English interpreters in Japan may often be regarded as those who convert English into Japanese or vice versa. However, Mutsumi Katayama, who has worked for more than 20 years as a freelance professional interpreter, focuses more attention on interpersonal communication.
"I ask people questions to understand them," Katayama said. "I want to work for them knowing their backgrounds, what led them to Japan, and what they want to bring back home."
Such a working style has been established through each single job she encountered, including many tours and international conferences.