Richard Smith (Richard)

Growing up on the Isles of Scilly in the Atlantic ocean, Richard had freedom to explore the outdoors from a young age. Initially following a career on the ocean teaching sailing for eight years, he traded the sea for the mountains, ending up in Hokkaido after two years in the Canadian Rockies. Originally planning on spending one winter here, he got hooked by endless opportunities for learning and exploring. The next five years were spent chasing winter between Japan and New Zealand ski patrolling and ski guiding, whilst also picking up Japanese along the way and fitting backpacking and bike touring trips in between winter seasons. Richard is now back in Japan (with his Hokkaido born wife) year round, working and playing in the Daisetsuzan National Park. He is looking forward to helping visitors connect with Hokkaido and the people who call it home.