Guiding You Beyond the Guidebook
Jonathan: My Journey, Your Adventure
My name is Jonathan, founder of RoninEagle. When I first explored Japan, I wasn’t drawn to the neon glow of the big cities. I was called by something wilder. The unique energy of Kyushu, where lush mountains crash into the sea under a warm, southern sky.
As an avid sportsman, I saw travelers leaving without ever feeling the spray of a hidden waterfall or the quiet awe of a wind-swept coastal ridge. The standard tourist trail was missing the very soul of the country I had fallen in love with.
I founded RoninEagle for a simple reason: to share that discovery. To offer something different, far from the crowds, for travelers who seek the authentic pulse of Japan.
The name RoninEagle reflects this vision: the freedom and perspective of an eagle soaring above Japan’s diverse landscapes, combined with the independent, authentic spirit of a Ronin. That’s why I’ve personally hand picked a team of the best local, English speaking guides in the country. They are not just certified professionals, they are passionate locals who share my vision. Our mission, and my personal promise, is to guide you to those once in a lifetime moments that you’ll still be talking about for years to come. That’s the real Japan we want to share with you.
Masako
Born in Hokkaido and raised in Kanagawa, Masako grew up between themountains and the sea. Her background in competitive sailing gave her aunique specialty. The traditional skill of drawing weather maps, whichshe now uses to ensure safety in the high peaks. What began as hikingwith her children evolved into a lifelong calling, leading her to summitall 100 Famous Mountains of Japan solo.
Today, she focuses on Mount Fujiand the Southern Alps, combining a navigator's precision with years ofmountain experience to guide guests through the heart of Yamanashi.
Credentials: Certified JMGA Stage II Mountain & Volcanic Navigator.
Specialization: High-exposure ridge deployments & real-time meteorological tracking.
Operational Horizon: Mt. Fuji Skyline Sectors, Mt. Mitsutoge, and Mt. Akadake headwalls.
Meet Your Expert Guides
Masako
Born in Hokkaido and raised in Kanagawa, Masako grew up between the mountains and the sea. Her background in competitive sailing gave her a unique specialty. The traditional skill of drawing weather maps, which she now uses to ensure safety in the high peaks. What began as hiking with her children evolved into a lifelong calling, leading her to summit all 100 Famous Mountains of Japan solo.
Today, she focuses on Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps, combining a navigator's precision with years of mountain experience to guide guests through the heart of Yamanashi.
Simon
Originally from Ireland and based in Japan since 2003, Simon has spent over two decades exploring and mastering the Japanese highlands. His expertise was built on the solid foundation of traditional Japanese Alpine club training, where he honed the technical skills of lead climbing, winter mountaineering, and ice climbing.
As an accredited guide, he specializes in taking guests beyond the predictable trails, designing bespoke expeditions tailored to technical ambition. His mission is to reveal the raw, hidden side of Japan’s wilderness, combining two decades of mountain wisdom with a quiet, absolute dedication to safety.
Taro
Deeply rooted in Japan’s northern frontier, Taro commands an unparalleled mastery over Hokkaido’s most vast and isolated wilderness. Certified as a Japan Mountain Guide Association (JMGA) Stage II Specialist and a registered Hokkaido Outdoor Guide.
Taro’s approach navigates away from standard tourist tracks toward private, adrenaline-inducing sub-alpine territories. Driven by a profound reverence for Hokkaido's wild ecosystems and ancestral Ainu heritage, his missions provide a secure, deeply immersive passage into the pristine soul of the North.
The RoninEagle Philosophy
Expert & English-Speaking Guides
Our guides are not just certified local professionals. They speak fluent English. From your first inquiry to the final farewell, our entire team provides full support for a seamless, stress free adventure.
Intimate, Small Groups
We keep our groups tiny (max 2 participants). This means a safer more personal experience, less waiting around, and more time for real adventure and connection.
Truly Off the Path
Forget the crowded tourist traps. We specialize in curating unique, visceral adventures in Japan's wildest and most beautiful untouched corners.
Our Philosophy: Adventure with Integrity
Every RoninEagle expedition is built on three unwavering values:
Authenticity: Real Japan, far from the crowds.
Safety: Your well being is our absolute priority.
Sustainability: Respecting and preserving Japan’s natural heritage.
Join the RoninEagle experience and discover the Japan you’ve always dreamed of Wild, Authentic, and Truly Unforgettable.