful continuity, precision, and care.

Outside of work, Mika enjoys travel, long walks, biking, exploring new cultures through people and food, and spending time by the ocean—snorkeling or boating in open water.

Mindfulness & Meditation Instructor

Yasue Mitsunaga is a meditation and mindfulness instructor with nearly three decades of Raja Yoga Meditation practice. Her lifelong interest in the connection between mind, body, and spirit has shaped a teaching style that is both grounded and deeply compassionate.

Certified in Energy Release Technique (ERT) and qualified as a Certified Psychologist in Japan, Yasue integrates emotional awareness with intuitive, gentle guidance. She has also designed numerous creative workshops that naturally lead participants into meditation and inner stillness.

Having joined retreats in India, the UK, Australia, and other countries, she brings together Eastern wisdom and Japanese sensitivity—creating a serene space for genuine healing and wellbeing.

Vice Chairman - The Sanctuary World

Based in Victoria BC, David has enjoyed a 35+ year career in International Healthcare Management in major medical service lines, delivered on most continents. David has extensive operational connectivity and experience on a global scale. As a dedicated professional, he is used to delivering strong consistent results.

David is the co-founder of The Sanctuary World and The Sanctuary Vancouver Island. He is a Strategic Director with a remit to maintain the highest standard of ethics and quality and oversee the non-clinical aspects of our luxury healthcare delivery businesses.

Originally from Nottingham, England, he is a dual citizen of Canada and the UK, and divides his time operationally between the North American and European continents.

David and his wife have seven adult children and eleven grandchildren, and have lived in Canada for 27 years, in Montreal, Quebec, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario & Victoria, BC. They have also lived in Australia, the UAE and Spain. David’s interests outside of international business include travel, cinema, theatre, film production & crime-writing. He’s an ardent England TEST Cricket supporter and author of the ‘Oscar Phelps’ series of novels.  

CEO - The Sanctuary World
FACRRM, MBBS Hons (USyd), MA, BA Hons

The Sanctuary model of care has been refined over 18 years and Dr Walsh has the responsibility of ensuring that our exceptional treatment systems are available to clients across the variety of our beautiful settings.

Dr Walsh commenced his career in intensive care medicine. In 2010 he switched focus to community medicine and worked as a Senior Medical Officer for The Sanctuary Byron Bay until he took over the company in 2017. He co-founded The Sanctuary World in 2021 with the view to ensure that all of our clients have timely and accessible care, regardless of their cultural background or geographical location.

Rob gives back to his profession with multiple roles in Australian Medical Education. He has held the position of a Senior Lecturer for the University of Queensland School of Medicine, and is currently a Staff Specialist for NSW Health, a Senior Medical Educator for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, and is the National Medical Lead in Advanced Skills Training for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine.

Dr Walsh lives with his wife and three children on a certified organic avocado farm and enjoys maintaining a healthy lifestyle by surfing every sunrise, reading hardcopy books, and listening to a wide variety of music.