“International protocol is an indispensable discipline and strategic asset in today’s global landscape—both for organisations and individuals.”
— Mirei Cecilia Hakuba (née Mari Murata), Principal, ICPA
The International Protocol and Etiquette Academy of Japan – ICPA of Japan – ICPA (operated by ICPA International Protocol Co. Ltd, Tokyo; Principal: Mirei Cecilia Hakuba (née Mari Murata)), had the honour of delivering a tailored International Protocol training programme to the executive leadership of Toyoda TRIKE Corporation (President: Misasa Toyoda, Vice President: Hiroyuki Toyoda) and Asia Development Capital Corporation (President: Ansem Wong).
Toyoda TRIKE Corporation, a distinguished enterprise founded by a member of the Toyoda family—descendants of the founders of Toyota Motor Corporation—is an independent entity distinct from Toyota Motor Corporation itself.
- Internationally Recognised Expertise
- The Initiative: From Inquiry to Agreement
- Programme Structure & Executive Focus
- Day One: A Thoughtful Beginning
- Days Two to Five: Deepening Understanding
- Notable Transformation
- Application in China: A Testament to Impact
- The Discipline of Continued Learning
- Testimonials from Participants
- In Closing
- Corporate Enquiries & Training Opportunities
Internationally Recognised Expertise
ICPA is the only institution in Japan accredited by the prestigious Leading Etiquette and Protocol Schools of the World, a global consortium of the foremost protocol academies. Among its members are institutions founded by those who served the British Royal Household and trained royal and state-level guests.
The Initiative: From Inquiry to Agreement
The initial contact came through a general enquiry for an online consultation. However, upon recognising the strategic importance of the upcoming China business engagement for Toyoda TRIKE, we swiftly prepared a customised training proposal and arranged an in-person meeting.
President Ansem Wong, an accomplished global executive, outlined clear objectives. The agreement was concluded the very next day, and the training programme was scheduled with urgency and precision to accommodate Vice President Toyoda’s upcoming international obligations.
At ICPA, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver bespoke training programmes tailored to the schedules, expectations, and needs of executive clients.
Programme Structure & Executive Focus
Our executive and corporate courses are typically structured into 30, 60, or 120-hour modules. This programme was delivered over a condensed yet highly immersive schedule. Core topics included:
- Foundations of international protocol
- Executive presence and behaviour (with live filming)
- Global dress code and formal wear protocols
- Cross-cultural etiquette and international manners
- Professional body language for global contexts
- Diplomatic protocol and full-course dining etiquette (filmed)
- Global executive image development
- Guest reception and hosting with grace and authority
Day One: A Thoughtful Beginning
The first session opened with remarks from Principal Mirei Cecilia Hakuba (née Mari Murata):
“True learning begins the moment one recognises there is more to know.
The illusion of ‘knowing enough’ hinders development.
In the global arena, the most respected leaders are not those who claim to know everything, but those who carry the humility to continue learning.
Choosing to attend this programme is already a decisive step towards greater growth.”
Days Two to Five: Deepening Understanding
The subsequent sessions bridged theory and practical refinement, encompassing:
- Contrasts between Japanese and international cultural frameworks
- Psychology of greetings, handshakes, introductions
- Seating hierarchies and their diplomatic significance
- European and American etiquette: strategic nuances
- Formal dining: positioning, conversation, posture, and toasting rituals
- The science behind non-verbal cues in executive environments
Participants attended in formal attire and engaged in role-playing, reflective dialogue, and filmed exercises to capture their professional evolution.
“In both diplomacy and business, the dining table is a space for observation, negotiation, and alliance-building.
One must never presume that one’s own cultural norms will be the default.”
Notable Transformation
Over the course of the training, subtle yet unmistakable transformations were observed. Participants’ demeanour, tone, posture, and presence became increasingly polished, self-aware, and internationally aligned.
This transformation is visibly evident in their closing interviews:
Application in China: A Testament to Impact
Soon after completing the training, the executives departed for China with minimal belongings and maximum readiness. They were welcomed by the Chinese government with fireworks, music, lion dancing, and ceremonial honours.
They reported feeling completely confident in their behaviour, posture, greetings, and executive presence—testament to the immediate and practical impact of the training.
“Now I understand why each gesture matters—and how to apply it with intention.”
The Discipline of Continued Learning
International protocol is not something one masters in a single session. Like all disciplines of character and refinement, it requires consistent reinforcement and professional feedback.
“Three years of intentional practice is the benchmark for true behavioural transformation.
Books and online resources alone cannot convey the nuance, context, or ethos behind international protocol.
It is not simply about what to do, but why—and that understanding is cultivated through guided experience.”
Testimonials from Participants
“Without Ms Murata’s guidance, I would never have reached this level.”
“She is unlike any other coach—she truly transforms you.”
In Closing
Authenticity and elegance are essential traits for modern executives.
ICPA’s training programmes are meticulously designed to cultivate both. We provide the cultural intelligence, interpersonal acumen, and executive comportment necessary to navigate global leadership with distinction.
Corporate Enquiries & Training Opportunities
ICPA offers corporate protocol training, instructor certification, and executive coaching in international protocol both in Japan and abroad.
For details on tailored courses, trial sessions, or consultations, please contact us:
▶︎ Corporate Training – ICPA
📩 contact@icpa-in.com
We welcome enquiries from individuals and organisations who value global standards and executive excellence.
