Welcome! I’m Chris W. Gladden—a freelance tour guide, translator, writer, and the creator of this website. I’ve lived here in Nagano Prefecture for over two decades, including seven years in Otaki Village. Currently, I’m based in Matsumoto, a historic castle town at the foot of the Northern Japanese Alps where I live with my wife and 2-year-old daughter Hana.
I’ve been leading regional walking tours since 2017, including on the Ontake Pilgrimage Trail and the Kisoji, the historic Nakasendo trail through the Kiso Valley.
My unique approach is informed by the cross-cultural outlook of my anthropology studies, extensive travels, long familiarity with the local culture, and years of mindfulness practice. My tours bridge the traditional and the modern, placing the sights and landscapes along the way in a living context. Especially in Otaki, this involves encounters with the land’s spiritual traditions. For those interested, walking the Pilgrimage Trail also offers opportunities for deeper experience through periods of mindful walking, shinrinyoku (forest bathing), or the ancient tradition of takigyo (waterfall meditation). Rather than a cookie-cutter approach, I work with clients to tailor tours to their interests and itineraries.
Make the pilgrimage to Otaki, and let me help you experience the heart of the region for yourself.
“Thank you again, for sharing your knowledge with us. You are a first-rate, well organized guide. Our day with you on Mt. Ontake was the highlight of our trip to Japan. To others considering Chris as their guide: Just do it.
You won’t regret it.”
Vivian T. and Pat R. — MD, USA
Profile photo by Yuki Koshi
Otaki Experience 