I started Samurai Tours 17 years ago, a tour operator providing small group tours of Japan. I have personally led hundreds of tours to all corners of Japan, including tours affected by natural disasters. Owned and operated a business and lived in Japan for 15 years. Worked with numerous special interest groups creating specialized tours to fit their interests and preferences. Manage staff and operations at our Denver, Kyoto and Tokyo offices. It has been my goal from the beginning to create itineraries that are well-balanced, educational and culturally broadening that inspire and inform, and to provide unique Japanese experiences not possible with other tour groups. And most importantly, it has been my goal from the beginning to create a fun atmosphere on our tours. While at the same time, breaking down barriers to the Japanese people and Japanese culture, providing as much cultural immersion as possible. I don't get a chance to lead as many tour groups today as I would like to, but I still do it because I enjoy it. And it keeps my hand in the day-to-day operations allowing me to design meaningful itineraries. Living in Japan also allows me to personally meet with many of our tour groups where I am able to get face-to-face, first-hand feedback. This feedback has proven to be extremely useful to improving our itineraries.