At Shikoku Adventure, our guides are more than just experts—they’re passionate storytellers, local ambassadors, and your companions on the trail. Each of them brings a unique perspective, deep local knowledge, and a genuine love for sharing the beauty and culture of Shikoku.
English Guides
Fumiya Saito
About Me
Until 2020, I worked in an engineer at a manufacturing company. Driven by a desire to experience a broader world, I made the decision to travel to Canada during the pandemic—where I began my journey as a guide.
After returning to Japan, I eventually relocated to Kochi in Shikoku, a region I had long loved. Here, I resumed guiding and found myself deeply connected to the land. I’ve always enjoyed outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, so Shikoku’s rich natural environment felt like the perfect match.
Shikoku also offers a unique atmosphere and culture that can’t be found elsewhere in Japan—making it an inspiring place for newcomers like myself. I can confidently say that I’m now living the most fulfilling chapter of my life
Favorite Things in Shikoku
Without a doubt—it's the food. I still remember the first time I tasted seared bonito (katsuo no tataki) in Kochi and handmade udon in Kagawa. I was genuinely moved. I loved them so much that I would travel just to eat them again. Even now, after moving to Shikoku, I never get tired of these dishes. Every time I eat them, I’m reminded of just how delicious they are.
Kochi has a unique climate: plenty of rain, fertile soil, and surprisingly high sunshine hours. Maybe that’s why the vegetables here are incredibly fresh and flavorful—almost shockingly so. The quality of food in Shikoku is something even many Japanese people haven’t fully discovered.
If you come to Shikoku, I truly hope you’ll take the time to explore its local flavors.
Qualifications
Wilderness First Aid, certificated by Wilderness Medicine Training Center
First Aid & CPR/AED level C, certificated by Canadian Red Cross
Naoya Tsuji
About Me
I moved to Kochi, one of the prefectures on the Shikoku islands, in August 2025. Before that, I had been living in Nagoya, a large urban city.
I previously worked as an English teacher in Nagoya. While teaching was deeply rewarding, I came to realize that gaining more life experience would help me grow as an educator. This led me to embark on a new path—traveling through the beautiful, lesser-known region of Shikoku. I truly enjoy engaging with guests from diverse backgrounds and sharing memorable experiences together.
Another thing I love about this job is that we get to travel by bicycle. When I was studying abroad in Vancouver, Canada in 2022, I completely fell in love with cycling in nature. I’ll never forget the feeling of the wind on my face, the sense of unity with my friends, and how amazing food tasted after a long ride. Cycling showed me how wonderful simple moments can be. Through this job, I want to share that same sense of joy and excitement I once felt with people from all over the world here in Shikoku.
Favorite Things in Shikoku
I really love the Shikoku Karst. Having a picnic on the grassy plateau at the top is the best — the air is so fresh, and coffee and bread taste incredible there.
Qualifications
Wilderness First Aid, certificated by Wilderness Medicine Training Center
Spanish Guides
Masao Osagawa
About Me
Until age 30, I worked as a businessman in Tokyo. Then I backpacked through Central and South America, immersing myself in the Latin world for the next 15 years.
After that, I rediscovered the beauty of my homeland and moved to Shikoku Island. I am the father of two boys, the husband of a lovely wife, and your guide to Shikoku.
Favorite Things in Shikoku
I love everything about Shikoku—its nature, its food, its culture.
But what I love most is its pure and kind people.
Qualifications
JCTA Cycling Guide
Leave No Trace L1 instructor
Spanish - Japanease interpreter
Travel Management Officer