Since 2006, I have been a resident of Shiretoko, a place I now call home. My career spans over a decade in the travel industry, where I specialized in organizing trips to remote regions including Nepal, Tibet, Mongolia, Peru, and Antarctica. This role at a travel company that catered to niche destinations honed my ability to understand and fulfill the unique desires of travelers seeking less-trodden paths.

For 14 years, I worked in wildlife management, focusing particularly on brown bears, and in the management of national parks through my role at the Shiretoko Nature Foundation. My involvement extended to regional branding and product development with the Shiretoko Shari Association for four years, where I contributed to enhancing the local identity and economy.

An avid adventurer, I have actively participated in winter mountain and backcountry sking across Hokkaido and globally. A notable highlight of my adventures includes being the first Japanese to ski down from the summit of Cho Oyu in the Himalayas in 2000.

Earlier in my career, while working at a travel agency, I encountered clients who were hesitant about visiting lesser-known destinations like Nepal and Mongolia. They were concerned about the obscurity of these places but returned as enthusiastic proponents of the regions. This experience taught me the immense value of excellent service—it's about turning visitors into passionate advocates for the places they explore. I believe that the heart of this transformation often lies in the hands of the local guides whose warm welcomes make a profound impact.

Motivated by a deep-seated appreciation for Japan, I chose to settle in Shiretoko, my favorite place, aiming to promote and celebrate the beauty of Japan just as passionately as I cherished remote corners of the world during my travels.