Local Supporter Makoto Yamazaki

Local Supporter

Makoto Yamazaki

Musasabi Danshi

A person in their 30s who loves people's smiles and giant flying squirrels. After joining Picchio, they were moved by seeing a giant flying squirrel glide for the first time. Since then, they have witnessed that sight countless times while leading the "Flying Squirrel Watching" tour, yet every time, they still cheer "Wow!" in their heart.
During their student days, they were active as a soccer goalkeeper. The skills they acquired as a keeper—"speaking up loudly" and "keeping an eye on the whole field"—are useful in their work as a nature observation guide. They are always energetic, positive, and humble.

Picchio: A group of ecotourism experts based in Karuizawa that conducts research, studies, and conservation activities for wild animals and plants, as well as eco-tours and environmental education. By conveying the fun, wonder, and irreplaceability of the forest, we aim to increase the economic value of the forest and preserve it for future generations in its natural state.

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Local Supporter FAQ

What are your recommendations for the Karuizawa area (places, experiences, gourmet food)?: This is a trek up Mt. Ko-Asama. Although the one-way journey takes less than an hour, you can see Mt. Asama, the symbol of Karuizawa, right in front of you. Below, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the town of Karuizawa. It is the best spot to easily experience the magnificence of Karuizawa's nature.

Please secretly tell us some hidden gems that only a local would know.: This is Hocchi in the Minami-Karuizawa area. The traditional rural landscape of Karuizawa spreads out here. It is also a hidden gem of a photo spot where you can capture the full view of Mt. Asama. I visit with my friends and family every season to enjoy taking photos from various angles.

Who did you travel with and where did you go last year?: I went to Okinawa with my family of four, taking my 1-year-old and 2-year-old sons. I thought the children would be most excited about the whale sharks at the Churaumi Aquarium, but it seems the Yanbaru forest jungle exploration left the biggest impression on them. I felt that my nature observation guide blood had been passed down to them.

How do you spend your days off?: What I enjoy most right now is walking through the forests and mountains near our home with my sons, discovering nuts and living creatures together. Actually, despite being the son of a nature observation guide, my eldest son hates bugs. I am currently devising a plan to make him like them.

Is there anything you always bring with you when you travel?: These are binoculars for finding living creatures. I always carry them with me on trips, whether to the sea or the mountains, so they have become a part of my body.
They are also excellent for reading distant signs when you get lost.