Explore Japan Differently
— With a Guide Who Lives It

I was born and raised in the flat, windswept landscapes of the Netherlands, but from a young age, I felt a deep pull toward the Eastern world. As I grew older and learned more about Japan, that fascination only deepened—until it became clear that this was where I was meant to be. In 2008, I set foot on a journey that would shape my life forever — an adventure into the heart of Japan. A key part of that journey was learning the language, a skill I quickly came to appreciate as one that’s never truly mastered and always open to improvement. What started as a personal exploration soon became a lifelong passion for the language, nature, and cultural richness that make Japan so unique. But what I truly fell in love with? Sharing that magic with travelers.

My name is Sjaak (pronounced like “Shaak”), and I’m based in Nagano Prefecture — surrounded by the majestic Japanese Alps and endless hidden trails. Here in the countryside, far from the usual tourist routes, I’ve found the Japan many visitors never see.

As an experienced guide, I’ve had the privilege of leading travelers from around the world, including being the local guide in Japan for Vacation Races Global Adventures — an opportunity that deepened my passion for sharing Japan’s natural beauty and cultural richness with others.

Whether I’m trail running through quiet mountains, sitting with locals in centuries-old towns, or tracing ancient pilgrimage paths, I’m always searching for the stories that connect people to place. And I’d love to help you find your connection, too.

Please check out the rest of the website, and take that first step!