Happy July 4th!

Independence Day is always the most vibrant, high-energy time of the year in America. But this year, 2026, feels incredibly profound as we celebrate a historic milestone: America’s 250th Semiquincentennial Anniversary.

Watching the spectacular parades, seeing the streets come alive in red, white, and blue, and looking up at Old Glory waving proudly against the summer sky, my heart filled with deep emotion. At that very moment, I found myself thinking of a truly remarkable man—my beloved mentor, Tatsuichi Itezono, who sadly passed away in Los Angeles this past April.

“HITOHATAKAI”—A Legacy of Gratitude to America

Mr. Itezono moved from Japan to the United States in the 1970s and achieved incredible success as a small business entrepreneur. In the Los Angeles Japanese-American community, he was a living legend—everyone knew him, and everyone respected him deeply. When I first arrived in the U.S., clueless and eager, he was the one who taught me the true essence of business and the mindset needed to thrive in this country.

He founded a business network called “HITOHATAKAI” (一旗会).

In Japanese, the phrase Hito-hata ageru means “to raise your own flag of success.” For us as Japanese immigrants, it meant working hard to plant our own flags of achievement in an unfamiliar land. However, Mr. Itezono’s ultimate philosophy went far beyond personal success. He always looked at what came after the achievement, frequently reminding us:

“Once you succeed in your business, give back to America. Contribute to the country that gave you a chance.”

He believed in showing ultimate gratitude to this beautiful nation through our work. Today, many Japanese business leaders across the U.S. continue to thrive while fiercely honoring his spirit—what we call the Itezono “IZM.” I am incredibly proud to be one of them.

My Way of “Giving Back” on this 250th Milestone

Standing under the fireworks on this 250th Independence Day, I asked myself: How can I best contribute to this wonderful country that has taken such good care of me?

The answer is clear, and it is the lifelong mission I have embraced: To match incredible American men with wonderful Japanese women, helping you build happy, lasting marriages.

As a matchmaker and the founder of TJM, serving as a bridge between our two cultures and bringing warm, loving new families into American communities is my ultimate way of giving back to this country.

Why a Japanese Woman is the Perfect Partner for You

Right now in Japan, there are countless brilliant, highly educated women with fantastic careers and incredible talents. Unfortunately, due to Japan’s traditional social structures and corporate environments, their hard work and career ambitions are often underappreciated.

My deepest wish is for these exceptional women to experience the open, liberating culture of America—and to meet men like you.

American men have a wonderful, progressive mindset. You genuinely respect a woman’s individual abilities, celebrate her independent career, and encourage her personal growth.

“Sometimes, you have to leave home to discover who you truly can be.”

By stepping into a new life in America with a partner like you, these women not only rediscover and appreciate the unique beauty of their own Japanese heritage, but they also experience a beautiful awakening: “Wow, I never knew I possessed this much potential!”

These amazing women are ready to break free from old societal constraints, blossom to their fullest potential, and they are looking for a supportive partner like you to walk beside them.

Creating a Beautiful Circle of Giving

The lifestyle you have built and the warm, open heart you possess will be the ultimate platform for a Japanese partner to open new doors in her life. In return, her deep devotion, gentle care, and affection will enrich your life in ways you never thought possible.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. As these women find their footing and thrive in their new home, they, too, will begin to give back to American society in their own unique ways. It becomes a beautiful, continuous circle of contribution and love.

Carrying the spirit of “giving back” passed down to me by Mr. Itezono, I am fully committed to pouring my heart into guiding and supporting American men who are serious about finding a lifetime partner from Japan.

Are you ready to take that exciting first step?

Have a fantastic, safe, and joyful Independence Day weekend!

Wishing you a wonderful July 4th weekend!

Naoko Matsumoto (まつもとなおこ）
FOUNDER & CEO
Traditional Japanese Matchmaker

Traditional Japanese Matchmaker is the best dating and matchmaking service that is specialized for single international professionals and Japanese women established in 1999. Please click the link below to get started with TJM’s Free Registration if you are truly interested. We look forward to assisting you in finding your Japanese wife.

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