Bio
In my early 20s, an obsession with snowboarding brought me to New Zealand where I learned English while working as a snowboard instructor. This is also where I discovered my love of hiking, and I spent time working as a guide in Fiordland National Park & Mount Aspiring National Park. After coming back to Japan in 2010, I settled in Nagano’s Nozawa Onsen Village. Home of Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, it’s a great place for anyone who loves Japow (Japanese endless powder snow! ), cozy hot springs and the outdoors. I worked as a Ski Patrol, Rafting Guide and Trekking Guide around the area all year around. From this base, I started my own company in 2019. Since then I take clients on hiking, cycling and snowshoeing adventures in the outdoors, as well as walking tours around the atmospheric village.
Message
We select the best location according to the time of year, fitness levels, and the needs of our guests, so that everyone can experience the beauty of Japan's four seasons. We offer a mix of activities that do not require special skills–such as hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter– to make sure you will experience something extraordinary. We also offer private tours that can be discussed with you from the very beginning. Past clients say that Taka is a guide you’ll feel comfortable around right from the start. As you travel around, Taka will talk endlessly about the names of the plants, the local topography and history of the area while giving you laughs along the way. He’s a guide that makes the experience as enjoyable as possible for his clients while keeping their safety in mind.
Guide Q&A
Q: What is your most memorable experience in nature?
I love all the snow activities, such beautiful experiences in the world of white. The most memorable one was when I made my own snow cave to stay in for the first time. It was warmer than staying in the tent and very cozy, and that time at sunrise everything turned pink.
Q: What does nature represent to you?
The one always right next me, the one always there.
Q: What has nature taught you?
Everything, especially the unforgivable severity and the finest rewards, like spectacular views and the sense of accomplishment.
Q: What do you hope that people will get out of experiences with you as a guide?
We hope that each of you will feel what you can feel by slowly and deliberately placing yourself in nature. We strive to be a stepping stone to such an experience.
Highlights
・ Japan Mountain guide association: Trekking Guide Stage 2 ・ Japan Avalanche Network: Avalanche Operation level 1 ・ Oze National Park Certified Mountain Guide ・ Shin-Etsu Trail Certified Guide ・ Wilderness Medical Associates Japan: Advanced First Aid course 40hs ・ Leave No Trace Japan: Trainer ・ NZSIA Snowboard Instructor Level 2, Free Style Coach and Alpine Ski Instructor Level 1 ・ Languages: Japanese, English
