About Your Guide

Guided by curiosity. Shaped by nature. Inspired by life.

The Heart Behind Yakushima Essence

Nature has always been a source of wonder, comfort, and inspiration in my life.

Here on Yakushima, there's something extraordinary waiting to be discovered everywhere, from ancient forests and crystal-clear rivers to the tiniest flowers growing among the moss.

A shaft of sunlight through the trees. The scent of the forest after rain. The laughter that comes from an unexpected discovery.

Sometimes, the smallest moments become the most precious memories.

Over the years, life has taught me that everyone experiences the world differently.

As a mother of three, including children with disabilities, and through the experience of welcoming my father, who is blind and uses a wheelchair, to Yakushima, I've come to appreciate the many different ways people experience nature, happiness, and freedom.

I've also faced challenges of my own, and nature has often helped me breathe more freely, find comfort, and rediscover the simple joy of being alive.

These experiences inspired me to create Yakushima Essence.

I wanted to share the wonders of this island with people of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds, creating opportunities for each person to connect with nature in a meaningful way.

Whether you're an adventurous explorer, someone who finds long hikes challenging, or simply curious about the natural world, there's so much here to discover.

More than photographs or memories of beautiful places, I hope you'll take home little moments of wonder that stay with you long after your journey ends.

And perhaps, those little discoveries will inspire you to notice more of the beauty in everyday life, wherever you are.

Meet Satono

Hello, I'm Satono Yamazaki, founder and nature guide of Yakushima Essence.

Originally from Tokyo, I moved to Yakushima in 2011, drawn by the island's extraordinary natural beauty.

Before becoming a guide, I worked as a professional wedding photographer, capturing meaningful moments in people's lives.

My love of food and cooking has also been an important part of my journey.

Over the years, I've worked as a sightseeing bus guide and an English-speaking nature guide, welcoming travelers from around the world.

Photography, food, nature, and human connection may seem like different passions, but to me, they belong together.

They're all ways of discovering beauty, sharing joy, and celebrating life.

I love swimming in Yakushima's clear rivers, exploring forests, watching sunrises and sunsets, cooking with seasonal ingredients, dancing, and discovering the little wonders of the natural world.

And I love sharing those moments with others.

A Journey with Heart

For me, guiding is about much more than showing visitors beautiful places.

It's about sharing stories, following curiosity, noticing the unexpected, and enjoying the moments that make each journey unique.

Some days bring adventure and excitement. Others invite quiet reflection, laughter, or simply the pleasure of being surrounded by nature.

Every experience is thoughtfully created with care, flexibility, and respect for each guest's interests and needs.

I hope your time on Yakushima becomes a collection of memories that bring a smile to your face long after you've returned home.

Let's discover the wonders of Yakushima together!

Harmonize You with Nature.

Satono Yamazaki
Founder & Nature Guide
Yakushima Essence

Experience & Qualifications

Professional Background

Yakushima nature guide and English-speaking tour guide
Former sightseeing bus guide, Yakushima
Professional wedding photographer, formerly contracted with Fujifilm
Founder of Treetops Guesthouse, Yakushima
Licensed cook, photographer, and creative experience designer

Training & Certifications

Advanced Lifesaving Course, Japan (2024)
Deep Forest Bathing Guide, Introductory Level (2023)
Japanese Red Cross First Aid Rescuer (2020, 2025)
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (2019)
Licensed Cook, Japan (2004)
PADI Advanced Open Water & Rescue Diver (2002)

Private experiences available in English and Japanese.

Advance booking is required. Tours are generally available on weekdays. Please contact me to discuss special arrangements.

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