Today we’d like to introduce you to Yoko.
Hi Yoko, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Japan and moved to the US to attend University and improve my English speaking skills. Although we walk a lot in Japan, in general, most of our youth is spent on organized excursions and studies. There was a nearby 400-year-old castle as well as a huge lake that I frequented. In the US, after college, I started working and living in the LA area. The diversity of California and LA in particular, drew me to the outdoor activities. I fit the stereotype of a Japanese person that loves to take pictures. I guess I take after my father. It is so surprising to see the mountains, trails, desert, winter rains and ocean views, and even waterfalls easily accessible in a large city such as LA. After collecting and sharing some interesting photos, my friends encouraged me to post them on Instagram. I sincerely appreciate the feedback from my followers which inspires me to find the next great spot. I try to go the extra mile to find spectacular ocean views, greenery, shady hikes, and other unique spots in the LA area.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think most of my challenges are typical of most people, juggling work, family, and personal time. Of course, as an immigrant, where English is not my native language, there was certainly that extra set of obstacles. Technically keeping up with Instagram changes is a challenge since I am not a technical person and I try to respond to every comment on my post so it is challenging to find the time to complete this.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
For the past 15 years, I have had various positions working with students in the local school district here in LA County. As a teacher, I have taught math to middle school students and I have also taught Japanese to middle, high school, and university students. I have also worked as an aide to special needs children and as a volunteer for various after-school activities.
As a content creator, I love to showcase the beautiful outdoors in So Cal and inspire people to get outside and experience nature. I love it when someone says, “I live only 10 minutes from there and didn’t know it existed!”
I am also proud, as an Ambassador for Keep Nature Wild where we promote and participate in teaming up to pick up trash in various natural spots.
I think what sets me apart is that along with the beautiful pictures and reels, I add trail details, location, and difficulty level so people can choose the appropriate hikes I have recommended.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Well, risk must be defined in the eye of the beholder! I am certainly risk-averse by nature, but do find myself pushing my boundaries of risk. For example, I have a fear of heights but many of my hikes transverse steep, narrow ridges or short vertical climbs. In these cases, “don’t look down” is continuously muttered under my breath as I complete that stretch. I try to stay in my zone of distance, altitude, weather, time of day, etc, to not get into a situation where I’ve overdone it and require medical attention or worse, a mountain rescue.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hikingwithsun
