Akira

Travel information

I am currently

Activities i am interested in:

sauna, camping, hiking, nature observation, tour guide

Description

I currently work as a nature guide based in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
My tours are designed to help participants engage with nature through all five senses, with a special focus on moss plants.
I guide slow-paced walks that emphasize quiet observation and meaningful encounters with nature.
One highlight of my tours is a coffee break in the forest, where freshly ground coffee is brewed and enjoyed surrounded by trees.
In addition to my guiding work, I also take part in local volunteer activities for nature conservation in Hakone.
Through these projects, I help maintain forest trails, monitor invasive species, and support habitat protection efforts.
I place great value on offering a time of peace and stillness, away from the noise of city life.
Through my tours, I aim to help participants rediscover the joy of noticing the small wonders around them—such as the moss at their feet.
Why Finland?
I first became interested in Finnish nature and lifestyle when I learned about the country’s deep connection to forests and the way people live closely with nature in their daily lives.
A moss researcher once told me that “the forests of Finland are similar to those in the Kita-Yatsugatake Mountains in Japan.”
Since I have visited and studied the moss-rich forests of Kita-Yatsugatake many times, this sparked a deep curiosity in me.
I now wish to experience Finnish forests firsthand and compare their qualities through direct observation.
Key aspects that attract me to Finland include:
The types of moss species growing in the cool, humid climate and coniferous forests
The relationship between microhabitats (fallen logs, rocks, wetlands) and moss growth
Opportunities to visit moss research institutions or natural history museums, if available
Finland is also historically important in the field of bryology (moss research), having contributed significantly to the early foundations of the field.
This academic background is another reason I’m drawn to the country.
I also deeply admire the concept of Everyman’s Right, the legally protected freedom to access and enjoy nature.
This philosophy—treating nature not as a commodity but as a shared resource—resonates strongly with the core values of my guiding practice.
Moreover, I’m inspired by the Finnish cultural tradition of enjoying coffee in nature, which closely aligns with my own tour style.
Experiencing this culture in its native context will surely inspire new ideas for my work back in Japan.
Finally, I have recently started learning the Finnish language, as I believe understanding the language will help me connect more deeply with local people and the culture that values harmony with nature.

Interests

Movies & TV

Farming

Van life

Sustainability

Photography

Plant care

Languages

Gardening

Blogging

Books

Animals

Outdoor activities

Nature

Mountain

Hiking

Cycling

Camping

Languages

Languages spoken
Japanese: Fluent
English: Beginner

More details about my language interests
This workawayer has indicated that they would be interested in sharing their language(s) or learning a new language. You can contact them directly to discuss this.

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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Helping around the house

Charity Work

Art Projects

Helping with Computers/ Internet

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Some knowledge of:  

Gardening

Life at a Farmstay

Animal Care

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Able to teach about:  

Eco Projects

Hospitality/Tourism

More details about your skills

"I have a diverse professional background combining fieldwork, management, and nature guiding. Previously, I worked in a company managing vehicle dispatch and labor administration, which honed my organizational and problem-solving skills. I also worked with the Ministry of the Environment, conducting field surveys, repairing hiking trails, and organizing environmental events. In addition, I gained hands-on experience working at a flower shop, creating floral arrangements and handling fresh flowers. Currently, as a nature guide in Hakone, I lead forest tours focused on moss plants, where participants can enjoy freshly brewed coffee in the forest. I help them engage with nature safely and meaningfully. I bring practical field experience, administrative expertise, plant-handling skills, and a passion for creating memorable outdoor experiences, along with strong communication skills and adaptability."

Age

29

What else ...

In my free time, I enjoy activities that connect me with nature, such as hiking, camping, and observing plants. I also have a passion for coffee culture and often experiment with brewing methods. Additionally, I like playing board games that involve strategy and collaboration, which I find both fun and stimulating. These hobbies reflect my curiosity, patience, and enjoyment of shared experiences.

Some more information

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  Smoker

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  Driver's licence

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  Allergies

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  Special dietary requirements