Tatsuji Nakashima

Yado Bar Director, and Expert Guide

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Tatsuji is the heart and soul of the Yado-Bar experience, combining his extensive knowledge of snow sports with a deep connection to the local Myoko terrain. As both owner and director of Yado-Bar, he has created a haven for travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture while experiencing world-class snowboarding and skiing.

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Why Tatsuji Stands Out

• Decades of Experience: Tatsuji is a seasoned expert in both snowboarding and skiing, with years spent mastering the slopes and backcountry of Myoko and beyond.

• Local Insight: Born and raised in the region, Tatsuji has an unparalleled understanding of the area’s resorts, sidecountry, and backcountry terrain. He knows the secret powder stashes and the safest, most thrilling routes to ensure a memorable adventure.

• Tailored Adventures: Tatsuji excels at customizing each day's itinerary to match your group’s skill level and preferences, making every outing unique and exciting.

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Your Guide from Dawn to Dusk

From breakfast at Yado-Bar to après-ski drinks in the cozy lounge, Tatsuji ensures every aspect of your stay is seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re carving through pristine powder or winding down with a story about the day’s adventures, his friendly demeanor and professionalism set the tone for an unforgettable experience.

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Passion for the Community

Tatsuji’s commitment goes beyond guiding. As a proud local, he collaborates with the Joetsu community to preserve the area’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Through Yado-Bar and the tours, he brings together tradition, adventure, and sustainability.

Fun Fact: Tatsuji’s knowledge of the region is so in-depth that he often jokes, “If it’s snow-covered and slopes down, I’ve probably ridden it first!”

Ross Butson

Guest Experience Coordinator and Support Guide

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With 24 years of living in Japan, Ross brings a wealth of experience and a deep appreciation for Japanese culture to the Hikarigahara Cat Tours team. Based in Chiba during the summer and Niigata during the winter, Ross ensures that every guest's experience is seamless, personalized, and memorable.

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Your Go-To for a Flawless Adventure

Ross is here to support the team and make sure everything runs smoothly from breakfast to dinner. Fluent in both English and Japanese, he acts as the bridge between international guests and the local team, ensuring clear communication and a stress-free experience.

• Guest Support: Whether it’s helping you gear up for the day’s adventure, offering advice on technique during cat tours, or checking in to ensure you're comfortable, Ross is always available to assist.

• Yado-Bar Host: After an exciting day on the slopes, Ross will help you unwind at the Yado-Bar, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere to relax and share stories of the day.

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Dedicated to Your Enjoyment

Ross’s mission is to go beyond offering just an exciting snowboarding or skiing experience. His goal is to make you feel at home in the rich, welcoming culture of Japan. From guiding you through thrilling snow adventures to ensuring your stay at the Yado-Bar is comfortable, Ross’s role is all about making every moment special.

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A Unique Perspective

Having lived in Japan for over two decades, Ross has a deep understanding of the country’s traditions and local culture. This insight, combined with his passion for snow sports, allows him to create an authentic and immersive experience that blends adventure with cultural discovery.

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Fun Fact:

Ross loves sharing his favorite hidden gems of the region and often jokes, "If you're not grinning from ear to ear after a day here, you haven't had the full Hikarigahara experience!"

'SAIKO"