What does Shizen mean?
Shizen usually translates to “nature.” But there’s a difference from the English word. Shizen includes us, the humans. It’s everything from the cosmos to the inner core. We’re part of it.
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In a dictionary of ancient Japanese, shizen is also defined as spontaneity, and unexpected situations that we can’t influence. Things happening by chance.
The word is made of two characters, 自, meaning “by itself” and 然, meaning “to make it so.”
We think of the moments in this world in which we become ourselves. We want to help you find those moments, here in Japan.
meet the team
Ako
travel specialist
A Tokyo native who for 20 years has designed unique experiences for travelers who want to explore deep culture and outdoor adventure. She curates itineraries for individuals, groups, and media crews. A skier and snowboarder with a background in art history, Ako is the mother of two teenage boys intent on finding the best places for riding, exploring, and understanding Japan.