"This illustration was drawn by a friend of mine who’s an amazing illustrator. Always laughing, with my signature triangle nose… they really captured my features, haha! No wonder kids adore me.

Currently, I work in tourism, guiding tours in my hometown (yes, in the heart of the countryside!).

I once ventured out to the city, eager to explore the wider world. My love for discovering new places led me to travel to over 30 countries, both for work and personal adventures. So, what made me return to my rural hometown of Nasushiobara, where even the locals often say, ‘There’s nothing here’? And why did I start working in tourism here?

Curious? I’d love for you to keep reading to find out!"

Let me digress a little—I’d like to share something that’s important for you to know.

Traveling through various countries, I’ve had all kinds of experiences. But what struck me the most was racial discrimination.
As an Asian, I’ve experienced being ignored in restaurants where no one came to take my order and taxis that wouldn’t stop for me. Discrimination didn’t just come from white people; I also faced it from Black individuals.

I had always known about these issues, but seeing them up close was a different story. Problems that once felt distant suddenly became deeply personal. I also witnessed other harsh realities like poverty and environmental issues—things that are hard to imagine in Japan.

Of course, there were plenty of joyful moments too. But…
The more I learned about the world, the more I realized that Nasushiobara—the place I once couldn’t wait to escape—was actually rich in nature, beautiful, and a place where I could find peace.

It was through these varied experiences that I discovered the true value of Nasushiobara.
There were other twists and turns along the way (I won’t go into those here, as it would take too long! (^_^;)
But eventually, I decided to take the leap and return to my hometown.

I’ve also published a book about my grandmother, who rode her bicycle all over Nasushiobara and lived life to the fullest until the age of 104. She was a truly unique character, different in her own special way.

I hope her remarkable journey can become one of the legends of Nasushiobara, making this place even more fascinating.

ーCurrent Activities 

Thank you for reading this far.

With my background, I now work as a lively guide, hosting walking tours, kids’ experiences, and parent-child activities.

As a child, I was dragged to mountains and rivers almost every weekend, which made me dislike nature walks. But now, here I am, making a career out of walking tours!

Nasushiobara is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, such as breathtaking gorges, hot springs loved by literary giants like Soseki, lands developed by Meiji Restoration pioneers, and areas with ties to the Imperial Family, like the former Imperial Villa. Plus, we have farms, fresh highland vegetables, and delicious local foods!

But when asked what the top attraction is, my guests often say, “It’s Ann-chan!” (^▽^;)

Using these rich resources, I offer a variety of parent-child experiences, from agriculture, art, and stargazing to fossil digging. My goal is to create as many opportunities for exploration as possible. These activities have been a hit not only with the kids but also with parents, leading to many repeat participants.

ーLiving Life Joyfully and Happily 

What I always think is that since we’re here in this world, we should make the most of it, fully enjoy it, and live happily.

But even when looking at the same thing, some people find it interesting and fun, while others don’t. How much you can find joy and excitement depends on your own eyes and your own heart—whether you have the ability to see and feel it.

And to cultivate that eye and heart, you need to see, feel, and experience lots of beautiful and fun things.

I warmly invite you to join Shiobara Viva’s delightful and fun tours and experiences. Come see beautiful things, find peace, and have intriguing adventures.

And if these experiences can become one of the colorful moments in your joyful life, that would make me so happy.

Thank you so much for reading to the end.