“Inaka” means countryside or rural in Japanese.

Imagine setting foot on land that’s less explored. Imagine the gradients of color, smell of the forest, and sound of rushing water.  Like a John Lennon song. Just imagine.

Around 2015, I was still living in Los Angeles at the time and got hooked on fly fishing. I was soon browsing the internet and came across a very niche group of Japanese fishermen who would hike deep into the canyons of Northeast Japan to fish and feast around bonfires in total solitude, immersed in the wilderness. I realized there were very few guides or let alone information about these places. I spent countless hours at my local coffee shop, researching how I was going to guide people to these hidden gems (I had no prior photography skills).

Then Co-vid hit. My efforts came to an abrupt halt. Fast forward to 2023, I resumed my “little project”, taking as many pictures as possible and experiencing first-hand all that the land has to offer. And now, it’s here.

I’ve put together two sample itineraries. One for everyone to enjoy the outdoors and Japanese tradition. Another for the avid fly fisherman.

Every time I visit this place, I get the same feelings of discovery. I’m sure you will too.